Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective instrument for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged record of drug and alcohol use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When gathered near the scalp, hair provides an approximate three-month window for detecting drugs and alcohol. It is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section containing about 200 strands of hair (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advised. Utilizing a jeweler's scale to weigh the specimen is preferable. If scalp hair is lacking, a comparable quantity of body hair can be obtained. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other kinds of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary processing of a specimen into a lab's system. This phase includes ensuring the sample was sealed and transported correctly, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While it is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to be permissible in legal settings. Any samples that are initially positive in Screening need an additional confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, extra hair from the original specimen is extracted for the Extraction phase. In this phase, drugs are retrieved from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other approaches (such as urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair drug testing is the most challenging approach to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being often termed "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Germano, OH
Hair follicle testing offers a broader detection window while urine tests primarily indicate recent drug use. Compared to urine tests, hair samples better reflect long-term substance habits, making it especially useful for employers making informed decisions quickly.
Extended Detection Window in Germano, OH
Hair follicle tests maintain an extended detection window, offering insights into substance habits for up to 90 days before the test. This extended view is invaluable for employers seeking a thorough understanding of an individual's history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Germano, OH
Hair follicle tests significantly deter sample adulteration risks, creating a trustworthy testing process. When seeking reliable results, these tests ensure a tamper-proof method.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Germano, OH
Our testing centers across Germano, OH, and nationwide provide hassle-free access to services. Quick and efficient, our locations ensure you access what you need without obstacles.
Simple, Confidential Process in Germano, OH
The process in Germano, OH, is straightforward and private. From ordering to receiving test results, privacy concerns are prioritized, ensuring seamless procedures for individuals.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Germano, OH
Our pricing is competitive, and results are prompt, offering great value for organizations of various sizes. Through affordability and efficiency, we ensure client satisfaction.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Germano, OH
In Germano, OH, hair follicle drug tests boast unparalleled precision and speed in identifying substance use. Known for their reliability and speed, these tests are crucial for quick verifications.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Germano, OH
Employers in Germano, OH, find peace of mind using hair follicle tests to comply with drug-free policies. This precision reduces legal issues and supports a secure work environment.