Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective resource for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's fibers during its growth. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reveal up to roughly a three-month detection period for alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, moderately resistant to tampering, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch length sample of about 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for assessment and verification. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. We suggest measuring the specimen with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is missing, an equivalent amount of body hair may be taken. When we mention head hair, we refer exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair pertains to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Procedure Summary
The laboratory process for analyzing a drug test result encompasses four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the sample's initial integration into a laboratory's system. This process includes confirming that the sample was adequately sealed and sent, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplemental data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug use for most samples, a positive result requires verification to be usable in court. Samples that are initially positive in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
If a specimen is initially positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is drawn from the original sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations than in other procedures (e.g., urine or oral fluid), reaffirming that hair drug screening remains the most complex to execute.
Any positive screening outcome is verified through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All initially positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory operation from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: While commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests assess the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Malta, OH
Hair tests offer superior detection accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. The extended detection window and tamper-resistant nature of hair testing significantly enhance its effectiveness in drug screening. Employers benefit from this dependable method, ensuring a drug-free workplace.
Extended Detection Window in Malta, OH
Hair follicle testing boasts a detection window of up to 90 days, far exceeding that of urine tests. This extended period provides employers with a comprehensive view of an individual’s substance history, aiding in the assessment of potential hires or current employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Malta, OH
Hair follicle tests offer an effective solution for reducing sample tampering risks. Their robust nature ensures that the results are reliable and unquestionable, providing a trustworthy means for evaluating substance use history without the worry of adulteration.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Malta, OH
Our expansive network of testing centers ensures accessible and convenient services across the country, including in Malta. This extensive availability allows for quick and hassle-free access to testing, ensuring that services are within reach whenever needed.
Simple, Confidential Process in Malta, OH
Our straightforward and confidential testing process addresses privacy concerns and simplifies the procedure from start to finish. Ordering tests, attending them, and receiving results are seamless and discreet, ensuring the protection of personal information throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Malta, OH
Our competitive pricing structures combined with fast turnaround times offer excellent value for businesses of all sizes. We ensure high-quality drug testing services at rates that accommodate budgetary constraints while maintaining peace of mind for companies relying on quick and accurate results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Malta, OH
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and speed in detecting substance use. These tests provide quick and reliable results, ensuring that employers can make informed decisions based on accurate data. Their streamlined process minimizes wait times while delivering high levels of accuracy in identifying drug use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Malta, OH
By utilizing hair follicle testing, employers can ensure strict adherence to drug-free policies. This method reduces legal risks and enhances workplace safety, giving employers peace of mind about the integrity and reliability of their drug testing procedures.
