Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests have emerged as an effective resource for detecting the presence of drugs and alcohol. By embedding biomarkers in the strands of growing hair, hair serves as a historical record over an extended period. When cut close to the scalp, it offers up to roughly a three-month window for identifying alcohol and other substances. Hair is easy to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with about 200 hair strands (akin to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For tests beyond 10 panels, EtG, or additional options, 150mg of the specimen is advisable. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler's scale. In cases where scalp hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. When we mention head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The process of laboratory analysis of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning constitutes the initial handling of a sample upon its entry into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts a preliminary rapid assessment for drug presence. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug usage in most cases, a positive Screening result requires confirmation to hold up in legal situations. Any samples initially testing positive in Screening necessitate a secondary verification.
When a sample returns a presumptive positive outcome at the Screening stage, additional hair from the original specimen is retrieved and readied for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at noticeably lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which accounts for the complexity of hair drug screening.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positives are pre-treated through washing before confirmation when necessary. The entire lab procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Referred to as "hair follicle tests" colloquially, the test assesses the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp
In Hillside Lake, NY, hair follicle testing offers a clear advantage over urine testing. The longer detection window and superior accuracy ensure a more reliable assessment of substance use, making it suitable for employers enforcing stringent drug-free policies. Hair testing also reduces the potential for result manipulation, providing a trustworthy alternative to the more traditional urine tests frequently used in similar situations.
One significant benefit of hair follicle testing in Hillside Lake, NY, is its extended detection window. This method can reveal drug use history for up to 90 days, offering employers a thorough overview of an individual's substance use patterns. With a more comprehensive picture of an employee or candidate's potential drug use, companies are better equipped to make informed decisions, contributing to a safer and more reliable workplace environment.
In Hillside Lake, NY, hair follicle tests are known for their tamper-resistant nature, making them almost impossible to adulterate. Unlike other testing methods that may succumb to manipulation, hair testing ensures that the integrity of the sample is maintained throughout the process. This reliability provides peace of mind for both employers and individuals, ensuring that test results reflect true substance use history without the risk of contamination or cheating.
With numerous nationwide testing locations, including those in Hillside Lake, NY, Accredited Drug Testing provides unmatched convenience. Our widespread network ensures quick and hassle-free access to testing services, accommodating those in need of prompt testing. Local testing options mean individuals and companies can benefit from efficient services without excessive travel time, meeting the demands of busy schedules and urgent testing needs.
In Hillside Lake, NY, the hair follicle testing process is both simple and confidential. Clients can order, take, and receive results with confidence in their privacy. We prioritize a streamlined and user-friendly experience, addressing any confidentiality concerns. Our approach ensures that clients feel secure throughout the testing process, from initial contact to receiving results, enhancing the overall experience.
Hair follicle testing in Hillside Lake, NY, is competitively priced and offers fast turnaround times. Companies of all sizes benefit from our cost-effective pricing structures that provide excellent value without compromising on quality. The quick processing of tests reassures clients of timely results, supporting efficient employee screenings and helping businesses maintain their operational flow without unnecessary delays.
Hair follicle drug tests in Hillside Lake, NY, are recognized for delivering fast, accurate, and reliable results. Their precision in detecting substance use surpasses traditional methods, making them a trustworthy choice for both individuals and employers. The expedited analysis process ensures that results are available promptly, meeting the urgent testing needs of various clients. This speed and accuracy make it a preferred option.
Employers in Hillside Lake, NY, benefit from using hair follicle testing to maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method helps reduce legal liabilities and enhance overall workplace safety. Employers gain peace of mind knowing that their drug-testing procedures are thorough and compliant, ensuring a safer and more secure work environment for all employees. This measure also supports efficient risk management strategies.