Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now widely regarded as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive timeline of alcohol and drug intake by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. Collected near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 90-day window for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to send.
A 1.5-inch snippet consisting of about 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) near the scalp offers 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for assessment. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. We recommend using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the hair. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair may be gathered. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The key steps in processing a drug test result in a lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial phase of integrating a sample into the lab's system. This step includes checking that the sample was correctly sealed and sent, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any extra data input that's not part of an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for abusive drugs. Screening is cost-efficient for eliminating drug use in most samples; however, a positive result must be confirmed to be valid in legal contexts. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening need a secondary confirmation.
If a sample appears positive in the Screening stage, more hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. At this point, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening is the most rigorous method to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive screening results is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation as required. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in East Gull Lake, MN
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior detection capabilities, resulting in much higher accuracy and reliability. Hair tests can uncover substance use with a far-reaching timeline. The incorruptibility of samples, when obtained, delivers unparalleled precision. The advantages make hair testing a preferred method for institutions aiming to enforce drug-free policies.
Extended Detection Window in East Gull Lake, MN
One standout feature of hair follicle testing is its extensive detection window, which can chart substance use over 90 days. This long-term view benefits employers greatly by affording a more comprehensive understanding of a candidate or employee's substance history. Such details are crucial in maintaining a drug-free environment and ensuring the suitability of staff for specific roles or industries.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in East Gull Lake, MN
Hair follicle testing is noted for its resistance to tampering, setting a benchmark in reliable substance testing. This method effectively curtails the possibility of sample adulteration, ensuring every result is authentic and valid. Employers and legal entities benefit from the certainty that the results are as accurate as they are unquestionable, serving their purposes with absolute integrity.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in East Gull Lake, MN
Simple, Confidential Process in East Gull Lake, MN
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in East Gull Lake, MN
Accredited Drug Testing ensures that all drug test evaluations remain cost-effective without compromising on speed. Our affordable pricing structures cater to a variety of business sizes while our efficient service guarantees quick turnaround. This ensures that companies can receive their reliable results promptly, achieving high standards of value and service.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in East Gull Lake, MN
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their speed and accuracy, offering the best indicators of drug use. These tests allow results to be elucidated with rapidity, providing trustworthy data. This precision ensures that substance detection is effectively managed, serving as a vital tool for all parties involved, including employers and legal authorities looking for efficient solutions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in East Gull Lake, MN
Incorporating hair follicle testing fosters compliance with workplace policies focused on maintaining drug-free environments. With this testing method, employers can alleviate legal concerns and enhance workplace safety, knowing that their practices align with industry standards. The extensive detection and accuracy facilitate peace of mind, allowing companies to focus on their core business processes with confidence.
