Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has become recognized as an effective mechanism for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended overview of alcohol and other drugs by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When gathered near the scalp, hair can provide up to an estimated 3-month view for detecting alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to gather, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment with approximately 200 strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp will supply 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG additions, or tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. When discussing head hair, we mean only scalp hair. Body hair refers to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages involved in the lab handling of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary processing of a specimen into a lab’s system. This comprises verifying that the sample's seal and shipping were correct, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any remaining data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial rapid examination for substances of abuse. Though Screening is a cost-effective means to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to be valid in legal situations. All samples with a presumptively positive Screening require further confirmation.
If a sample indicates presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex methodology to perform.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly named "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hiawatha, KS
Hair testing offers significant advantages over traditional urine tests. With a longer detection period and higher accuracy, hair follicle analysis is gaining popularity for its reliability. Unlike urine tests, which only capture recent drug use, hair tests provide a comprehensive history, enhancing decision-making for employers.
Extended Detection Window in Hiawatha, KS
The major advantage of hair follicle testing lies in its extended drug use detection period, reaching up to 90 days. This longer window provides employers with a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's drug history, aiding in better-informed decisions regarding hiring and employee monitoring.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hiawatha, KS
With hair follicle testing, the risk of sample manipulation is greatly reduced, offering a more reliable indication of drug use. Unlike other methods, hair tests are tough to adulterate, ensuring that results remain trustworthy and unquestionable. For organizations, this means less concern about cheating during the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hiawatha, KS
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures that access to hair follicle testing is simple and hassle-free. Whether local to Hiawatha or nationwide, our facilities offer convenient scheduling, providing individuals and businesses with easy access to essential testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hiawatha, KS
From ordering to receiving results, our hair testing process is straightforward and maintains confidentiality. We prioritize user privacy and ease, addressing concerns about security and simplicity throughout the entire testing procedure, making it a stress-free experience for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hiawatha, KS
Our competitive pricing structures and quick result turnaround deliver exceptional value for businesses of all sizes. With hair follicle testing, companies can gain peace of mind, knowing they are receiving quality services at an excellent price while ensuring timely access to accurate results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hiawatha, KS
Hair follicle drug tests provide unmatched precision in spotting substance usage. These tests, known for their speedy processing and precise detection, ensure that employers can trust the results they receive. Whether testing for recent or past substance use, hair analysis stands out for its ability to deliver swift and trustworthy outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hiawatha, KS
Hair follicle testing fits seamlessly within drug-free workplace policies, helping to ensure compliance and minimize legal complications. For employers, this testing method provides assurance and enhances workplace safety, promoting a culture of accountability and reliability.
