Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the strands. Hair retrieved near the scalp can offer a detection period of approximately 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Collection is easy, tampering is moderately challenging, and shipment is straightforward.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (akin to a #2 pencil), near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advisable. It is recommended to weigh the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. Head hair refers solely to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary steps in a lab's drug test result processing: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initiated into a lab’s system. This step ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any additional data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial rapid check for drugs of abuse. While a cost-effective method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to hold in court. Presumptively positive samples in Screening need a secondary confirmation.
If Screening presumes a sample positive, additional hair from the initial sample undergoes preparation for Extraction. Drugs are removed from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the challenge of hair drug screening.
Positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples indicated presumptively positive, undergo washing as required before confirmation. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the term "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand itself, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Kinnelon, NJ - Hair testing unquestionably surpasses urine tests by probing an extensive detection period. It is appreciated by employers for its consistency and excellent accuracy. Employers opt for hair tests due to their unparalleled ability to expose substance usage over a more extended timeline, unlike urine analysis.
Extended Detection Window in Kinnelon, NJ - The primary advantage of hair follicle tests is their broad detection span, typically up to 90 days. This allows employers to acquire a clearer understanding of an employee's substance use history. By providing data over a longer period, these tests offer a holistic view of drug consumption patterns.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Kinnelon, NJ - One of the most robust features of hair follicle testing is its remarkable resistance to sample tampering. The methodology employed makes it extremely difficult to alter results, providing accurate and unquestionable outcomes. This integrity ensures reliable results that employers can trust.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Kinnelon, NJ - With a broad network of testing centers, our services guarantee quick and hassle-free access. These strategically placed locations ensure that Kinnelon residents and businesses can efficiently meet drug-testing needs without unnecessary delays.
Simple, Confidential Process in Kinnelon, NJ - A straightforward approach ensures ease from ordering to result receipt. Emphasizing confidentiality, the process is user-friendly and discreet, maintaining privacy at every step and addressing any concerns individuals may have regarding testing procedures.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Kinnelon, NJ - Competitive pricing paired with swift service turnaround offers unbeatable value. Clients benefit from our cost-effective pricing solutions, ensuring companies of every size receive exceptional service within budget and without delays, giving peace of mind with effective results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Kinnelon, NJ - Hair follicle drug tests offer remarkable precision, identifying substance use with high accuracy. This method delivers swift results, reassuring employers of its dependability. Rapid analysis is achieved by collecting a small hair sample, ensuring that even minute traces of substance use are detected efficiently.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Kinnelon, NJ - Implementing hair follicle testing helps maintain a drug-free workplace and minimizes legal risks. It keeps companies aligned with compliance strategies while boosting safety by adhering to strict zero-tolerance policies, granting employers much-needed reassurance.
