Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly acknowledged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-lasting record of drug and alcohol markers by embedding them in the fibers of the developing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer up to a three-month detection window for alcohol and other substances. It is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of around 200 hair strands (roughly matching the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For tests beyond 10 panels, EtG, or additional analyses, 150mg of the sample is preferable. We advise using a jeweler's scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, a similar quantity of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses all other types of hair (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four core steps in processing a drug test result in a lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the introductory step of incorporating a sample into the lab's system. This phase includes ensuring the sample was properly sealed and transported, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any outstanding data not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary evaluation for drugs of abuse. While Screening is an economical means to rule out drug use for most samples, a positive screen must be verified to be accepted in legal settings. Samples testing positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
If a sample tests positive at the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are withdrawn from hair at much lower levels than in other methods (like urine or oral fluid), highlighting the challenges of hair drug screening.
Positive screening results are validated through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed to be positive are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: While commonly called "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on the hair strand rather than the hair follicle under the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in St. Bernice, IN
Hair follicle testing stands out against traditional urine tests, primarily due to its superior detection capabilities. Unlike urine tests, which offer a shorter detection window, hair tests can identify drug usage over a more extended period. This accuracy provides a more reliable assessment, making hair testing the preferred method for employers and professionals maintaining drug-free environments.
Extended Detection Window in St. Bernice, IN
Employers value hair follicle testing for its extended detection window, covering up to 90 days of possible drug use. This extended range allows for a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use history. By adopting hair follicle testing, companies can make informed decisions based on a wider snapshot of an applicant or employee's behavior over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in St. Bernice, IN
Hair follicle tests are designed to resist tampering, significantly decreasing the risk of adulterated samples. These tests deliver results that are trusted and difficult to manipulate, providing employers and organizations with confidence in their testing outcomes. The reliability of hair follicle tests lies in their tamper-resistant nature, ensuring that results reflect true substance use history.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in St. Bernice, IN
Accredited Drug Testing provides access to hassle-free testing through numerous centers nationwide, including those in St. Bernice. This convenience ensures that individuals and businesses can effortlessly access drug testing facilities without delays, maintaining a streamlined and efficient testing experience for all parties involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in St. Bernice, IN
The process for hair follicle drug testing is straightforward and confidential, from ordering to results. This simplicity, paired with privacy assurances, addresses any concerns about ease of use and confidentiality. The discreet nature of the process reassures participants that their privacy is a priority, making the entire experience worry-free.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in St. Bernice, IN
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing structures that provide excellent value, ensuring that companies of all sizes can afford to maintain drug-free workplaces. Coupled with quick turnaround times, hair follicle tests not only save money but also provide rapid results, facilitating timely decision-making processes for employers throughout St. Bernice.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in St. Bernice, IN
Hair follicle drug tests are unmatched in providing swift and precise results. This method of testing ensures high accuracy in identifying substance use, offering peace of mind to organizations and individuals alike. The reliability and speed of these tests make them a superior choice when assessing an individual's history of substance use, ensuring that important decisions are based on factual data.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in St. Bernice, IN
With hair follicle testing, businesses can ensure compliance with stringent drug-free policy regulations, reducing legal liabilities and enhancing workplace safety. This method not only aligns with policy requirements but also fosters a safe environment for all employees, giving employers peace of mind with regard to drug use among their workforce.
