Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. This method offers a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug usage by capturing biomarkers in hair fibers as they grow. When gathered near the scalp, the hair sample can reveal drug and alcohol use for up to roughly three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, provides 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG add-ons or tests exceeding 10 panels, it is advised to collect 150mg. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for accurate weighing of the sample. If scalp hair is not present, a similar quantity of body hair may be obtained. "Head hair" specifically pertains to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types of hair (such as facial and underarm).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the laboratory assessment of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial incorporation of a sample into a lab’s system. This step verifies that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any further data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary and rapid check for substance abuse. Although Screening provides an economical approach to eliminate drug use for most samples, a positive screen demands confirmation to be court-admissible. Samples flagged as presumptively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
In instances of presumptive positive results during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations than alternative methods (e.g., urine or saliva), highlighting the complexity of hair drug testing.
Confirmation of a positive screen result is done through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are washed before confirmation as necessary. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests," the actual analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Laconia, IN
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, it's clear that hair tests offer superior detection accuracy. Unlike urine tests, hair tests can detect drug use over a much longer period, providing a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance history.
Employers in Laconia value hair testing for its reliability. While urine tests can miss recent drug use, hair tests reveal patterns, reducing the likelihood of false negatives and serving as a robust tool for maintaining workplace safety.
Extended Detection Window in Laconia, IN
Hair follicle testing provides a significant advantage with its extended detection window, capturing drug use history for up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a deeper understanding of an individual's past behaviors related to substances.
By examining a longer period, hair follicle testing helps employers make informed staffing decisions, ensuring that employees embody the standards and safety protocols of their workplace. This comprehensive overview aids in fostering a reliable workforce.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Laconia, IN
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration, a common issue with other testing methods. The observed collection process ensures the integrity of the sample, providing reliable and unquestionable results.
As a tamper-resistant method, hair testing offers Laconia businesses peace of mind. The robustness of the procedure eliminates room for manipulation, safeguarding the reliability of results, which is crucial for upholding strict workplace drug policies.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Laconia, IN
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenience with numerous testing centers nationwide, including locations in Laconia. This network ensures easy access, providing fast and hassle-free testing services to meet diverse needs.
Whether in Laconia or beyond, our testing centers are strategically placed for your convenience. This widespread availability ensures that drug testing is both accessible and efficient, streamlining the process for employers and individuals alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Laconia, IN
The hair follicle testing process is simple and confidential, ensuring privacy and ease of use. Ordering a test, completing the process, and receiving results are designed to be straightforward.
Laconia residents can trust in the secure handling of their data. Our process respects confidentiality and simplicity, allowing individuals and employers to navigate the testing experience smoothly. This assurance helps ease any concerns about privacy and disclosure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Laconia, IN
Accredited Drug Testing is committed to providing competitive pricing and fast turnaround times for hair follicle tests. Our affordable rates ensure excellent value for companies of all sizes.
Businesses in Laconia can take advantage of our cost-effective pricing without compromising on quality. The rapid turnaround for results means companies can maintain productivity, making hair testing a cost-effective choice for substantiating drug-free workplace policies.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Laconia, IN
Hair follicle drug tests in Laconia provide fast and accurate results, crucial for efficient decision-making. These tests are renowned for their precision in detecting substance use, offering a reliable metric for determining an individual's substance use patterns.
Employers benefit from the quick turnaround times associated with hair testing, allowing them to make prompt and informed decisions. The process balances speed and accuracy, helping businesses maintain their operational continuity.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Laconia, IN
By utilizing hair follicle testing, employers ensure compliance with workplace drug-free policies, mitigating legal risks. Hair testing supports a safer workplace, reducing exposure to substance-related incidents.
Maintaining a drug-free environment is paramount for employers. Hair testing provides not only compliance but also peace of mind, enhancing workplace safety and operational efficiency while safeguarding both employees and the organization.
