Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair strand analysis is increasingly recognized as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a detailed history of substance use by storing biomarkers within its growing fibers. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can offer up to a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, tampering is relatively challenging, and shipping is uncomplicated.
Acquiring a 1.5-inch section of about 200 strands (approximately the diameter of a #2 pencil) from the root provides 100mg, the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg collection is advised. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for weighing is recommended. If scalp hair cannot be provided, an equivalent amount of body hair may be obtained. References to head hair denote scalp hair exclusively, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory sequence for drug test processing comprises four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning begins with the sample's entry into the lab's system. This involves confirming sample sealing and correct shipment, assigning a Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN) randomly, and completing any missing data not available through an electronic custody chain.
Screening is a quick preliminary check for commonly abused drugs. Although it's a cost-efficient method to exclude drug use in most cases, positive results from Screening need verification to be legally accepted. Any samples indicating positive results in Screening call for a secondary confirmation.
In instances of positive indications during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations than other forms like urine or oral fluids, contributing to the complexity of hair drug tests.
Confirmatory testing of positive screenings is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All samples presumed positive undergo a cleansing process before confirmation, if necessary. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests," the analysis is performed on the hair itself, not the follicle beneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Breedsville, MI
Hair testing offers superior detection and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. Its capacity to trace substance use over a lengthy period far exceeds the narrow detection scope found in urine testing.
Reliability continues to be a key strength of hair analysis, offering a comprehensive look into long-term drug habits, unlike urine testing, which primarily targets recent use.
Extended Detection Window in Breedsville, MI
Hair follicle tests can uncover drug use over a three-month period, providing employers with a detailed history of an individual's substance usage patterns.
For those seeking a thorough understanding of an applicant or employee's substance use history, hair tests present unmatched insights over urine tests, which focus on short-term use.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Breedsville, MI
Hair follicle tests minimize the risk of sample tampering, offering trustworthy and indisputable findings. This method strengthens the security and accuracy of drug screening procedures.
Sample adulteration concerns diminish with hair analysis due to its inherent resistance to common manipulations found in other testing methods, making it a vital component for genuine results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Breedsville, MI
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures quick, hassle-free access to services nationwide, including in Breedsville. This accessibility emphasizes the convenience we offer individuals seeking testing.
Easy coordination of appointments, coupled with broad reach, makes our locations ideal for conducting tests swiftly and effortlessly, adeptly addressing local and national needs.
Simple, Confidential Process in Breedsville, MI
Our testing process protects your privacy, ensuring ease from ordering to receiving results. This simple approach assuages concerns about confidentiality and efficiency at every stage.
Ease and privacy remain paramount throughout, creating a seamless user experience that respects personal concerns and ensures satisfaction in the drug testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Breedsville, MI
Competitive pricing combined with rapid turnaround times offers excellent value for companies of all sizes, ensuring achieving peace of mind without breaking the bank.
The balance of affordable rates and fast service ensures businesses can rely on timely and budget-friendly testing methods that prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Breedsville, MI
Hair follicle testing stands out for its high precision in detecting substances. The speedy nature of obtaining accurate results ensures that individuals can expect emphasis on reliability and effectiveness in the testing process.
An advanced method of screening, hair testing quickly and accurately confirms substance use, making it a preferred choice for identifying drug presence over time.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Breedsville, MI
Utilizing hair follicle testing assures employers that they maintain adherence to drug-free workplace policies, diminishing legal risks and promoting a safer work environment.
Employers can reduce liability while enhancing workplace security by choosing hair testing. It aligns with stringent policy standards, fostering confidence in maintaining compliant practices.