Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair samples have become recognized as an effective means for identifying substance use, including drugs and alcohol. Hair captures long-term traces of these substances by holding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate three-month timeframe for detecting substances like alcohol. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, with little risk of tampering, and they are easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (resembling the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, provides about 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and validation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or when testing more than 10 panels, a collection of 150mg of the hair is suggested. It is advisable to use a jeweler’s scale to measure the hair sample. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair may be utilized. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types, such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The principal steps in laboratory handling of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
The Accessioning phase incorporates the initial inclusion of a sample into a lab’s workflow. Tasks include ensuring that the sample is securely sealed and dispatched, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and entering any additional data that a digital chain of custody does not cover.
Screening is a preliminary assessment checking for substance abuse. Although Screening is a budget-friendly approach to exclude drug usage in most samples, any screen indicating presence needs further confirmation to be considered legitimate in any judicial scenario. Samples that test positive in Screening require an additional confirmatory test.
When a sample is deemed positive during the Screening phase, more hair is pulled from the existing sample and readied for Extraction. This part of the process removes drugs from hair at a concentration much lower than that in other testing techniques (like urine or oral fluids), making hair drug screening a complex technique to manage.
Verification of any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technology. All samples showing possible positive results are cleaned as necessary before confirmation. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning through to Confirmation is assessed in line with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle situated beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Beachwood, NJ:
Choosing hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests in Beachwood, NJ, offers unparalleled detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair testing unveils substance use over an extended timeframe, often revealing drug consumption up to 90 days prior. This method ensures a comprehensive analysis, making it a trusted assessment tool for employers seeking thorough drug screening solutions in the region.
Extended Detection Window in Beachwood, NJ:
In Beachwood, NJ, hair follicle testing is renowned for its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged period, typically up to 90 days. This extended detection window offers employers a detailed and comprehensive view of a candidate or employee's history of substance use, allowing for more informed hiring and retention decisions. As a result, this method is often favored for its effectiveness in portraying long-term substance use patterns.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Beachwood, NJ:
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the chances of sample tampering, providing reliable, unquestionable results. In Beachwood, NJ, this method is preferred for its ability to maintain the integrity of test samples, ensuring that results are both dependable and accurate. By utilizing hair samples, businesses can confidently implement drug testing procedures, benefiting from a nearly tamper-proof testing solution.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Beachwood, NJ:
Our extensive network of testing centers spans nationwide, including local facilities in Beachwood, NJ. This ensures quick, easy, and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. Employers and individuals benefit from the geographical convenience of our locations, enabling prompt scheduling and efficient testing, which aligns with the pressing demands of modern workplace standards.
Simple, Confidential Process in Beachwood, NJ:
The hair follicle testing process in Beachwood, NJ, is straightforward and confidential, addressing privacy and ease-of-use concerns. Ordering, taking, and receiving results involves a simple series of steps designed to ensure user privacy. As a result, this process offers the perfect balance of efficiency and discretion, providing reassurance to clients concerned about confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Beachwood, NJ:
Our competitive pricing structure and quick turnaround times make hair follicle testing both affordable and efficient in Beachwood, NJ. Companies of all sizes benefit from our cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. The rapid processing of samples ensures timely results, allowing businesses to make informed decisions expediently, which ultimately enhances workplace productivity and safety.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Beachwood, NJ:
Hair follicle drug tests offer a high level of precision, speed, and accuracy, distinguishing them as a superior choice for detecting substance use. Their sophisticated analysis provides results that are both reliable and rapid. Users in Beachwood, NJ, benefit from this swift testing method, ensuring timely insights into substance use, which is essential for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Beachwood, NJ:
Employing hair follicle testing helps businesses in Beachwood, NJ, uphold drug-free workplace policies, ensuring they remain compliant with legal standards. This method reduces the risk of non-compliance penalties, offering peace of mind and assurance to employers. By prioritizing employee safety and well-being through reliable testing, companies reinforce their commitment to maintaining a secure and productive work environment.
