Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term history of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's growing fibers. When hair is trimmed close to the scalp, it can offer an approximate three-month detection timeline for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to manipulation, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising about 200 hair strands (akin to a #2 pencil in thickness) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplemental tests, and analyses exceeding ten panels, 150mg is advised. It is suggested to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount from body hair can be obtained. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary stages in the lab processing of drug test outcomes: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves incorporating a sample into the laboratory system. This step checks that the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completes any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial swift assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening require secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than with other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.
Positive screening results must undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation if needed. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often termed as "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair Testing vs. Urine Testing in Roanoke, IN
Hair follicle testing emerges superior due to its vast detection capabilities, spanning up to three months. Unlike urine tests, which offer shorter detection windows, hair testing provides a more comprehensive view of substance history, offering assurance of accuracy and reducing the likelihood of false negatives.
Extended Detection in Roanoke, IN
For employers seeking an extensive view of employee compliance, hair follicle testing in Roanoke is ideal. It can detect drug use over a prolonged period of up to 90 days, offering valuable insights into potential issues. This long-term perspective aids in making informed hiring and retention decisions, fostering a safe work environment.
Resistant to Tampering in Roanoke, IN
One major advantage of hair follicle testing is its resilience to adulteration. Unlike urine samples, which can be manipulated, hair tests offer reliable results that stand up to scrutiny. This robust testing method reduces the risk of deceit, ensuring unquestionable integrity in results, crucial for upholding workplace standards.
Convenient Testing Locations in Roanoke, IN
With a network of testing centers nationwide, Accredited Drug Testing makes access to hair follicle testing stress-free in Roanoke. Our local facilities are easily reachable, facilitating quick and efficient service. This convenience ensures that testing is not a hindrance but a seamless part of maintaining workplace standards.
Simple and Confidential in Roanoke, IN
Our process in Roanoke is streamlined and respectful of privacy, providing an effortless way to order, conduct, and receive hair follicle test results. We uphold strict confidentiality, catering to individual and corporate needs, ensuring peace of mind throughout the testing experience.
Affordable and Fast in Roanoke, IN
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing and swift turnaround for hair follicle testing in Roanoke. Our cost-effective solutions provide exceptional value, ensuring companies of all sizes can protect their interests efficiently without financial strain.
Precision and Speed in Roanoke, IN
Hair follicle drug tests in Roanoke offer both precision and rapid results, ensuring an accurate detection of substance use. The method is highly effective, catering to those who prioritize reliability and quick feedback. With this advanced testing, you get clear insights promptly, minimizing waiting times and enhancing decision-making.
Employer Peace of Mind in Roanoke, IN
By incorporating hair follicle testing, Roanoke employers can ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method not only mitigates legal risks but also promotes a safer and more productive work environment, providing employers with the confidence that their workforce adheres to stringent standards.
