Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair sample analysis has emerged as a notable method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair preserves a prolonged record of substances by incorporating biomarkers within its strands as they grow. When procured near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to three months for alcohol and other substances. It is easy to gather, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (approximately pencil-width size) nearest the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal amount for analysis and validation. For EtG, additional layers, and/or assessments beyond ten panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. It is advised to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If head hair is lacking, an equivalent volume of body hair may be used. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other categories (e.g., facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key phases in laboratory processing of drug test outcomes include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails initial integration of the specimen within the lab’s system. This step ensures the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concludes any supplementary data input not managed by an electronic chain of custody framework.
Screening executes a preliminary rapid examination for drugs. While Screening cost-effectively excludes drug use in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation for legal validity. All presumptively positive Screening samples demand secondary confirmation.
If a sample shows a positive presumption during Screening, additional hair is collected from the sample for Extraction. During this procedure, drugs are isolated from hair at notably lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or saliva), contributing to the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive Screening findings is conducted through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples preliminarily deemed positive undergo washing prior to confirmation, as required. The comprehensive lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand and not the follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Dana, IN
Hair testing offers several advantages over traditional urine tests, particularly in detection accuracy and reliability. While urine tests can identify recent drug use, hair tests provide a longer detection window, capturing a more comprehensive snapshot of an individual's drug history. This makes them a superior choice for ongoing monitoring.
Extended Detection Window in Dana, IN
The ability to detect drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days, is a standout feature of hair follicle testing. This method provides employers with a thorough understanding of an individual's drug history, offering insight that urine tests cannot match. By analyzing hair samples, businesses gain a clear, historical perspective on substance use.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Dana, IN
Hair follicle tests significantly mitigate the risk of sample adulteration. The process of collecting and testing hair samples ensures that results remain untampered and credible, providing employers with firm, undeniable findings. This makes hair testing a reliable option, enforcing its value in sensitive environments where integrity is paramount.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Dana, IN
Our broad network of nationwide testing centers ensures that accessing drug testing services is straightforward and hassle-free. These conveniently located sites enable quick and easy testing processes for clients everywhere, including those in Dana, IN, streamlining the experience for any necessary drug or alcohol test.
Simple, Confidential Process in Dana, IN
We guarantee a straightforward and secure testing process. Ordering, taking the test, and receiving results are all managed with a focus on confidentiality, addressing privacy concerns and ensuring ease of use. This simplicity is critical to maintain client trust and ensure a smooth operation.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Dana, IN
We offer competitive pricing structures along with fast turnaround times, making our services an excellent value for companies of any size. Our efficient processes ensure that you get your results swiftly, providing peace of mind while maintaining budget-friendly options.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Dana, IN
Hair follicle drug tests offer robust results with high precision and speed. Their advanced detection method accurately identifies substance use, thus providing trustworthy insights. Speedy processing ensures that results are delivered promptly, enabling quick response times for employers and other stakeholders involved in the testing process.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Dana, IN
Utilizing hair follicle testing aids employers in adhering to drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces legal risks by ensuring compliance and by promoting a safer workplace atmosphere. Employers gain reassurance from a system that supports their commitment to maintaining a drug-free environment efficiently.
