Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair strands capture a historical record of drug use by embedding biomarkers within their fibers. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can reveal drug and alcohol use over a period of up to three months. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.
Collecting a 1.5-inch hair sample of approximately 200 strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg, which is optimal for testing. For testing EtG, additional panels, or more than 10-panel tests, 150mg is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is suggested for weighing. If scalp hair is not available, body hair in similar amounts can be used. The term "head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four crucial steps in the lab processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the entry phase where a sample is registered into a lab's framework. This step includes checking proper sealing and shipping, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any data gaps not covered by electronic systems.
Screening is an initial rapid evaluation for drug presence. Though Screening is an efficient method to exclude drug use in most cases, results indicating possible drug use require Confirmation for legal validity. Samples testing presumptively positive in Screening need a follow-up Confirmation.
A sample testing presumptively positive during Screening undergoes further Examination; additional hair is drawn from the original sample for Extraction. This phase isolates drugs from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other testing methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing particularly challenging.
Positive results identified in Screening undergo Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Every presumptive positive sample receives a wash before Confirmation if needed. Each step, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is performed under the monitoring of the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and meets ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being called "hair follicle tests," the examination involves the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Urbana, IN
Comparing hair follicle and urine tests shows clear advantages of hair testing due to its superior accuracy and reliability. Hair tests identify substance use with more precision than traditional urine tests, making them more favorable in Urbana, IN.
Extended Detection Window in Urbana, IN
Hair follicle testing can reveal drug use over an extended period of up to 90 days, offering a broader view of an individual's substance history. This extended window benefits Urbana, IN employers seeking a comprehensive analysis of applicants and employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Urbana, IN
Hair follicle tests are inherently tamper-resistant, which significantly reduces the likelihood of sample adulteration. This provides Urbana, IN, with reliable and unquestionable drug test results, ensuring the integrity of the process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Urbana, IN
With our extensive network of testing centers nationwide, including locations in Urbana, IN, accessing drug testing services is quick, easy, and hassle-free for everyone.
Simple, Confidential Process in Urbana, IN
The process for ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential, addressing concerns about privacy and simplicity for Urbana, IN, residents.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Urbana, IN
We offer competitive pricing along with swift turnaround times, delivering excellent value to companies throughout Urbana, IN, regardless of size, and ensuring peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Urbana, IN
Hair follicle drug testing offers remarkably precise results in a timely manner. The high accuracy of these tests in identifying substance use provides Urbana, IN, employers with the confidence required for maintaining a safe work environment.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Urbana, IN
Hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks and creating a safer work environment in Urbana, IN, ultimately granting employers peace of mind.
