Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective means to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can provide an extended record of alcohol and substances by embedding biomarkers in the fibers of the hair as it grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair can offer up to about a 3-month detection span for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
For optimal screening and confirmation, a 1.5-inch cut of around 200 hair strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp is ideal, equating to 100mg of hair. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. In instances where scalp hair is absent, an equivalent portion of body hair may be collected. Note that head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial or axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the step where a sample is initially processed into the lab system. This process ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial rapid assessment for the presence of drugs. Although Screening is a cost-effective means to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for it to be valid in legal settings. Samples testing presumptively positive during Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive at Screening, additional hair is extracted for the Extraction process. Drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most intricate method to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples may be cleansed before confirmation as needed. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning through to Confirmation is scrutinized under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Despite often being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Surpasses Urine Testing in Bridgman, MI is evident through its superior detection prowess and trustworthy results. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair follicle evaluations offer a longer window of detection, capturing substance use history comprehensively. Furthermore, hair tests are less prone to manipulation, ensuring genuine outcomes each time.
Extended Detection Window in Bridgman, MI highlights how hair follicle drug testing reveals drug use over an extended period of up to 90 days. This enables employers to gain a detailed view of an individual's substance habits, ensuring informed choices regarding employment or ongoing monitoring.
Tamper-Resistant Testing in Bridgman, MI demonstrates the robust nature of hair follicle tests in preventing sample adulteration. These tests provide credible outcomes that withstand scrutiny, eliminating questions around sample integrity and strengthening the testing process's reliability.
Convenient Testing Locations in Bridgman, MI ensure hassle-free access to drug testing services, thanks to our nationwide facility network. Quick and easy access to hair follicle testing is available locally, enhancing convenience for residents seeking reliable testing.
Simple and Confidential Testing Process in Bridgman, MI clarifies the ease of ordering, completing, and receiving test results. Prioritizing privacy, this process ensures a seamless experience from start to finish, addressing any concerns about confidentiality and efficiency.
Affordable and Quick Turnaround in Bridgman, MI bolsters confidence in our competitive pricing strategy and rapid result delivery. Businesses of all sizes benefit from cost-effective hair follicle testing, aligning with budgetary needs while maintaining swift service.
Precision and Speed with Hair Follicle Tests in Bridgman, MI offer unmatched accuracy in detecting substance use. These tests are known to deliver fast results, ensuring timely decision-making for employers and individuals. With their ability to accurately identify a wide range of substances, hair testing stands as a reliable option for those seeking assurance in test outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bridgman, MI involves utilizing hair follicle tests to uphold drug-free workplace policies. These tests help minimize legal risks and foster improved workplace safety, providing assurance to employers and employees alike.
