Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use by trapping biomarkers in the strands of growing hair. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection timeframe of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. The collection process of hair is simple, making it resistant to tampering and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 hair strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, add-ons, or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to use a jeweler’s scale for measuring the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be substituted. When we reference head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning denotes the preliminary integration of a sample into a laboratory’s system, ensuring it was sealed and transported correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplementary data entry absent in the electronic chain of custody.
Screening denotes an initial rapid assessment for drugs. Though Screening offers a cost-efficient method for excluding drug presence in most samples, a positive outcome requires confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Every sample deemed presumptively positive in Screening mandates further confirmation.
Should a sample return a presumptive positive result in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug testing is the most challenging methodology.
The Confirmation of every positive result found in Screening is performed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests," the test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Palmyra, MO
Comparatively, hair testing surpasses urine tests in terms of detection accuracy and reliability. This method captures drug use data over a more extended period, yielding results that withstand scrutiny. Employers favor it for its comprehensive analysis and capacity to maintain zero-tolerance policies, making it a superior choice for discerning drug usage patterns.
Extended Detection Window in Palmyra, MO
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its ability to track drug usage over a 90-day period, far exceeding the narrow windows of traditional testing methods. By offering a long-term view into an individual's substance history, this method provides unparalleled insight, giving employers in Palmyra the detailed information they need to ensure workforce integrity.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Palmyra, MO
Hair follicle tests are inherently tamper-resistant, significantly minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. By ensuring results remain uncontested and reliable, these tests offer peace of mind and confidence, providing organizations the assurance that their drug screening processes are rigorous and secure.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Palmyra, MO
Our expansive network of testing centers makes accessing these crucial services simple and convenient. Whether nationally or locally in Palmyra, scheduling and completing hair follicle tests is streamlined to ensure anyone requiring testing receives swift and efficient service with minimal hassle.
Simple, Confidential Process in Palmyra, MO
The process for obtaining, undertaking, and receiving results from hair follicle testing is straightforward and preserves confidentiality at every step. Designed to prioritize ease of use and protect privacy, it ensures participants experience a seamless process from start to finish, addressing any concerns regarding discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Palmyra, MO
Our competitive pricing and quick result times guarantee exceptional value for organizations, regardless of size. By providing cost-effective solutions without sacrificing quality, we help companies maintain compliance and peace of mind swiftly, allowing them to focus on their core business operations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Palmyra, MO
When it comes to pinpointing drug use with precision, hair follicle testing stands out. The tests are known for their high accuracy, effectively identifying substance use over an extended period. This meticulous approach ensures both employers and clients receive quick and trustworthy results, balancing speed and dependability for critical substance detection.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Palmyra, MO
Hair follicle testing assists employers in adhering to drug-free workplace policies by reducing potential legal liabilities. It enhances workplace safety and promotes a trustworthy environment, all while ensuring that companies stay aligned with industry standards, reinforcing a commitment to maintaining a secure and compliant work setting.
