Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures a prolonged history of these substances by embedding biomarkers in the strands as they grow. Sampling hair near the scalp allows for a detection period of up to 3 months for drugs and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (diameter similar to a #2 pencil) taken close to the scalp produces 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For tests such as EtG or those exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. Measuring the sample with a jeweler’s scale is recommended. If scalp hair is absent, a comparable amount of body hair may be obtained. "Head hair" specifies scalp hair only, while "body hair" denotes all other forms (beard, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The processing of a drug test in the lab involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial sample incorporation into the lab's system. It verifies proper sealing and shipping of the sample, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concludes any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening includes an introductory assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening serves as an economical method to exclude drug consumption in most cases, confirmed results are necessary for legal proceedings. Samples that test positive in Screening must undergo an additional confirmation.
If the Screening phase indicates a presumptive positive, extra hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. This phase isolates drugs from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug tests particularly challenging to perform.
Positive Screening outcomes are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, complies with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specifications and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although sometimes called "hair follicle tests", the procedure analyzes the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Testing Triumphs Over Urine Testing in Grenola, KS
The longer detection period of hair tests presents a comprehensive overview of substance use, where urine tests fall short.
Extended Detection Window in Grenola, KS
This longer detection time is invaluable for making informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Grenola, KS
This method deters manipulation, securing the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing in Grenola, KS
Immediate availability ensures minimal disruption in your plans.
Simple, Confidential Process in Grenola, KS
Client confidentiality is upheld every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Grenola, KS
Reliability comes paired with affordability, enhancing peace of mind.
Accuracy and Speed in Grenola, KS
Reliable results are delivered quickly, aiding swift decision-making processes for employers in Grenola, KS.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Grenola, KS
Hair testing ensures a secure and compliant workplace environment.