Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has become recognized as an effective method for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a prolonged history of substance intake by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. A collection from near the scalp can offer up to a 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is easy, hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the preferred amount for testing and verification. For additional tests like EtG add-ons or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. Should scalp hair be unavailable, the same volume of body hair is acceptable. When we mention head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The key steps in processing a drug test in the lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial incorporation of a sample into a lab's database. This step ensures the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data entries not handled by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. While it's an economical means to exclude drug use in most samples, any positive result needs affirmation for legal acceptance. Samples testing presumptive positive in Screening require further verification.
Should a sample show a presumptive positive at the Screening stage, more hair gets removed from the original sample for Extraction. In this stage, substances are extracted from hair at a lesser concentration than with other testing mediums (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening particularly challenging to conduct.
The final Confirmation of any positive screen is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle below the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hamden, OH
Hair testing surpasses the traditional urine test with comprehensive accuracy and reliable detection. The extended detection window and reduced tampering risks make hair follicle tests the superior choice for those seeking thorough substance screening without compromises.
Extended Detection Window in Hamden, OH
Utilizing hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection period of up to 90 days. This long-term view provides employers with in-depth insight into substance usage histories, supporting informed hiring and retention decisions with a wealth of relevant information.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hamden, OH
Hair follicle tests boast a robust resistance to tampering, significantly lowering the risk of sample adulteration. This ensures that results remain reliable and beyond dispute, protecting the integrity of the testing process and providing peace of mind to all stakeholders.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hamden, OH
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures that drug testing remains accessible, quick, and uncomplicated. With locations throughout the nation, obtaining testing services is hassle-free, meeting the needs of individuals and organizations with ease and efficiency.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hamden, OH
The process for ordering, administering, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential. Our procedures prioritize privacy and ease of use, addressing all concerns related to the security and simplicity of obtaining and handling test results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hamden, OH
We offer competitive pricing structures coupled with rapid turnaround times, providing excellent value for organizations of any size. This commitment to affordability and swiftness ensures companies receive cost-effective solutions and peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hamden, OH
Hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and speed. Known for their highly accurate detection capabilities, these tests quickly and reliably identify substance use. Individuals and employers alike benefit from the efficient results, ensuring that substance histories are understood with clarity and timeliness.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hamden, OH
By employing hair follicle testing, companies enhance compliance with workplace drug policies, diminishing legal risks and bolstering workplace safety. This testing method assures employers of sustained adherence to drug-free regulations, promoting peace of mind across all organizational levels.
