Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is regarded as a strong method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a timeline of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand fibers. When obtained near the scalp, hair can offer a detection span of up to around 3 months for alcohol and other drugs. It's easy to collect hair, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion comprising about 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in thickness) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. It's best to weigh the specimen using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar volume of body hair can be used. Head hair refers solely to scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result involves these four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning deals with the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This process involves confirming that the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening executes a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Screening is cost-efficient for negating drug use across most samples, but a positive result needs confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Any samples displaying presumptive positives during Screening require further Confirmation.
If the Screening stage yields a presumptive positive, more hair is retrieved from the original specimen for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing particularly challenging to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples showing presumptive positives are cleansed as necessary before Confirmation. The comprehensive laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 specifications.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Oswego, NY
Hair follicle tests outperform traditional urine tests by delivering more precise detection and consistent reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair analysis unveils a broader spectrum of drug use history, offering a distinct advantage in maintaining an accurate assessment of substance usage.
Extended Detection Window in Oswego, NY
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window, identifying drug use up to 90 days prior. This long-term perspective provides employers with a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s drug history, reinforcing informed decision-making processes and fostering a safer work environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Oswego, NY
Hair follicle tests minimize the potential for sample tampering, ensuring consistent and undisputable results. The method’s inherent resistance to manipulation makes it a reliable choice for maintaining the integrity of the testing process and producing credible outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Oswego, NY
Our nationwide network of testing centers offers seamless, accessible, and stress-free service options. With locations conveniently positioned locally, individuals and organizations benefit from quick and efficient access to testing services, ensuring that their needs are met promptly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Oswego, NY
The straightforward and confidential process for acquiring, undergoing, and obtaining test results prioritizes privacy and ease. Clients can feel assured in the simplicity of the procedure, which is designed to safeguard confidentiality while ensuring a user-friendly experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Oswego, NY
Our competitive pricing structures paired with rapid result turnaround times offer exceptional value for companies of varying sizes. Clients experience peace of mind knowing they receive top-tier services at affordable rates, ensuring financial prudence alongside high-quality testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Oswego, NY
Hair follicle drug tests provide precise and timely outcomes, offering superior accuracy in detecting substance use. Compared to other methods, these tests ensure rapid processing and accurate identification of drug use, making them a preferred choice for individuals and organizations seeking trustworthy results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Oswego, NY
Employers achieve compliance with drug-free workplace policies through hair follicle testing, mitigating legal risks and enhancing security. Consistent use of this method ensures adherence to regulations, fostering a safe working environment and promoting peace of mind among employers.
