Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers in the strands of developing hair, it provides a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use. When gathered near the scalp, hair can offer up to an estimated 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for testing and validation. For EtG and extended tests above 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is suggested. It's advisable to measure the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' strictly pertains to scalp hair, whereas 'body hair' includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result includes four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary processing of the sample within a lab’s system. This step includes ensuring the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry required that isn’t covered by an electronic custody system.
Screening is the initial rapid evaluation for drug presence. While Screening is a cost-effective approach to dismiss drug use for most samples, a positive Screening must be substantiated for courtroom validity. Samples that are tentatively positive during Screening ought to undergo additional verification.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the primary specimen and prepped for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug tests are challenging to execute.
Verification of any positive Screen result is through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed prior to validation when necessary. The complete lab process spanning from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Richardton, ND
Hair follicle testing holds a superior position over traditional urine tests due to its robust detection capabilities. Unlike urine tests which detect recent drug use, hair analysis offers a much broader detection window, covering up to 90 days of substance history. This makes hair tests more suitable for long-term substance use surveillance.
The reliability and accuracy of hair testing make it the preferred choice for industries with zero-tolerance drug policies. As urine tests might miss sporadic drug use, the comprehensive nature of hair testing provides a more truthful assessment. This method also minimizes the potential for tampered samples, solidifying its credibility.
Extended Detection Window in Richardton, ND
Hair follicle testing provides an unmatched detection window, enabling the identification of drug use over a span of up to 90 days. This expansive timeframe offers a thorough insight into an individual's substance history, making it invaluable for employers in assessing applicants or monitoring current employees.
By capturing a timeline of drug consumption, hair testing facilitates an accurate appraisal of substance habits over months. This is particularly important for employers seeking stable, drug-free environments, as it enables them to view an extended snapshot of an individual's lifestyle beyond short-term behaviors.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Richardton, ND
The integrity of a hair follicle test is notably superior due to its tamper-resistant nature. Unlike some alternative testing methods, hair samples cannot readily be altered or contaminated. This makes hair testing a dependable option that yields trustworthy results without the risk of manipulation.
The stringent collection process associated with hair testing fortifies its credibility. By drastically reducing sample tampering possibilities, this method provides employers, legal entities, and individuals with unquestionable test outcomes, fostering transparency and confidence in the results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Richardton, ND
Accredited Drug Testing ensures easy access to hair follicle testing through our nationwide network of centers. This accessibility guarantees a streamlined process for individuals and businesses, providing stress-free access to necessary testing services.
For residents of Richardton, ND, and beyond, the convenience of local and national facility availability simplifies testing logistics. This network supports quick and efficient service, aiding individuals and employers in accessing timely and essential testing solutions without hassle.
Simple, Confidential Process in Richardton, ND
The hair follicle testing process prioritizes simplicity and confidentiality, ensuring stress-free experiences for individuals. From ordering to testing and receiving results, each step is designed to be user-friendly, addressing privacy concerns effectively.
Users can be confident in the safeguarding of their personal information throughout the testing procedures. By committing to a discreet and straightforward process, hair testing aligns with individuals' expectations of safety and confidentiality, fostering trust and convenience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Richardton, ND
We offer competitive pricing for hair follicle drug testing, ensuring cost-effective solutions without sacrificing service quality. Our pricing models cater to businesses of all sizes who seek reliable testing on a budget.
Together with affordability, our turnaround times are notably swift, enhancing the overall service value. Quick return on results means less waiting time, allowing companies to make informed staffing decisions promptly. This blend of affordability and efficiency underscores our commitment to exceptional testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Richardton, ND
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision in detecting substance usage. This method ensures quick and consistent results, making it highly effective for both employers and individuals. The speed of obtaining reliable outcomes from hair testing is unmatched by traditional methods.
With the efficiency of hair testing, users can count on a more reliable reflection of a person's drug use history. The test’s high level of accuracy not only ensures trustworthy results but also supports informed decision-making processes. This is particularly advantageous for organizations enforcing strict drug-free policies.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Richardton, ND
Implementing hair follicle drug testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, delivering peace of mind to employers. This approach minimizes legal risks associated with drug use in professional settings, enhancing overall workplace safety.
The reliability of hair testing supports compliance, safeguarding businesses from potential complications linked to false negatives in drug screening. By prioritizing such thorough testing, companies are better equipped to avoid legal repercussions and maintain high safety standards.
