Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a historical record for alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. When harvested near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of up to about three months for alcohol and other substances. This method is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
An optimal sample for screening and confirmation consists of a 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands (approximating the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, totaling 100mg of hair. For EtG, additional tests, or examinations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is recommended to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair cannot be retrieved, a comparable amount of body hair is permissible. When discussing head hair, only scalp hair is addressed. Body hair includes all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test outcome involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary processing phase of a sample in a lab’s system. This step verifies the appropriate sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes additional data input that the electronic chain of custody system may not provide.
Screening executes a swift preliminary check for drug misuse. While cost-efficient for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for courtroom eligibility. Any samples with presumptive positive results in Screening mandate secondary confirmation.
For samples with presumptive positives in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. During Extraction, substances are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods such as urine or oral fluid, rendering hair drug screening one of the most complex methodologies.
Positive screening confirmation is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS processes. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The comprehensive laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis involves the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Minnewaukan, ND
Hair testing surpasses traditional urine tests by offering greater detection accuracy and reliability. Employers benefit from its ability to uncover a more comprehensive history of substance use, providing a clearer picture compared to short-window urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Minnewaukan, ND
One of the main advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over a lengthy period, up to 90 days. This extended window provides employers with a thorough insight into an individual's substance history, far exceeding the limited duration of urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Minnewaukan, ND
Hair follicle testing greatly minimizes the chances of sample tampering. Its method of collection and analysis ensures results are authentic and indisputable, making it the preferred choice for accurate drug testing.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Minnewaukan, ND
With a network of testing centers spread across the nation and locally in Minnewaukan, accessing testing services is quick and hassle-free, ensuring convenience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Minnewaukan, ND
Our process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and maintains confidentiality. Clients can expect an anonymous experience from ordering through to receiving results, all while ensuring privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Minnewaukan, ND
Our competitive pricing and swift turnaround times offer great value for businesses of all sizes. We ensure you receive timely and cost-effective services, keeping your peace of mind intact.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Minnewaukan, ND
Hair follicle drug tests in Minnewaukan offer unmatched precision and speed. Their high accuracy in identifying substances ensures that results are both swift and dependable, providing peace of mind for employers and individuals alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Minnewaukan, ND
Employers gain peace of mind through hair follicle testing as it aligns with drug-free workplace policies. This method helps reduce legal risks and enhances overall workplace safety by ensuring compliance.