Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly perceived as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by encapsulating biomarkers within the growing hair strand fibers. When hair is taken near the scalp, it offers an approximate detection timeframe of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches and containing approximately 200 strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We suggest measuring the sample with a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. Here, head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase, incorporating the sample into the laboratory's system. This step guarantees the sample's proper sealing and shipping, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data not provided by an electronic chain of custody process.
Screening is a preliminary rapid examination for substances of abuse. While screening is an economical method to rule out drug use on most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to stand in a court of law. Any samples with a presumptive positive during Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
Upon a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. This step extracts drugs from hair at a lower concentration than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle located under the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Trumps Urine Testing in Harrisonville, OH
Hair follicle testing offers significant benefits over traditional urine tests. With a detection window of up to 90 days, it surpasses urine tests, which can only cover a few days.
Extended Detection Window in Harrisonville, OH
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged period of up to 90 days. This extended window allows employers to gain a more complete understanding of an individual’s substance use history.
This capability gives employers a reliable insight into behavior that shorter-term tests like urine cannot match.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Harrisonville, OH
Hair follicle tests offer an excellent deterrent against manipulation. The collection process and analysis are designed to minimize the risk of adulteration, making results trustworthy.
Convenient Nationwide and Local Testing in Harrisonville, OH
Our testing centers are strategically located nationwide, including locally in Harrisonville, OH, ensuring easy access to hair follicle testing services. This allows for quick and hassle-free procedures when needed.
With our localized presence, getting tested is straightforward and stress-free, providing a convenient option for individuals and employers alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Harrisonville, OH
Our testing process is designed to be straightforward and maintain confidentiality at every step. Ordering and taking a hair follicle test is streamlined to address privacy concerns and ensure ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Harrisonville, OH
We offer competitive pricing for hair follicle testing, ensuring it is accessible for businesses of all sizes. Alongside reasonable costs, our quick turnaround times provide excellent value.
Hair follicle drug tests are praised for their speed and precision in Harrisonville, OH. Their ability to quickly detect substances makes them invaluable for employers and individuals alike.
Accuracy is critical, and hair testing offers a high level of assurance, making it a reliable choice for those seeking dependable detection methods.
The results from hair follicle tests in Harrisonville, OH, are both fast and accurate, leaving little room for error. This reliability has made them the preferred method in many drug testing scenarios.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Harrisonville, OH
Hair follicle testing aids in maintaining a drug-free work environment, aligning with policy requirements. By employing this method, employers can ensure compliance while enhancing workplace safety.
