Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of drugs and alcohol by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. When taken from near the scalp, hair can reveal up to nearly a 3-month detection period for alcohol and other substance use. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A segment measuring 1.5 inches, approximately 200 hair strands (equivalent to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal sample size for preliminary screening and verification. For tests like EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair isn't accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be gathered. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results comprises four major phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of integrating a sample into the laboratory’s workflow. This process confirms the sample’s proper sealing and shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening acts as a preliminary check for substances of abuse. While it's a cost-effective method to dismiss drug usage for most samples, positive results from Screening must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Any samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive in Screening, more hair is taken from the original sample for extraction. During this phase, drugs are separated from hair at notably reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is considered the most challenging method to perform.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the below-scalp hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Nett Lake, MN
Hair tests surpass urine tests by offering enhanced accuracy and reliability in drug detection. Their ability to unmask drug use beyond common detection periods makes them particularly appealing to those requiring stringent testing methods.
Extended Detection Window in Nett Lake, MN
With hair follicle testing, detect drug consumption over an elongated time span, up to 90 days. This expanded window provides employers with a detailed analysis of an individual's substance use history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Nett Lake, MN
Hair follicle tests minimize the chances of sample tampering significantly. This robust method ensures the results remain credible and beyond question.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Nett Lake, MN
Our expansive network of testing centers, including those nationally and in Nett Lake, MN, ensures straightforward and efficient access to drug testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Nett Lake, MN
The hair follicle testing process is streamlined and private, granting ease in ordering, sample collection, and result acquisition, while safeguarding confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Nett Lake, MN
Our competitive pricing and speedy turnaround times offer exceptional value, serving companies of all sizes and granting peace of mind promptly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Nett Lake, MN
Hair follicle drug tests boast unrivaled speed and precision, delivering clear and definite findings in short order. Known for high accuracy, these tests uncover substance use effectively, aiding in decisive results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Nett Lake, MN
Implementing hair follicle testing helps employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal concerns while boosting safety across the workplace.
