Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a chronological record of substance use by encasing biomarkers within the hair shaft's developing fibers. When cut close to the scalp, hair can offer approximately a 3-month detection window for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect hair samples, they are relatively challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches containing around 200 strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of a sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair is not accessible, a comparable quantity of body hair may be collected. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair denotes all other types (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages of lab processing for a drug test result encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into a lab's system, confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs an initial rapid assessment for drug use. This step is an economical method to exclude drug use on most samples; however, a positive screening must be verified to be court-admissible. Presumptively positive samples during Screening require further confirmation.
If a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the primary specimen and readied for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at notably lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most complex methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome involves GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples are washed as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards for accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair shaft, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rubio, IA
Hair follicle testing provides unmatched detection accuracy and reliability compared to urine tests. Its ability to identify drug use over an extended period sets it apart from more traditional methods. With its superior detection capabilities, hair testing offers comprehensive insights into substance use, crucial for employers aiming for a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Rubio, IA
Hair follicle testing reveals drug use over a significantly longer duration, up to 90 days, which offers a detailed perspective on an individual's substance history. Employers in Rubio, IA, gain a broader understanding of past drug use, contributing to more informed hiring decisions and promoting long-term workplace safety.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rubio, IA
One of the biggest advantages of hair follicle tests is their resistance to tampering. Unlike other testing methods, hair samples are incredibly difficult to adulterate, ensuring that employers in Rubio, IA, receive robust and unequivocal testing outcomes, thereby safeguarding the integrity of their drug testing program.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rubio, IA
Accredited Drug Testing provides testing centers nationwide, ensuring convenience for individuals in Rubio, IA. With easy access to testing facilities, clients can experience hassle-free, quick testing services designed to meet their needs efficiently, facilitating seamless testing experiences.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rubio, IA
At Accredited Drug Testing, the process of hair follicle testing is straightforward and private. From ordering a test to obtaining the results, clients in Rubio, IA, can expect a process that respects their confidentiality while providing clear, concise steps for ease of use, allaying any privacy concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rubio, IA
Our competitive pricing and fast service turnaround ensure that businesses of all sizes can benefit from hair follicle testing. By offering value-driven pricing strategies, Accredited Drug Testing in Rubio, IA, provides assurance and peace of mind without compromising budgetary constraints.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rubio, IA
Hair follicle drug tests offer precision and speed in determining substance use. Their ability to accurately detect a wide range of drugs makes them superior to traditional testing methods. In Rubio, IA, Accredited Drug Testing ensures that results are swiftly processed, providing employers with reliable data to maintain a safe, drug-free workplace.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rubio, IA
Implementing hair follicle testing helps employers comply with drug-free workplace policies. It minimizes legal liabilities and enhances safety at work, which is crucial in maintaining peace of mind for businesses in Rubio, IA, striving to uphold high standards of employee conduct and safety.
