Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a formidable technique for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drugs by securing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When clipped near the scalp, hair can provide a detection window for alcohol and drugs of up to three months. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in circumference) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal amount for preliminary and confirmatory analysis. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for measurement is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The major steps in laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of integrating a sample into the lab's system, ensuring proper sealing and shipping, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any data entry gaps not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening consists of a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Although cost-efficient for eliminating drug usage in most samples, a positive Screening must be confirmed for court admissibility. Presumptively positive samples in Screening require subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), hence the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive screening results is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation, if necessary. The laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and is accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", this test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in North Garfield, MT
Unlike traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing provides superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests are less susceptible to tampering, offering a clearer picture of an individual's substance history over a longer period.
The extended detection window of up to 90 days gives employers in North Garfield confidence in the integrity of results, making hair follicle testing a preferred method compared to conventional urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in North Garfield, MT
One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over a span of up to 90 days. This extended detection period provides employers with a broad view of an individual's substance use history.
This capability is especially beneficial during the hiring process, as it helps employers assess a candidate's drug use patterns, ensuring they make informed and responsible hiring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in North Garfield, MT
Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration, which is a common concern with urine tests. With hair testing, the opportunity to tamper with samples is nearly eliminated.
This tamper-resistant quality ensures that the test results are reliable and credible, providing employers and the judicial system with confidence in the data obtained from the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in North Garfield, MT
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including local options in North Garfield, ensures that individuals have quick and convenient access to testing services.
This broad reach enables efficient service delivery without the hindrance of long waits or complicated processes, making the entire testing experience straightforward and stress-free for our clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in North Garfield, MT
The process for ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is designed to be simple and confidential. We prioritize client privacy and ensure that all steps are easy to navigate.
Individuals can feel secure knowing that their information is handled discreetly and results are delivered quickly, allowing them to move forward with their health and employment needs.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in North Garfield, MT
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times make hair follicle drug testing an excellent value for companies of all sizes. We strive to provide not only quality service but also cost-effectiveness.
This approach ensures that businesses can maintain their drug-free workplace policies without incurring excessive costs, delivering high-quality testing that fits their budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in North Garfield, MT
The precision and swiftness of hair follicle drug testing make it an excellent choice for detecting substance use. Thanks to advanced technology, these tests offer exceptionally high accuracy, ensuring that employers receive dependable results to make informed decisions.
Hair follicle testing can rapidly deliver results, saving valuable time and allowing employers to act quickly in response to any findings. This method not only meets but often exceeds the accuracy demands of modern workplaces.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in North Garfield, MT
Using hair follicle testing helps employers comply with workplace drug-free policies, essential for maintaining a safe and productive environment. It significantly reduces legal risks associated with drug use incidents.
By implementing hair testing, employers gain peace of mind, ensuring that their workplace adheres to high safety standards while fostering a culture of accountability and trust.
