Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The significance of hair testing has risen as an effective mechanism for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. Hair collected near the scalp can yield an approximate 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. Collection is easy, tampering is relatively tough, and the sample is simple to ship.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp produces 100mg of hair, ideal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or testing beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a similar amount of body hair may be obtained. Referring to head hair means scalp hair only, while body hair denotes all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key phases in a lab's process for a drug test result consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial input of a sample into the lab’s system. This process verifies that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs an initial rapid assessment for abused drugs. While Screening is economical for excluding drug use in most samples, any positive results must be confirmed for legal acceptability. Samples flagged as presumptive positives in Screening require further confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, more hair is taken from the primary specimen and ready for Extraction. This phase retrieves drugs from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing one of the most complex methodologies.
Positive screening confirmations are conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives are washed before confirming if needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite occasionally being called "hair follicle tests", the test inspects the hair strand and not the scalp's hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Ray, ND
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests in Ray, ND, the superior detection accuracy of hair testing stands out. Hair tests offer a longer detection window and reliable results, making it the preferred choice for many. While urine tests are standard, hair tests deliver more extensive insights due to their detection window and reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Ray, ND
Hair follicle testing offers an expansive detection period in Ray, ND, capturing a person's substance history over approximately 90 days. This breadth gives employers comprehensive insight into an applicant's or employee's drug use history, providing a clearer picture of their lifestyle and aiding in informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ray, ND
Hair follicle drug tests significantly reduce the possibility of sample tampering, delivering reliable results in Ray, ND. This method ensures that the outcomes of the test are trustworthy and beyond dispute. Employing such a method greatly mitigates the risk of compromised samples, protecting the integrity of the results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Ray, ND
Our expansive network of testing centers offers convenience with both nationwide reach and local options in Ray, ND. This setup ensures easy access to testing services, facilitating a hassle-free experience for those requiring drug testing—no matter where you are located.
Simple, Confidential Process in Ray, ND
In Ray, ND, the process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and protects your privacy. From ordering the test to receiving results, the steps are simple, ensuring confidentiality every step of the way. This arrangement addresses privacy concerns and ensures an uncomplicated experience for all participants.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Ray, ND
With competitive pricing structures, hair follicle testing in Ray, ND offers both affordability and quick turnaround times. Companies, regardless of size, can benefit from excellent value, knowing they receive precise, quick results without sacrificing their budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Ray, ND
Hair follicle drug testing in Ray, ND, offers not just speed but unmatched accuracy. The method quickly identifies substance use with high precision, giving stakeholders the reliability they need in the results. Compared to other methods, hair testing provides fast feedback with thorough precision, ensuring reliable conclusions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ray, ND
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Ray, ND ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, enhancing safety and reducing legal risks. For employers, this testing method contributes to better compliance and provides peace of mind by ensuring workplace environments remain secure and legally compliant.
