Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Andover, MN

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. The strands of hair encapsulate biomarkers, offering an extended history of substances. When taken near the scalp, the detection period can extend up to roughly three months for alcohol and substances. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to alter, and convenient for transportation.

An ideal sample consists of a 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil), yielding 100mg, perfect for both initial testing and verification. For tests like EtG add-ons or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. We suggest measuring the sample weight with a jeweler’s scale. If head hair isn’t available, a similar amount of body hair can be used. By head hair, we mean hair from the scalp only. Body hair includes other types such as facial or axillary hair.

Process Overview

The process in the lab for drug test results involves four steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning starts with integrating a sample into the lab system. It checks if the sample is sealed correctly, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and inputs any missing information not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening involves a quick drug abuse check. It’s a cost-effective method to eliminate drug usage in most samples, but for court validity, a positive result needs confirmation. Any presumptively positive samples require further confirmation.

If a sample tests positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. Here, substances are extracted at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair testing the most challenging method to execute.

Confirmation for any positive screening result is done through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All positive samples undergo necessary washes before confirmation. The entire lab process is reviewed from Accessioning to Confirmation, meeting both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Identifies drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter windows.
• Tamper-proof: Cheating a hair analysis is very challenging, ensuring precise outcomes.
• Historical insight: It reveals a pattern of drug habits over time, not merely recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Does not indicate recent use: Drugs typically take 5-7 days to appear in hair samples.
• Expense: Generally, hair tests are pricier than alternative testing methods.
• Variability in results: Factors like hair pigmentation and individual growth differences can impact metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Andover, MN

• Hair tests offer superior detection accuracy, outperforming traditional urine tests in long-term substance use analysis.
• The reliability of hair testing is unmatched, ensuring trustworthy results over extended periods.
• This method is particularly advantageous for employers enforcing strict no-drug policies.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Andover, MN

• Hair follicle tests capture drug use over an extended period of up to 90 days, offering a thorough assessment of an individual's substance history.
• Employers gain a comprehensive view of an applicant's or employee's long-term substance habits.
• This wide detection window provides an added layer of scrutiny over potential hires.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Andover, MN

• Hair follicle testing significantly minimizes the risk of sample adulteration.
• This method ensures reliable and incontrovertible results, safeguarding the integrity of the testing process.
• Security in testing results is crucial for maintaining policy compliance and legal standards.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Andover, MN

• The availability of testing centers nationwide ensures seamless access to testing services for everyone.
• Local facilities in Andover provide quick and hassle-free drug testing experiences.
• This convenience saves time and simplifies the entire testing process for users.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Andover, MN

• The process of ordering, undertaking, and receiving hair follicle test results is simple and discreet.
• Privacy concerns are addressed, ensuring peace of mind for those tested.
• This ease of use enhances the accessibility of testing services for various needs.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Andover, MN

• Competitive pricing structures make hair follicle testing an economical choice.
• Quick turnaround times enhance the value for businesses across different sectors.
• Companies benefit from cost-effective testing without sacrificing quality or speed.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Andover, MN

• Hair follicle drug tests in Andover deliver precision and speed, providing high accuracy in substance detection.
• These tests ensure rapid results, making them a superior choice for timely drug test requirements.
• The reliability of these tests provides assurance for employers seeking dependable data on substance use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Andover, MN

• Utilizing hair follicle testing helps ensure adherence to workplace drug-free policies.
• It reduces legal risks, fostering a safer work environment.
• Employers find peace of mind, knowing their testing processes are both effective and compliant.

Drug Testing Near Andover, MN

Fridley, MN

Brooklyn Park, MN

Mounds View, MN

Osseo, MN

Circle Pines, MN

Spring Lake Park, MN

Spring Park, MN

Lexington, MN

Coon Rapids, MN

Oak Grove, MN

East Bethel, MN

Champlin, MN

Blaine, MN

Soderville, MN

Ham Lake, MN