Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly regarded as an effective way to uncover drug and alcohol consumption. By encapsulating biomarkers within the strands, hair offers a prolonged history of alcohol and drug usage. When collected near the scalp, it can cover a detection period of up to three months for alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to send for analysis.
Taking a 1.5-inch sample of roughly 200 hair strands (about the girth of a #2 pencil) from the scalp yields 100mg—the optimal sample for analysis. For tests like EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. Herein, head hair denotes scalp hair alone, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four key phases in the lab processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial processing of a sample into a lab's system. This step ensures sample sealing and shipping were done correctly, allocates an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes extra data entry not supported by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a quick initial analysis for substance misuse. While this is a cost-effective means to rule out drug presence in most samples, a positive screen needs confirmation to hold up in court. All samples presumptively positive in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
Should a sample be presumptively positive during Screening, more hair from the original specimen is readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are separated from hair at much lower concentrations than in other methods (like urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation of any positive screening is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis itself focuses on the hair strand rather than the hair follicle below the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
In Petersburg, NY, hair follicle testing stands out when compared to traditional urine tests. The unparalleled detection accuracy and reliability make it a superior choice. Hair tests provide a more comprehensive insight into an individual's drug history, and their non-intrusive collection method adds to their appeal, while minimizing the risk of deceptive practices associated with urine tests.
Extended Detection Window
The substantial advantage of hair follicle testing in Petersburg, NY lies in its ability to track drug use over a period extending up to 90 days. This extensive window offers employers an invaluable overview of an applicant or current employee's substance use history, ensuring informed decision-making and maintaining a drug-free workplace environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
In Petersburg, NY, the hair follicle test is recognized for its resistance to tampering, offering trustworthy and decisive results. This method significantly diminishes the potential for specimen adulteration, safeguarding the integrity of the testing process and ensuring confidence in the results provided.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations
Petersburg, NY benefits from the extensive network of testing locations provided by our services. This accessibility guarantees quick and efficient access to testing for individuals across the nation. The wide-ranging availability makes the testing process seamless and hassle-free, emphasizing convenience and prompt service delivery.
Simple, Confidential Process
In Petersburg, NY, the hair follicle testing procedure is designed to be straightforward and private. From ordering to receiving results, the process maintains confidentiality at every stage, addressing any privacy concerns effectively. The seamless experience ensures users can partake with comfort and ease of understanding.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
Petersburg, NY benefits from our competitive pricing structures and swift turnaround times associated with hair follicle testing. Our services offer excellent value, presenting organizations of all scales with budget-friendly options and rapid results, enhancing their operational efficiency and peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Petersburg, NY, hair follicle drug tests are renowned for delivering quick and dependable results. Their precision in identifying substance use is unmatched, ensuring individuals are assessed accurately. This approach not only elevates testing efficiency but also reinforces confidence in the outcome, a vital aspect for both employers and individuals alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Employers in Petersburg, NY benefit from utilizing hair follicle testing, ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace regulations. The meticulous nature of this testing method reduces legal risks and boosts workplace safety, providing peace of mind for businesses aiming to uphold a secure and compliant work environment.
