Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the strands of hair during their growth phase, hair serves as an indicator of prolonged exposure to alcohol and various drugs. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can reveal substance use for a period of up to three months. The collection process is straightforward, the samples are tough to tamper with, and they are easily transportable.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of roughly 200 strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, which is ideal for both initial screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, and/or evaluations exceeding 10 panels, a sample size of 150mg is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for accurate measurement is advised. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent measure of body hair may be utilized. When mentioning head hair, we specifically refer to hair from the scalp. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial inclusion of a sample into a lab’s workflow. This process includes the verification of proper sealing and shipping of the sample, allocation of a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and the completion of any supplementary data entry required beyond the electronic chain of custody protocol.
Screening entails a preliminary assessment for drug presence. Although Screening provides an economical approach to exclude drug use in the majority of cases, if a positive result occurs, confirmation is essential for legal admissibility. Samples showing a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
In cases of presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing presents a more complex methodology.
Confirmation for positive screening outcomes is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. If needed, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is governed by the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair itself, not the follicle located beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Wilsons Mills, NC
Hair follicle testing shows clear advantages over urine tests in terms of detection accuracy and reliability. While urine tests can detect recent usage, hair tests provide a broader overview. This makes them an invaluable tool for employers and legal entities who require a detailed substance history.
Extended Detection Window in Wilsons Mills, NC
One of the significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its lengthy detection window. Capable of identifying substance use up to 90 days prior, it provides a thorough picture of an individual’s drug use history, offering employers in Wilsons Mills, NC, a more comprehensive understanding.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Wilsons Mills, NC
Hair follicle testing is designed to minimize the risk of sample tampering. The process is difficult to adulterate, ensuring the results remain reliable and indisputable. This gives peace of mind to employers, who can trust the integrity of the testing results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Wilsons Mills, NC
With our extensive network of testing centers, including in Wilsons Mills, NC, accessing drug testing services becomes hassle-free. Convenience is assured with easily reachable locations nationwide, providing straightforward and efficient access to testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Wilsons Mills, NC
The hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential, addressing privacy concerns effectively. From ordering and testing to obtaining results, every step ensures ease of use and discretion, making it an ideal choice in Wilsons Mills, NC.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Wilsons Mills, NC
We offer competitive pricing structures coupled with quick turnaround times, delivering excellent value for companies in Wilsons Mills, NC. Whether you're a large corporation or a small business, our services provide affordability and peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Wilsons Mills, NC
When it comes to drug testing, precision and speed are essential. Hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched accuracy in Wilsons Mills, NC. Compared to traditional methods, they deliver rapid and reliable results, making them an excellent choice for employers seeking dependable substance detection.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Wilsons Mills, NC
Adopting hair follicle testing can help employers comply with drug-free workplace policies. It not only mitigates legal risks but also enhances safety at work. Employers in Wilsons Mills, NC, benefit from this reliable testing, offering peace of mind through assured compliance.
