Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as a highly effective method for detecting drug and alcohol use. Hair strands capture biomarkers within their fibers as they grow, providing a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug use. When taken near the scalp, they can offer a detection window of up to approximately three months for both alcohol and other drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
An ideal sample consists of a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, yielding 100mg of hair for effective screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional assessments, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. By head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively, while body hair encompasses all other types, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
There are four primary stages in the laboratory processing of a drug test result, which include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is initially processed into a laboratory's system. This step ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective method to rule out drug use in most samples, any positive result here requires confirmation to hold up in court. Presumptively positive samples in the Screening step must undergo secondary confirmation.
When a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at lower concentrations compared to other techniques (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methods to execute.
Positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples identified as presumptively positive undergo a washing process before confirmation as needed. The entire laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is rigorously reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and with accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the actual test examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Roaring Gap, NC
Comparing hair and urine tests highlights the superior detection accuracy of hair follicle testing. Hair testing offers better reliability and longer detection windows, ensuring that drug use is identified more effectively than traditional urine tests. This makes it a preferred option for employers and organizations demanding strict compliance.
Extended Detection Window in Roaring Gap, NC
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window, capturing substance use over a much longer timeframe, up to 90 days. For employers, this longer window provides a complete picture of a person's substance habits, helping in comprehensive evaluations of history and behavior, far exceeding what urine tests can offer.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Roaring Gap, NC
Hair follicle tests drastically reduce the chances of sample tampering or adulteration. Due to the nature of hair collection and analysis, test results remain credible and almost impossible to falsify. This advantage promotes trust in the accuracy and integrity of the results, assuring stakeholders of their authenticity.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Roaring Gap, NC
Our network of testing centers spans the nation, making testing services accessible and convenient. Whether in Roaring Gap, NC, or beyond, clients have quick, hassle-free access to testing locations, ensuring ease of service and minimal disruption to their daily routines, no matter their location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Roaring Gap, NC
The process is designed to be straightforward and confidential, from ordering the test to receiving results. Ensuring privacy and simplicity is paramount, and our streamlined procedures address any concerns about confidentiality while maintaining ease of use for individuals and employers alike.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Roaring Gap, NC
Our pricing structures are highly competitive, providing excellent value for businesses of any size. Coupled with rapid turnaround times, our services offer companies the assurance of trustworthy results quickly and affordably, enhancing decision-making and operational efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Roaring Gap, NC
Hair follicle drug testing provides quick, accurate detection of substance use. By analyzing hair, results deliver precision, ensuring reliable insights into drug consumption. This method is recognized for its speed, offering a thorough overview of an individual's history with substances, setting a standard for rapid and trustworthy assessments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Roaring Gap, NC
Employers can rely on hair follicle testing to ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This method not only reduces legal liabilities but also boosts workplace safety and compliance. Hair testing fosters a secure work environment, granting employers peace of mind and minimizing risks associated with substance abuse.
