Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair offers an extensive timeline of drug and alcohol consumption by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the expanding hair strand. When taken near the scalp, hair can give a detection window of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the hair specimen is advisable. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair isn't accessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair includes all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the preliminary handling of a sample within a lab's system. This process confirms the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening efficiently eliminates drug use in most samples, a positive result must be confirmed to be legally valid. Any samples preliminarily positive in Screening require a secondary confirmation.
If a sample is preliminarily positive during Screening, additional hair is drawn from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than other methods (ex. urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing the most challenging method to perform.
Verification of any positive screening result is done through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are cleansed before confirmation if needed. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Alloway, NJ
Hair testing offers numerous advantages over traditional urine tests, including enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. This testing method proves more adept at identifying long-term drug use, providing a clearer picture than urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Alloway, NJ
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged period, up to 90 days. This extended window allows for an in-depth understanding of an individual’s substance history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Alloway, NJ
Hair follicle tests are notably resilient to tampering, ensuring reliable and unquestionable outcomes. This method significantly diminishes the chance of sample adulteration, safeguarding the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Alloway, NJ
Our extensive network of testing centers across the country ensures seamless access to testing services. This widespread availability guarantees a quick, easy, and hassle-free experience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Alloway, NJ
We offer a straightforward and confidential procedure for ordering, conducting, and receiving test results. Our process is designed to prioritize privacy and ease, addressing any concerns clients may have.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Alloway, NJ
Our competitive pricing and swift turnaround times deliver exceptional value, assuring peace of mind for businesses of various sizes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Alloway, NJ
Hair follicle drug tests excel in precision and rapidity, providing dependable detection of substance use. Their high accuracy makes them an invaluable tool for both employers and individuals seeking definitive results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Alloway, NJ
Employers utilizing hair follicle testing benefit from enhanced compliance with drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks, and promoting a safer work environment.
