Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a long-term record of alcohol and drug traces by capturing biomarkers within the strands of developing hair. When acquired near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to roughly 3 months for substances. Hair is easy to gather, tough to tamper with, and simple to send.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of about 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal sample for examination and validation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is suggested. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair might be used. "Head hair" references scalp hair exclusively, whereas "body hair" includes all other sorts (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four core phases in lab processing of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial intake of a sample into the lab’s system. This step includes confirming that the sample was properly sealed and sent, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not provided through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of misuse. While Screening is a budget-friendly method for excluding drug use in the majority of samples, a positive screening result must be confirmed for it to be court-admissible. Any specimens indicating a presumptive positive in Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
For samples with presumptive positive results during Screening, more hair is sourced from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are separated from hair at much lower concentrations than with other practices (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening a challenging methodology to execute.
Verification of a positive screening finding is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the examination evaluates the hair strand itself, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rensselaer Falls, NY
In comparing hair and urine tests, hair testing offers superior accuracy in detection across a prolonged timeframe. Unlike standard urine tests, hair tests provide results that are not susceptible to easy manipulation or short-term cleansing strategies. Organizations opting for hair follicle tests benefit from enhanced accuracy and reliability in screening processes.
Extended Detection Window in Rensselaer Falls, NY
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its 90-day detection window. This expansive period grants employers insights into an individual’s substance use history beyond the scope of contemporary tests. By evaluating drug use over such an extended period, employers gain a thorough understanding of a person’s drug habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rensselaer Falls, NY
Hair follicle tests significantly curb the risk of tampered samples. Ensuring reliability and trust in results, these tests mitigate many common evasion techniques associated with urine tests. By employing a method that resists manipulation, organizations enhance the credibility and thoroughness of their screening efforts.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rensselaer Falls, NY
With numerous testing centers dispersed nationally, accessing hair follicle testing is a simple task. This widespread availability ensures fast, uncomplicated, and efficient service, meeting the needs of both local businesses and individuals alike. Immediate serviceability significantly benefits large-scale operations requiring swift screening.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rensselaer Falls, NY
The process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and ensures privacy at every step. From ordering to receiving results, individuals can trust the confidentiality and ease afforded by the system, making it a comfortable choice for those concerned about personal data security.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rensselaer Falls, NY
Offering competitive pricing structures, hair follicle tests provide excellent value across company sizes. Coupled with fast result delivery, the process ensures companies receive excellent service without compromising budget goals. This efficiency supports businesses in making informed, timely decisions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rensselaer Falls, NY
Hair follicle testing stands out with its quick and precise outcomes. The method accurately detects substance use, ensuring reliability in results. The assurance of swift testing is invaluable when timely results are critical. This testing approach confidently identifies drug usage, offering trusted results for organizations and individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rensselaer Falls, NY
Employers gain substantial peace of mind utilizing hair follicle tests, ensuring alignment with drug-free workplace initiatives. The test's reliability reduces legal concerns and bolsters workplace safety, maintaining compliance with regulations and offering a secure environment free from substances.
