Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a valuable method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers in the strands of emerging hair, it offers a comprehensive overview of substance use over time. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can reveal alcohol and drug use for approximately a 3-month period. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, the possibility of tampering is relatively low, and it is convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches, comprising roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness), near the scalp, yields 100mg, which is the standard sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional panels, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale for accurate weight measurement. If scalp hair isn’t available, a matching amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically denotes scalp hair. Conversely, "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four core steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails incorporating a sample into a laboratory's system. This step ensures the sample was securely sealed and dispatched correctly, assigns a Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN) randomly, and deals with any further data not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is the preliminary evaluation for substance abuse. Although it is a cost-effective method for negating drug use in most cases, a positive screen must be substantiated for legal acceptability. Samples that test positive during Screening will require secondary verification.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepped for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at much lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes is performed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive samples undergo pre-confirmation washing as required. The entire laboratory workflow, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is conducted under the scrutiny of both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Stockholm, NJ
Hair follicle drug tests present a greater detection threshold and consistency when compared to traditional urine tests. Their adeptness at identifying substances remains uncontested, making them a favored choice for accurate and reliable assessments. This advanced method surpasses urine analysis, offering a broader insight into individual substance habits.
Extended Detection Window in Stockholm, NJ
Hair follicle tests excel with their substantial detection range, surpassing other methods by effectively spotting drug use within a 90-day timeframe. This capability grants employers a holistic understanding of applicants or workers, aiding in constructing a thorough profile of substance use history. Such extensive windows are vital for maintaining a drug-free environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Stockholm, NJ
Hair follicle tests drastically diminish the likelihood of tampering, ensuring outcomes remain unequivocal and credible. Their inherent tamper-resistant nature ensures test integrity, offering a trustworthy portrayal of an individual's substance use record. This robust framework secures against adulteration and other deceptive practices.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Stockholm, NJ
With a comprehensive network of testing facilities across the nation, access to efficient and stress-free services is a guarantee. The availability of these centers in local and nationwide locations facilitates easy and timely testing, allowing individuals and businesses to effortlessly integrate testing into their schedules.
Simple, Confidential Process in Stockholm, NJ
With an easy-to-follow and confidential approach, clients can order, participate, and receive outcomes without hassle. This seamless procedure prioritizes privacy, ensuring that all details remain discreet while maintaining simplicity throughout, addressing any privacy concerns while maintaining ease of operation.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Stockholm, NJ
Offering competitive pricing alongside brisk processing times, hair follicle tests provide unmatched value, catering to businesses of varying scales. The swift turnaround ensures timely results, assisting companies in maintaining focus on core operations while effectively managing their screening needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Stockholm, NJ
Sourcing precise and expedient drug testing methods is crucial for making informed decisions. Hair follicle tests offer unparalleled precision and efficiency, swiftly gauging the presence of substances. With their impressive accuracy levels, these tests provide a dependable reflection of an individual’s substance use, ensuring decisions are grounded in solid evidence.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Stockholm, NJ
Implementing hair follicle testing aids in adhering to workplace drug policies, helping minimize legal risks and elevating safety levels. Such practices assure compliance, safeguarding organizational reputation while fostering a secure working setting. Employers can rest assured of their protective measures against drug-related liabilities.
