Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as a robust instrument in identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair strands capture biomarkers within their fibers, offering a comprehensive history of substances over an extended period. When clipped near the scalp, hair can furnish a detection window of up to around three months for alcohol and other substances. The collection of hair samples is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easily transportable.
A sample length of 1.5 inches, roughly 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil's girth), closest to the scalp, yields 100mg—the perfect quantity for testing and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or more than 10-panel tests, 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If collecting scalp hair isn’t possible, the equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair, while "body hair" denotes all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary phases in processing a drug test result in the lab: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails incorporating a sample into a laboratory's system. This process includes confirming the sample's seal and shipment integrity, issuing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any pending data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary test to identify drug presence. While it efficiently rules out drug use in most cases, any positive results must be confirmed for court admissibility. Samples with a presumptive positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
Should a presumptive positive occur in Screening, extra hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction preparation. In this phase, the hair releases drugs at a significantly reduced concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making it the most challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed prior to confirmation if required. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation per ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests examine the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Alpha, MI
Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to urine tests. In Alpha, MI, this method provides a reliable alternative due to its extensive detection window and accuracy in identifying drug use. While urine tests are useful for short-term detection, hair tests excel in long-term substance use monitoring.
Extended Detection Window in Alpha, MI
The hair follicle test is valuable for its ability to detect drug use for up to 90 days, offering employers in Alpha, MI, thorough insights into an individual's drug history. This extended timeframe allows a comprehensive overview compared to the brief snapshot provided by urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Alpha, MI
The hair follicle test significantly mitigates the risk of sample adulteration, resulting in dependable and unquestionable results. In Alpha, MI, this method is appreciated for its robust security, providing assurance that the findings are accurate and authentic.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Alpha, MI
Our network of testing centers across the nation, including facilities in Alpha, MI, provides easy and hassle-free access to drug testing services. This convenience supports businesses and individuals seeking quick testing solutions without geographical restraints.
Simple, Confidential Process in Alpha, MI
The process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and ensures privacy. From ordering the test to receiving results, each step is designed with confidentiality in mind, addressing any concerns regarding ease of use and privacy for individuals in Alpha, MI.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Alpha, MI
Our competitive pricing and quick result turnaround make hair follicle drug testing accessible for companies of various sizes in Alpha, MI. This valuable service offers peace of mind, knowing you receive great value coupled with effective results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Alpha, MI
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision and rapid results. The advanced testing method swiftly detects substance use, ensuring you receive timely and reliable data. In Alpha, MI, this testing option is favored for its combination of speed and accuracy, offering a clear advantage over other methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Alpha, MI
Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, thereby reducing legal liabilities and bolstering safety in the workplace. In Alpha, MI, employers benefit from the assurance that a compliant and secure environment is maintained.
