Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective tool for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged history of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the hair strands. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 3-month period of drug and alcohol use. Collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and shipping is convenient.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. Using a jeweler’s scale for measuring the specimen is advised. If scalp hair isn’t available, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" covers all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of incorporating a sample into a lab’s system. This step involves confirming proper sample sealing and shipping, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any additional data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for substance abuse. While cost-efficient for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive result in Screening requires confirmation for legal admissibility. For samples presuming positive during Screening, further confirmation is necessary.
In cases of presumptive positives during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for further processing. In Extraction, drugs are separated from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging to execute.
Confirmation of any positive result from Screening is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All samples that test presumptively positive are washed as necessary before confirmation. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests," these tests measure the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Concordia, NJ
The benefits of hair testing clearly outweigh those of traditional urine tests. Hair follicle tests demonstrate superior detection accuracy, offering a reliable means to identify prolonged substance use, thereby securing a trustworthy method compared to urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Concordia, NJ
Hair follicle testing allows for the detection of drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This broad detection window is invaluable for employers seeking to assess long-term substance usage patterns, providing a holistic view of an individual’s drug history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Concordia, NJ
Hair follicle tests drastically lower the possibility of sample adulteration. The method ensures accurate and reliable results by safeguarding the integrity of the testing process, providing employers with unassailable evidence of substance use history.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Concordia, NJ
Our widespread network of testing centers provides convenience via accessible locations nationwide, facilitating swift and stress-free testing processes, benefiting individuals and companies alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Concordia, NJ
The straightforward and private process of ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results emphasizes user privacy and simplicity, making it a non-intrusive option for those concerned about confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Concordia, NJ
We offer competitive pricing structures alongside quick turnaround times, delivering outstanding value and assurance for businesses, large or small, ensuring financial accessibility without sacrificing promptness or accuracy.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Concordia, NJ
Hair follicle drug tests excel in precision and speed, offering highly accurate detection of substance use. The advanced technology used ensures quick processing times without compromising on accuracy, providing reliable results that employers trust.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Concordia, NJ
Utilizing hair follicle testing solidifies adherence to drug-free workplace policies, affording employers reduced legal exposure and augmented safety. This compliance offers significant reassurance to businesses, enhancing organizational integrity.
