Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now widely recognized as an effective means for detecting substances and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a long-term history of alcohol and drugs, capturing biomarkers within the fibers as the hair grows. If collected near the scalp, it can offer a roughly 3-month period to detect alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easily transportable.
A 1.5-inch hair sample consisting of around 200 strands (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) gathered near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for testing and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advisable. It is important to weigh the specimen on a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is not available, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically denote scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab process for a drug test result involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial sample processing into a lab's system. This phase includes verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, providing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of a preliminary check for substance abuse. Although Screening efficiently rules out drug use in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation for court admissibility. Any samples that are presumptively positive during Screening require secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. This stage extracts drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screen is done with GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples are washed before confirmation as required. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although described as "hair follicle tests," the test examines the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Meridian, NY
In comparing hair testing against traditional urine tests, the former stands out for its superior detection capability and reliability. Hair tests have a longer detection window and cannot be easily tampered with or falsified, unlike urine tests which detect recent drug use but are more vulnerable to manipulation, making hair the more trustworthy choice.
Extended Detection Window in Meridian, NY
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing, which can uncover drug usage up to 90 days prior, gives employers a more comprehensive insight into an individual's substance history. This detailed overview aids in making informed employment decisions, ensuring the maintenance of a safe and drug-free workplace environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Meridian, NY
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the possibility of sample tampering. This test is difficult to distort or cheat, providing a reliable and unquestionable method for drug detection. Such tamper-resistant qualities make it the preferred choice for employers and legal entities looking for indisputable testing outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Meridian, NY
Our network of testing centers spans the nation, ensuring that individuals in Meridian have easy and direct access to drug testing services. The convenience of having local and nationwide locations means faster and more hassle-free testing, simplifying the process for all involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Meridian, NY
The hair follicle testing process in Meridian is designed to be user-friendly and discreet. From ordering a test to providing a sample and receiving results, each step is managed to ensure privacy and ease for participants. This straightforward approach alleviates concerns over confidentiality and simplifies drug testing.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Meridian, NY
The competitive pricing structure for hair follicle testing, coupled with quick turnaround times, offers excellent value for businesses of all scales in Meridian. The reasonable costs and fast results help companies maintain their operational efficiency while effectively managing their drug-free policy obligations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Meridian, NY
The precision and swiftness of hair follicle drug testing in Meridian make it a preferred choice. These tests are highly accurate in determining substance use, allowing for timely and credible results. Whether for workplace screening or personal reasons, the quick results provide crucial information needed for decision-making or compliance purposes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Meridian, NY
Implementing hair follicle testing helps businesses adhere to drug-free workplace policies, thus reducing legal complications and enhancing safety. This testing method assures employers that their compliance measures are robust and effective, providing peace of mind concerning workforce management and safety standards.
