Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a robust method for detecting alcohol and drug consumption. It offers an extended history of drug and alcohol intake by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's fibers as it grows. When hair is collected near the scalp, it provides a detection window of up to about 3 months for alcohol and other drugs. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 strands (resembling the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, an ideal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG or more extensive tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for accurate weighing is recommended. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair may be collected. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. The term body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Key stages in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage where a sample is processed into the laboratory system. This includes verifying the sample's seal and shipment, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing data entry omitted by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves a preliminary inspection for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method for negating drug usage in most samples, confirming a positive screen is essential for court admissibility. Any samples that test presumptively positive in the Screening stage necessitate additional confirmation.
For samples testing positive in the Screening phase, additional hair from the original specimen is processed for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from the hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug screening is particularly challenging.
Positive screening confirmations are performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptively positive samples are washed preceding confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lafayette, IN
Hair testing offers unmatched benefits over traditional urine screenings. Its ability to detect substances over an extended period provides superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which only trace recent use, hair tests deliver a comprehensive view, making it difficult for individuals to mask their substance history. This reliability aids in enforcing stringent drug-free policies effectively.
Extended Detection Window in Lafayette, IN
The hair follicle drug test offers a significant advantage with its prolonged detection window, typically up to 90 days. This ensures that employers have a thorough understanding of an applicant's or employee's substance usage history. Such extensive monitoring allows for a better evaluation of long-term behavior, crucial for maintaining a drug-free workplace, fostering safety, and making informed hiring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lafayette, IN
Hair follicle testing stands out with its resistance to sample tampering. Its robust method and direct observation during collection make it exceedingly challenging to adulterate samples. This reliability guarantees that results are trustworthy and beyond question, providing companies with confidence in their drug testing outcomes. The decreased risk of manipulation ensures integrity and accuracy in monitoring substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lafayette, IN
Our network of testing centers provides unparalleled convenience nationwide, including in Lafayette, IN. Access to our services is swift and straightforward no matter your location. This ease of service delivery ensures that drug testing is hassle-free, catering to the needs of businesses and individuals efficiently, and eliminating any potential delay in obtaining necessary testing results.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lafayette, IN
The process of hair follicle testing is designed to be seamless and discreet. Ordering, undergoing the test, and receiving results are managed with utmost confidentiality, addressing concerns around privacy. This ease of use ensures that individuals can undergo the testing process without stress, fostering trust with employers who prioritize both accuracy and the privacy needs of their employees.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lafayette, IN
Our hair follicle testing service offers competitive pricing and quick result turnaround, providing a compelling value for businesses of all sizes. The efficient processing and reporting ensure that companies receive reliable results without delay, contributing to a well-managed and swift assessment process. This affordability paired with speed boosts employer assurance and operational continuity.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lafayette, IN
The hair follicle drug test is renowned for delivering speedy and highly precise results. With its remarkable capability to detect substance use, this method far exceeds expectations in terms of dependability. Employers and individuals alike trust its high accuracy, ensuring that any signs of drug use are accurately identified. This level of precision aids in maintaining a transparent and safe work environment.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lafayette, IN
By incorporating hair follicle testing, employers can assure compliance with workplace drug-free initiatives. This method diminishes legal risks and fosters a safer working environment. Companies benefit from peace of mind, knowing that they are upholding rigorous standards, safeguarding their workforce, and minimizing incidents related to substance abuse that might threaten workplace safety and productivity.
