Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures biomarkers within the strands, offering a prolonged timeline of substance use. The closest hair strands to the scalp can reveal drug intake over a period of up to three months. It is easy to gather hair samples, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil), yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, add-ons, or panels exceeding ten, a sample size of 150mg is suggested. It's advisable to use a jeweler's scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, the same amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically pertains to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (like facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result consists of four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step, where a sample is processed into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigns a unique Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completes additional required data entry, unless handled electronically via a chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial drug check. Although cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most cases, a positive Screening result requires confirmation for legal validity. Presumptive positive samples from Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive result during Screening, more hair is extracted and prepared for further analysis. In the Extraction stage, substances are retrieved from the hair in lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair testing complex.
Confirmation of positive screening findings is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The complete process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the test focuses on analyzing the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing testing methods in Lehr, ND, hair follicle testing consistently proves superior to urine testing. Benefits of hair over urine include longer detection windows and the ability to uncover habitual use, not just current consumption. This makes hair tests ideal for employers seeking comprehensive insights, where the reliability of results significantly outshines traditional urine analysis.
With an extended detection period, hair follicle testing in Lehr, ND, provides a detailed record of substance use over 90 days. Employers benefit from this wider window, gaining insights into long-term usage patterns, offering them a robust tool to assess potential or current employees comprehensively, beyond what's possible with shorter-range tests.
In Lehr, ND, hair follicle tests are a preferred choice due to their resistance to tampering. These tests minimize risks of adulteration, with samples gathered in an observable and secure manner, ensuring the integrity of results. This makes them a reliable choice for environments where accurate results are paramount, reducing doubts about test authenticity.
Our vast network of testing centers ensures convenience for residents of Lehr, ND. Whether locally or nationwide, access to testing services is straightforward and hassle-free. Our aim is to provide seamless, immediate access to all necessary testing centers, minimizing delays and ensuring you experience smooth operations regardless of your location.
The procedure for hair follicle testing in Lehr, ND is simple and confidential. From ordering the test to sample collection, and receiving results, the entire process prioritizes ease and privacy. This approach addresses common concerns, making drug testing a seamless part of compliance and safety strategies without infringing on personal privacy.
Competitive pricing and fast service make hair follicle testing in Lehr, ND, a cost-effective choice. We offer affordable options that cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring they receive excellent value for money. Combined with swift turnaround times, our services provide both financial and operational benefits to our clients.
In Lehr, ND, the efficiency and precision of hair follicle drug tests stand unmatched. Hair testing offers quick and accurate detection of substance use, surpassing traditional methods. Within this small timeframe, it captures a broader spectrum of substances, ensuring that results are not only fast but also dependable, giving employers confidence in the data they receive.
For employers in Lehr, ND, using hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, promoting peace of mind. This method underscores compliance, reducing legal liabilities. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding workplace safety, helping firms maintain a secure, drug-free environment for their workforce.
