Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It offers an extended timeline of substance use by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to around three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches comprising roughly 200 strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) from the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for both initial testing and verification. However, for EtG, additional substances, and/or testing beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. The specimen should preferably be weighed using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be collected, an equivalent measure of body hair may be used. When we mention head hair, we are specifically referring to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (including facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary stages in the laboratory analysis of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial sample processing into a lab’s system. It involves ensuring the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, generating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data input that isn’t provided by an electronic custody chain system.
Screening constitutes a preliminary examination for abused drugs. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method for excluding drug use in most cases, any positive screenings must be confirmed to be valid in legal contexts. Therefore, samples with presumptively positive results in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If the Screening phase results in a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. During this step, drugs are extracted from hair in significantly lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most challenging approach to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All samples that test presumptive positive are washed before confirmation as necessary. The full lab process from Accessioning through to Confirmation is subject to review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation in accordance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is done on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Fish Lake, IN
Hair testing stands out against traditional urine analysis by providing a superior detection period and greater reliability. A significant advantage is its longevity, offering reports on substance use for up to 90 days, unmatched by urine tests. This thorough accuracy establishes it as the optimal choice for those requiring consistent results, safeguarding against falsification.
Extended Detection Window in Fish Lake, IN
Hair follicle testing offers an unparalleled advantage with its ability to track drug use over extended periods, generally up to 90 days. This extensive detection timeframe ensures employers have a thorough understanding of a candidate's history of substance use. This superior detection helps create a safer, more informed workforce in Fish Lake, enhancing policy compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Fish Lake, IN
Hair follicle tests present a major leap in reducing risk and ensuring the integrity of drug tests. The nature of the testing process significantly minimizes the likelihood of sample tampering. This robust method bolsters confidence in results, assuring all involved parties of their reliability and accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Fish Lake, IN
Accredited Drug Testing ensures accessibility with its extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including local facilities in Fish Lake. This broad reach allows for fast, straightforward testing services, making compliance with drug standards convenient for all participants.
Simple, Confidential Process in Fish Lake, IN
Ordering, administering, and receiving hair follicle test results are made seamless and confidential. Focused on protecting individual privacy, this testing process is straightforward, providing assurance while maintaining ease of use. This dedication to confidentiality supports the comfort of all individuals involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Fish Lake, IN
Offering competitive pricing and swift result delivery, hair follicle testing ensures value for organizations of varying sizes. Accredited Drug Testing remains committed to delivering efficient, cost-effective solutions that enhance decision-making processes, based on fast and accurate drug use evaluations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Fish Lake, IN
The hair follicle drug test excels in precision and speed, making it the preferred choice in substance detection. Its capability to quickly and accurately identify drugs in a subject enhances its reputation in Fish Lake. By offering fast results, this testing method effectively addresses the pressing needs for reliable substance use confirmation, supporting both individual and organizational testing requirements.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Fish Lake, IN
Utilizing hair follicle testing equips employers with essential tools to maintain adherence to drug-free workplace policies. By mitigating legal risks and securing workplace well-being, these tests offer peace of mind and foster a safe working environment, vital for effective business operations and employee welfare.
