Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analyses are now recognized as a significant method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures and stores biomarkers within the fibers of its growing strands, offering an extended history of substance use. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol presence for up to roughly three months. Collection is straightforward, challenging to alter, and convenient for transportation.
A strand sample measuring 1.5 inches from approximately 200 hairs (akin to the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp approximates to 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and validation tests. For EtG, supplementary, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for the weighing process. If head hair is not accessible, a similar quantity of hair from the body can be gathered. By head hair, we imply scalp hair exclusively. Hair from the body encompasses all other types including facial and axillary.
Process Overview
The laboratory proceedings for a drug test result encompass four basic phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is about initially processing the sample into the laboratory system. This phase covers the verification of proper sample sealing and shipping, allocation of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data not provided by the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening executes a preliminary assessment for the presence of drug abuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to negate drug usage for the majority, any positive result must be confirmed to be deemed admissible in court. Samples that are provisionally positive in Screening demand additional confirmation.
For samples deemed provisionally positive during Screening, a larger portion of the initial specimen is utilized for Extraction. During this phase, drug compounds are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations than other test methods (e.g., urine or saliva), which accounts for the complex nature of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive findings in the screening stage is via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples undergo washing if needed before confirmation. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning through Confirmation undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with the ISO / IEC 17025 standards for accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often termed as "hair follicle tests", these analyses examine the hair shaft and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Brinkhaven, OH.
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, the superior accuracy and reliability of hair analysis stand out. Hair testing's extended detection period offers a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, accurately capturing long-term patterns of use that urine tests may miss.
Extended Detection Window in Brinkhaven, OH.
With a detection window of up to 90 days, hair follicle tests allow employers a thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history. This longer-period insight provides a broader perspective, aiding in making informed decisions regarding employment and compliance with substance policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Brinkhaven, OH.
Hair follicle tests reduce the possibility of sample adulteration significantly. Designed to deliver reliable and unquestionable results, these tests minimize the risks of tampering, ensuring the integrity of the testing process and ultimately fostering trust in the outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Brinkhaven, OH.
Accredited Drug Testing ensures ease of access with nationwide centers, facilitating quick and effortless testing services. The availability of facilities in numerous locations enables convenient appointment scheduling, reducing wait times and simplifying logistics for individuals and businesses alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Brinkhaven, OH.
Our process for hair drug testing is both simple and confidential, from ordering to receiving results. We prioritize user privacy, ensuring that all stages are handled with discretion and ease, alleviating any concerns regarding the confidentiality of the individuals involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Brinkhaven, OH.
We commit to offering competitive pricing paired with a quick turnaround time for results. Our service provides excellent value, ensuring that companies of varying sizes can access reliable testing without compromising on speed or quality, catering to budget constraints effectively.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Brinkhaven, OH.
Hair follicle drug tests provide precise and rapid results, crucial for the modern demands of testing. With an emphasis on accuracy, these tests effectively identify substance use, ensuring high reliability. The method’s speed in delivering results is unparalleled, a vital feature for efficient screening and decision-making processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Brinkhaven, OH.
Adopting hair follicle testing allows businesses to meet strict drug-free workplace policies efficiently, decreasing legal liabilities. This method enhances safety and compliance, offering employers peace of mind by upholding standards and ensuring a safer work environment for all employees.
