Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now viewed as an effective means to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can capture a prolonged record of such substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands that form as hair grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to roughly 90 days for alcohol and other drugs. Collection is straightforward, tough to tamper with, and simple to mail.
An ideal sample for testing and verification is a 1.5-inch section with about 200 hairs (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil), yielding 100mg of hair. In cases involving EtG, additional procedures, or tests surpassing 10 panels, it is advisable to use a 150mg sample. It's recommended to measure the sample on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not an option, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. By “head hair,†we mean only scalp hair; “body hair†relates to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Summary
The key procedures in the lab analysis of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails initially integrating a sample into a lab's database. This step incorporates validating that the sample is properly sealed and dispatched, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any extra data collection not covered by an electronic chain of custody process.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening offers a budget-friendly alternative to rule out drug activity in most samples, a positive Screen requires confirmation for legal acceptability. All samples suspected of being positive in Screening necessitate further validation.
If a sample shows probable positivity during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. In this phase, substances are isolated from hair at a significantly lower concentration than with other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug examination the most challenging technique to execute.
Verification of any positive Screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples marked as potentially positive undergo a cleansing process before confirmation. The complete lab workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO/IEC 17025 certification.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: While frequently termed "hair follicle tests," the assay investigates the hair shaft, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Blakeman, KS
Hair testing surpasses urine tests with superior detection accuracy and longer detection windows. Employers favor hair tests for their reliability, making them a preferred choice over traditional urine screenings.
Extended Detection Window in Blakeman, KS
Hair follicle tests have the advantage of detecting drug use for up to 90 days, offering employers an insightful view of substance use over time, unlike shorter-detection methods like urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Blakeman, KS
Hair tests significantly minimize tampering risks through an observed collection process, ensuring unmatched reliability and certainty with the test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Blakeman, KS
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers offers quick, hassle-free access to drug testing services, enhancing convenience for individuals and companies alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Blakeman, KS
The straightforward, confidential process for ordering and obtaining test results ensures privacy and ease, addressing all user concerns throughout every phase.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Blakeman, KS
We provide competitive pricing and rapid result turnaround, delivering excellent value for companies of all sizes seeking efficient testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Blakeman, KS
Hair follicle testing delivers swift, precise results. Its ability to accurately detect various substances ensures reliable outcomes without delay, providing peace of mind to those seeking trustworthy drug testing solutions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Blakeman, KS
Incorporating hair testing aids in adhering to drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal concerns, and promoting a safer, more compliant work environment.