Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers within their fibers as they grow, offering an extended timeline for alcohol and drug detection. When collected near the scalp, hair provides about a 3-month visibility window for detecting these substances. It is easy to collect, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of around 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, and those beyond 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. It is advisable to weigh the hair on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't an option, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" pertains solely to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The drug testing process is split into four essential stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary handling of a sample within a lab's system, which involves confirming proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data input necessary beyond what is available from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves conducting an initial swift assessment for drug presence. Although cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive screen needs confirmation for court acceptance. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening require further confirmation.
In cases of a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the specimen for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are removed from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is particularly challenging.
Positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technology. Samples that test presumptively positive undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation in addition to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp
In Columbia Heights, MN, hair follicle testing offers multiple advantages over traditional urine tests. Hair tests provide superior accuracy in detecting substances, proving to be a more dependable method. The detection window also provides broader insights into an individual's substance use history.
Unlike urine tests, which are limited to recent usage, hair tests offer reliability and a deeper understanding of an applicant's habits, aiding employers in making informed decisions.
Extended Detection Window: In Columbia Heights, MN, hair follicle tests can trace drug use over a period extending up to 90 days. This extended period is invaluable to employers seeking comprehensive insights into their employees' or applicants' substance use histories.
With more in-depth detection, hair testing presents a broader view of an individual's lifestyle compared to standard urine tests, which have a shorter detection timeframe.
Tamper-Resistant Technology: The hair follicle testing approach in Columbia Heights, MN significantly reduces chances of sample tampering. This method ensures that the results are reliable and beyond dispute, offering confidence for businesses and individuals alike.
Due to the stringent collection process, hair tests deter fraudulent manipulation, making them an excellent choice for accurate, tamper-proof results.
Convenience of Nationwide and Local Testing: Our testing centers throughout Columbia Heights, MN, and across the nation provide quick and accessible services. This vast network ensures that everyone can benefit from efficient and straightforward testing practices.
Conveniently located facilities minimize travel time and ensure hassle-free access to consistent, first-rate testing.
The process of employing hair follicle testing in Columbia Heights, MN is streamlined and confidential, ensuring comfort and privacy throughout. From ordering to receiving results, the process is simple enough for peace of mind.
The discreet nature of the testing means that concerns about privacy are effectively addressed, offering confidence to participants.
Affordable Pricing and Quick Turnaround: Competitive pricing models are in place for hair follicle testing in Columbia Heights, MN, ensuring value for businesses of all sizes. Quick result times further highlight our offerings' value.
This combination of excellent pricing and fast results provides peace of mind and cost-efficiency, making our testing an attractive choice.
Precision and speed are cornerstones of hair follicle drug tests in Columbia Heights, MN. These tests provide accurate results swiftly, ensuring reliable detection of substance use. With each strand of hair analyzed intricately, the margin of error is minimized, confirming high levels of accuracy.
Reliable Outcomes: The technology behind hair testing supports quick processing times, delivering results faster than traditional methods. Employers and individuals can trust the data the test provides.
Compliance and Assurance for Employers: Columbia Heights, MN businesses benefit from hair follicle testing by ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces legal uncertainties, enhances safety, and reinforces policies.
Employers can maintain work environments confidently, knowing their processes are supported by rigorous testing, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
