Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers within their growing fibers, offering an extended detection history for alcohol and drugs. Hair collected near the scalp can provide a detection window of approximately 3 months for substances. It is easy to collect, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of about 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) near the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal size for both screening and verification. For EtG enhancements and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is suggested to use a jeweler's scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair cannot be collected, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
There are four key phases in the laboratory process for analyzing drug test outcomes: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the entry of a sample into a laboratory's system. This process includes ensuring the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and any necessary data entry not already provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial rapid evaluation for drugs of abuse. While this is an economical way to exclude drug use in most samples, any positive screening results must be verified to be valid in legal settings. Any samples that test tentatively positive during Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample is found tentatively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction process. In Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluids), making hair drug testing the most complex methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any tentative positive findings from Screening is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All tentatively positive samples are cleansed prior to Confirmation if required. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning through to Confirmation falls under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests," the test analyzes the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Mesick, MI
One of the primary reasons hair follicle testing is superior to traditional urine tests is its extensive detection ability. Hair tests can typically detect substance use up to 90 days past, compared to a urine test's limited timeframe. Individuals seeking reliable results turn to hair testing for its consistent accuracy in identifying prolonged drug use.
Extended Detection Window in Mesick, MI
In Mesick, MI, the use of hair follicle tests grants employers a detailed overview of an individual's substance use over the past 90 days. This broader detection window is unmatched by other testing methods, offering insights into ongoing patterns of use rather than short-term abstention. Such historical data is invaluable for making informed hiring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Mesick, MI
Hair follicle tests employed in Mesick, MI significantly minimize risks associated with sample adulteration. Because the collection process is observed and nearly impossible to falsify, these tests consistently offer dependable and genuine results. Employers appreciate the integrity and security this method provides.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Mesick, MI
Our testing locations span nationwide, and Mesick, MI residents benefit from the convenience of our strategically positioned centers. Quick access to testing facilities ensures straightforward, efficient service, allowing individuals and businesses in Mesick to engage with our process effortlessly and stress-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Mesick, MI
Conducting a hair follicle test in Mesick, MI is designed to be both simple and confidential. From placing an order to receiving results, privacy is paramount. Our streamlined process caters to ease of use, ensuring client information remains secure and emphasizing straightforward, confidential services.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Mesick, MI
In Mesick, MI, hair follicle testing services are priced competitively to accommodate businesses of varying sizes. Not only are the rates affordable, but the turnaround time for receiving results is fast, delivering excellent value. Companies can rely on timely, high-quality testing without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Mesick, MI
For residents and businesses in Mesick, MI, hair follicle testing provides expedited results without sacrificing accuracy. Once collected, samples undergo thorough lab analysis, promptly delivering precise results. Whether for employment screening or personal use, trust our methods to detect substance use accurately every time.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Mesick, MI
In Mesick, MI, ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies is crucial. Hair follicle testing simplifies this process, granting businesses legal safeguards and promoting workplace safety. By choosing this robust testing method, employers mitigate potential risks and enhance their operational reliability.
