Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Accredited Drug Testing has recognized hair analysis as an effective means for detecting drugs and alcohol consumption. The hair preserves a comprehensive timeline of alcohol and other substances by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When hair is harvested close to the scalp, it may offer an approximate 3-month detection timeframe for identifying alcohol and drug presence. Its collection is straightforward, alteration is challenging, and transportation is convenient.
Gathering a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) from the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which serves as the optimal sample for both initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For EtG addition, supplements, and tests surpassing 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is suggested. It is advised to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. In instances where scalp hair is inaccessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be sampled. With reference to head hair, it specifically means scalp hair exclusively. Body hair includes other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The procedure for laboratory analysis of a drug test outcome encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory's database. This step involves authenticating proper sealing and shipping of the sample, attributing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry not accounted for by an electronic chain of custody arrangement.
Screening represents an initial examination for abused drugs. Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use for most samples. However, a positive screening result necessitates confirmation for court admission. Samples that are preliminarily positive in Screening mandate a secondary confirmation.
For samples showing preliminary positive results in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for the Extraction phase. At this stage, the drug content is extracted from the hair at a concentration significantly lower than other procedures (e.g., urine or oral fluids), making hair drug analysis the most intricate procedure to implement.
Confirmation of a positive result from the screening is completed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS technologies. All preliminarily positive samples undergo washing before confirmation, if necessary. The complete laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests," the actual examination focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Surpasses Urine Testing in Bancroft, MI
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle tests stand out due to their superior detection accuracy. Hair tests trace drugs over extended periods, offering unparalleled reliability. This method gives employers confidence in the accuracy of results, crucial for enforcing zero-tolerance drug use policies.
Extended Detection Period in Bancroft, MI
Hair follicle testing is adept at revealing drug use over a prolonged span of up to 90 days. This offers employers a comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use history, vital for making informed decisions about hiring or retention in the workplace.
Securing Results with Tamper-Resistant Methods in Bancroft, MI
The integrity of hair follicle tests significantly curtails the possibilities of sample tampering. By rendering results that are both reliable and irrefutable, this method ensures test authenticity, making it the preferred choice for many institutions.
Convenience of Nationwide and Local Testing Centers in Bancroft, MI
Our extensive network of testing centers, including those in Bancroft, MI, facilitates easy access to services. This ensures testing is convenient, prompt, and free of complications, supporting the needs of employers and individuals alike.
Effortless and Private Testing in Bancroft, MI
The process for arranging, undergoing, and receiving hair test results is designed to be straightforward and discreet. Concerns about privacy and ease are addressed, ensuring all aspects are handled with the utmost confidentiality and simplicity.
Competitive Pricing and Swift Turnaround in Bancroft, MI
With affordable pricing models and rapid delivery of results, our services offer excellent value. This approach assures businesses of various sizes that they receive timely outcomes essential for informed decision-making.
Fast and Accurate in Bancroft, MI
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and swift results. They ensure meticulous detection of substance use, enhancing the reliability of test outcomes. This accurate method supports organizations in maintaining a substance-free workplace while delivering timely results for immediate action.
Compliance and Assurance for Employers in Bancroft, MI
Incorporating hair follicle tests maintains alignment with drug-free workplace protocols, minimizing legal liabilities and emphasizing safety. Employers gain peace of mind, ensuring compliance with regulations and fostering a secure work environment.