Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The application of hair testing has emerged as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term histories of substance use by embedding biomarkers in the strands as they grow. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can reflect substance use over a roughly 3-month period. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of about 200 hair strands (approximately the diameter of a #2 pencil) yields 100mg, which is the ideal amount for both initial screenings and detailed confirmations. For tests such as EtG or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. It's best to use a jeweler's scale for measurement. If no scalp hair is accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair is acceptable. Scalp hair specifically refers to hair from the head, while body hair encompasses all other varieties (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The four principal phases in laboratory drug testing are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning starts with entering a sample into the lab’s database. This step checks packaging and shipping integrity, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data not submitted via an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as the preliminary examination for drug presence. Though Screening effectively rules out drug use in most instances at a lower cost, positive findings require further validation for legal acceptability. Samples identified as presumptively positive in this stage need additional confirmation.
For samples preliminarily positive in Screening, excess hair from the original sample is subject to Extraction. This phase involves isolating drugs from hair, an intricate process given the lower drug concentrations compared to other testing methods like urine or saliva, which makes hair drug testing particularly challenging.
Verification of positive screen results occurs through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, presumptively positive samples undergo washing as deemed necessary. This entire laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, follows both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Independence, KS
In Independence, KS, hair follicle examinations surpass traditional urine tests with increased accuracy and reliability. Hair tests have an extended detection time frame, often identifying substance use up to 90 days. Urine tests, while useful for immediate past usage detection, don’t provide the long-term insights that hair testing offers, equipping employers with a comprehensive view of an employee’s drug history.
Extended Detection Window in Independence, KS
Hair follicle testing in Independence, KS offers a significant advantage with its prolonged detection capability, lasting up to 90 days. This extended window allows employers to gain a majority understanding of substance use behaviors over a longer period, providing a clearer picture than other testing methods, which typically have much shorter timeframes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Independence, KS
Hair follicle tests in Independence, KS substantially mitigate the risks of sample alteration, ensuring reliable and robust results. Unlike urine tests, where manipulation is easier, hair tests provide results that are significantly more tamper-proof, increasing the certainty and validity of the testing outcomes, and supporting secure and trustworthy drug testing processes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Independence, KS
With numerous testing locations, Accredited Drug Testing offers unparalleled convenience across the nation, including Independence, KS. Swift access to testing facilities ensures busy individuals and businesses benefit from hassle-free processes, aligning with their demanding schedules and fostering efficient, accessible drug testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Independence, KS
Our hair follicle testing in Independence, KS is characterized by its straightforward, confidential process. From ordering to receiving results, every step prioritizes privacy and ease of use. Employers and individuals can find confidence in a process designed to be both discreet and uncomplicated, addressing concerns about confidentiality effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Independence, KS
Businesses of all sizes in Independence, KS, can benefit from our competitive pricing and quick result turnaround times. Hair follicle testing delivers exceptional value, ensuring companies receive crucial information swiftly without straining budgets, offering peace of mind through cost-effective and timely services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Independence, KS
Employers in Independence, KS can rely on hair follicle tests for swift, precise outcomes. The meticulous accuracy of these tests ensures detection of substance use spanning months, not days. Unlike urine tests, where detection can be short-lived, hair follicle testing maintains high accuracy standards, making it a valuable tool for employers seeking equitable and accurate substance screening processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Independence, KS
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Independence, KS aids in maintaining workplace compliance with drug-free mandates. Employers can minimize legal and safety risks, gaining reassurance that their workforce adheres to company policies. These tests not only enhance workplace safety but also foster a trustworthy environment by upholding high compliance standards.
