Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method to identify drug and alcohol consumption. By trapping biomarkers in the fibers of a developing hair strand, hair offers a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug usage. If collected near the scalp, it can detect the presence of alcohol and drugs for up to three months. The collection process is straightforward, albeit challenging to tamper with, and the samples are convenient to ship.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and containing approximately 200 hair strands (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) when cut from near the scalp yields 100mg, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG analysis, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. In cases where scalp hair is inaccessible, the equivalent amount of body hair may be used. The term "head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step where a sample enters a lab system. This step ensures the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers a basic evaluation for potential drug abuse. While it is an economical way to eliminate drug use in many samples, a positive screening demands confirmation for legal acceptability. Any sample indicated as positive in Screening needs a secondary confirmation.
If a positive indication arises during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. This is where drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than alternative methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug testing one of the more challenging methodologies.
Positive results in Screening are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. Both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards oversee the entire lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Oxford, KY
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers clear advantages. Hair tests are not only more accurate but also provide a much longer detection window, making them the superior choice. With over 90 days of detectable drug use, hair tests thwart attempts to mask substance abuse, ensuring reliable outcomes.
Extended Detection Window in Oxford, KY
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its extended detection period, reaching up to 90 days. This prolonged window delivers a comprehensive view of an individual’s drug history, whether for applicants or employees. Such depth of insight aids employers in maintaining a drug-free workforce and ensuring applicants meet their standards.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Oxford, KY
Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration. Their design ensures that results are both reliable and unquestionable, making them a favored option for stringent drug testing protocols. By minimizing tamper opportunities, these tests provide a secure method to assess substance use accurately.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Oxford, KY
Our expansive network of testing centers across the Nation, including Oxford, KY, grants quick and hassle-free access to testing services. Whether close or distant, our centers make it easy for individuals to avail themselves of necessary testing, ensuring both comfort and efficiency in the process.
Simple, Confidential Process in Oxford, KY
The process for hair follicle testing is both simple and private, addressing any concerns regarding confidentiality. From ordering the test to receiving results, every step is designed to ensure privacy and ease. Clients can trust in a process that respects their confidentiality while delivering accurate results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Oxford, KY
Our hair follicle testing offers competitive pricing with a rapid turnaround, providing excellent value to businesses of all sizes. In Oxford, KY, our clients appreciate the cost-effectiveness coupled with fast results, ensuring they receive great service at a reasonable price, contributing to business confidence.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Oxford, KY
Hair follicle drug tests provide quick and trustworthy results. Famous for their high precision, they can effectively detect substance use. In Oxford, KY, our testing centers ensure speedy processing, offering results that help employers make informed decisions without delays. Their accuracy makes them a preferred choice over other testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Oxford, KY
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps employers maintain drug-free workplaces, promoting safety and reducing legal risks. Ensuring compliance with workplace policies, these tests alleviate concerns over potential drug use scenarios, bringing peace of mind and enhancing organizational security.
