Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a detailed history of substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When taken from near the scalp, a hair sample can indicate alcohol and drug use over a span of around three months. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively challenging to modify, and convenient for transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, with roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil), located nearest the scalp, provides approximately 100mg, the best amount for analysis and validation. For Extended EtG, additional tests, or more than 10-panel assays, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the sample. If head hair is not available, a similar quantity of body hair can be utilized. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result includes four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary stage of inputting a sample into a laboratory’s database. This step involves confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data not included through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Screening is an economical method to exclude drug usage in most samples; however, any positive results need confirmation to be permissible in legal settings. Samples that test positive in the Screening require further verification.
Should a sample test positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from the hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis more complex than other methodologies.
Confirmation for any positive results in Screening is conducted through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS techniques. Any presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation if required. Every step of the lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being called "hair follicle tests", the assessment is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bellingham, MN
Hair follicle testing stands superior against urine tests for its detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike traditional urine tests that only detect recent substance use, hair tests offer a longer detection window. This makes them the preferred choice for employers and organizations looking for comprehensive insight into substance use histories.
Extended Detection Window in Bellingham, MN
Hair follicle testing offers an extended window to detect drug use, reaching up to 90 days. This benefit allows employers to thoroughly understand an individual's substance history, making it an advantageous tool in their hiring and monitoring processes, ensuring a safer work environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bellingham, MN
Hair follicle testing significantly limits the chances of sample tampering, offering results that are robust and unchallengeable. This enhanced reliability ensures that organizations can trust the findings, reducing doubts and enhancing confidence in the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bellingham, MN
Our widespread network of testing centers provides convenience and accessibility, facilitating effortless and efficient testing procedures. Whether local or nationwide, accessing testing services remains quick and stress-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bellingham, MN
The process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential, ensuring privacy while being easy to navigate. From ordering tests to receiving results, every step prioritizes discretion and user comfort, addressing any privacy-related concerns effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bellingham, MN
Our competitive pricing and rapid result delivery represent excellent value. We cater to businesses of all sizes, offering cost-effective solutions that don't compromise on the quality or speed of the testing process.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bellingham, MN
Hair follicle drug tests in Bellingham provide unmatched speed and precision. They are known for their high accuracy, ensuring reliable detection of substance use. With hair testing, you'll receive a quick turnaround on results without sacrificing reliability, offering peace of mind through improved testing quality.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bellingham, MN
Employers can ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies through hair follicle testing. This method not only reduces legal risks but also strengthens workplace safety. It offers clear insights into employees' substance use, fostering a secure and harmonious work environment.
