Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Blackford, KY

What it is, How it works

Considered a robust method, hair testing plays a crucial role in identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The strands of hair capture biomarkers within their fibers, offering a historical record of usage extending over time. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can reveal drug and alcohol use over a period of up to three months. Hair is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.

A 1.5-inch segment comprising approximately 200 strands of hair (comparable to a #2 pencil's width) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, the perfect sample for both preliminary and confirmatory testing. For EtG, additional analyses, and tests above 10 panels, it's advisable to use 150mg of the sample. It's suggested to weigh the hair sample on a jeweler’s scale for accuracy. In instances where scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Conversely, body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory process of handling a drug test result consists of four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning includes the initial incorporation of the sample into the laboratory system, involving confirmation of the sample’s proper sealing and shipment, allocation of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfillment of any missing data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody.

Screening involves conducting a preliminary review for potential drugs of concern. While Screening is an economical method to rule out drug presence in most samples, a positive indication needs a Confirmation for legal acceptability. Any samples indicated as positive during Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.

In cases of indicative positives during Screening, extra hair is extracted from the initial collection for the Extraction stage. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at concentrations considerably lower than those in other sampling methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which accounts for the higher complexity of performing hair drug testing compared to other methods.

Drug presence confirmation from any positive screen is undertaken using techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples confirming positive results undergo a thorough wash before final confirmation. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and conforms to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Prolonged detection period: Hair drug tests offer a detection period of up to 90 days, more extensive than urine tests which offer shorter timeframes.
• Resistance to tampering: Cheating a hair drug test is extremely difficult, enhancing result accuracy.
• Provision of historical data: It offers insights into drug usage patterns over time rather than solely recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Incapability of detecting immediate use: Drugs become traceable in hair approximately 5-7 days after use.
• Expense: Hair drug tests typically cost more than alternative drug testing techniques.
• Result variability: Factors including hair color and individual growth differences can affect the concentration of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests”, the test evaluates the hair strand itself rather than the follicle located under the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Blackford, KY

• Hair tests provide a more comprehensive overview of drug use behaviors, surpassing the limitations of urine tests.
• The long detection window of up to 90 days offers a stronger measure of habitual substance use.

Advanced Detection Accuracy

• Employers and legal entities count on the superior detection capabilities of hair testing over traditional methods.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Blackford, KY

• Hair follicle testing provides insights into long-term drug use, with detection windows extending up to 90 days.
• This comprehensive method helps employers assess a more complete substance history of candidates.

A Detailed Substance History

• The extended detection periods offer a lens into past usage, aiding in better-informed hiring decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Blackford, KY

• Hair follicle tests dramatically lower the risks of sample tampering, ensuring results are trustworthy.
• This method's integrity is vital for maintaining unwavering reliability in testing results.

Uncompromised Testing Security

• The robust nature of hair samples guarantees they remain unaltered, providing consistent outcomes free from adulteration.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Blackford, KY

• Our widespread network allows for easy and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services.
• Whether in Blackford or nationally, testing is within reach for all clients.

Seamless and Accessible Testing

• Accessibility from any location ensures that testing needs are met promptly.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Blackford, KY

• Ordering and undertaking hair follicle tests is straightforward and respects client confidentiality.
• The process upholds privacy, alleviating concerns over sensitive information handling.

Effortless and Private

• The user-friendly process ensures minimal inconvenience while safeguarding user information.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Blackford, KY

• Competitive pricing structures combined with rapid result delivery offer excellent value.
• Employers of all sizes can benefit from economical and timely drug testing services.

Cost-effective Solutions

• The swift turnaround on test results helps businesses make informed decisions promptly.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Blackford, KY

• Hair follicle tests deliver precise results quickly, ensuring confidence in testing outcomes.
• The accuracy in detecting recent substance use is unparalleled, making them a top choice for employers and legal entities.

Unmatched precision with Hair Follicle Testing

• Hair testing stands out for its ability to detect even trace amounts of substances, providing reliable results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Blackford, KY

• Hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies.
• It mitigates legal risks and promotes a secure and responsible working environment.

Workplace Safety and Legal Compliance

• Employers gain peace of mind knowing their testing methods meet the highest standards of legality and accuracy.

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