Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests are increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged timeline of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands of the growing hair. Gathered near the scalp, hair samples can reveal drug and alcohol use up to roughly a 3-month span. Collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch section comprising about 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil thickness) nearest the scalp weighs around 100mg, which is the preferred quantity for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, additional screenings, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest weighing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. Head hair refers strictly to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The core phases in processing a drug test result in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step where a sample enters the lab's system. This entails checking that the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry that isn’t included via an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a swift preliminary evaluation for drug use. Screening offers a cost-effective approach to generally exclude drug utilization in most samples, but a positive result requires confirmation to be court-admissible. Samples that preliminarily test positive during Screening need additional confirmation.
Should a sample test positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are pulled from the hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), which is why hair drug screening is the most complex method to conduct.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods confirm any positive Screening results. All presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory process—from Accessioning to Confirmation—is evaluated under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and meets ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp
When comparing hair follicle and urine drug tests, hair testing excels thanks to its extended detection window and accuracy. In Millersburg, OH, individuals and businesses are choosing hair tests for their comprehensive nature. Long-term substance history detection provides a clearer picture of an individual's habits.
Unlike traditional urine tests that cover a shorter timeframe, hair tests offer a more detailed insight into substance use, which is invaluable for employers seeking dependable data.
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing in Millersburg, OH covers up to 90 days, significantly more than other methods. Employers gain assurance in understanding the substance use history of employees or applicants, aiding in informed decision-making.
This comprehensive insight is crucial for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace, offering a broader view than urine tests limited to days or weeks of detection.
Hair follicle tests in Millersburg, OH are favored for their tamper-resistant qualities. The methods used to collect and analyze hair samples greatly minimize the risk of adulteration, providing results that can be fully trusted.
Because hair samples are less susceptible to falsification compared to other testing methods, they offer unparalleled peace of mind to those relying on their accuracy.
Accessible testing options in Millersburg, OH and nationwide guarantee convenience for those needing reliable testing services. Clients benefit from hassle-free access to testing locations, ensuring compliance doesn’t come with the burden of travel.
By having numerous centers available, the process becomes simple and swift, eliminating the stress associated with finding reliable testing facilities.
Hair follicle testing in Millersburg, OH is simple and confidential, making the process seamless from start to finish. Ordering, taking, and receiving results is designed for ease and privacy, essential factors for both individuals and companies.
Many people rely on the straightforward nature of hair testing, as it maintains a high standard of confidentiality throughout all stages, reassuring all involved.
The competitive pricing and fast turnaround times of hair follicle tests in Millersburg, OH offer tremendous value. Businesses of all sizes appreciate the affordable cost structure that doesn't compromise on quality or speed.
Quick results are crucial in many contexts, and when paired with great value, it becomes clear why hair tests are a preferred choice for many employers and institutions.
In Millersburg, OH, hair follicle drug testing is recognized for its quick and reliable results. The precision provided by these tests ensures employers and individuals receive accurate data on substance use. Accuracy is key in critical situations, and the quick turnaround time solidifies their use in various professional settings.
Employers trust hair tests for their high level of reliability and swift delivery of results. With such a robust method, it's no surprise that hair testing continues to be a leader in the drug testing industry.
For Millersburg, OH employers, hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug policies, reducing potential legal issues and boosting safety. Adopting such precise methods results in stronger compliance and a commitment to maintaining a drug-free environment.
Foiling attempts to deceive a test, hair follicle testing builds confidence among employers who know they are doing everything possible to sustain a safe workplace.
