Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. The hair strand’s fibers capture biomarkers of alcohol and other substances, providing a historical record of up to approximately three months when cut close to the scalp. Hair collection is straightforward, moderately tamper-resistant, and simple to transport.
By collecting a 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp, you obtain 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation tests. For testing like EtG, additional components, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be utilized. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types like facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory drug test comprises four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes preliminary processing as it enters the lab's system. This step verifies the sample’s secure sealing and shipping, assigns a distinct LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data input not supplied by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening performs an initial, rapid check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is cost-efficient for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation to be legally valid. Samples that show a presumptive positive in Screening require further verification.
A sample indicating a presumptive positive in Screening proceeds to Extraction by taking additional hair from the initial collection. Drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluids), which makes hair drug testing the most challenging to conduct.
Confirmation for any positive screen is done with GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation if necessary. Throughout Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire laboratory workflow is inspected under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly called "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Milford, KS
In comparing hair follicle testing with traditional urine methods, hair testing emerges superior due to its detection accuracy. It effectively tracks drug use over more extended periods and offers superior reliability.
An advantage of hair testing is its unparalleled accuracy over standard urine tests. The extended detection window enhances the ability to track substance use precisely, providing employers with crucial insights.
Extended Detection Window in Milford, KS
The prominent feature of hair follicle testing is its extended detection capability, covering an impressive span of up to 90 days. This provides employers with a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance use patterns.
Unlike other testing methods, hair tests offer a broader view over an extended period, allowing for a detailed understanding of an individual's drug use history and aiding in comprehensive assessments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Milford, KS
Hair follicle tests notably diminish the risk of tampering, ensuring results are reliable and concrete. This gives confidence that test results are authentic and challenge-proof.
The robust nature of hair testing provides a barrier against potential interference, cementing its reputation as one of the most reliable drug testing methods available today.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Milford, KS
Our expansive network of nationwide testing facilities ensures that accessing drug testing services is quick and stress-free.
Strategically located centers throughout the country mean easy and efficient access to testing services, especially welcome in local areas like Milford, KS.
Simple, Confidential Process in Milford, KS
Our streamlined, confidential process for scheduling, conducting, and receiving hair test results prioritizes privacy and user-friendliness.
The ease of the testing process ensures confidentiality and simplicity from start to finish, relieving any privacy concerns clients may have.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Milford, KS
We offer competitive pricing and rapid result turnaround times, ensuring excellent value for businesses of all sizes.
Our cost-effective services, paired with swift delivery of test outcomes, provide businesses financial efficiency alongside comprehensive drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Milford, KS
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their rapid and precise outcomes. They boast a high accuracy rate when it comes to detecting drug use, providing results that are both dependable and swift.
The precision of hair follicle testing is unmatched. The process ensures that the substances are accurately identified, giving individuals and organizations complete reliability on the results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Milford, KS
Adopting hair follicle testing ensures that workplaces adhere to drug-free policies, minimizing legal liabilities and promoting a safer working environment.
With hair testing, employers experience peace of mind knowing they are compliant with critical safety standards, significantly reducing associated risks.
