Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as a potent method for identifying substance use. It captures historical data of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers in hair strands. When collected near the scalp, hair offers up to roughly a 3-month detection range for these substances. Hair is easy to gather, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (about the width of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, the optimum sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG testing, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler's scale to measure the specimen is recommended. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. The term "head hair" specifically denotes scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary steps in laboratory processing of a drug test are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial entry of a sample into the laboratory system. It involves ensuring the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for drugs. Though it is an economical method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for court admissibility. Any presumptive positives detected during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample shows presumptive positivity at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the primary sample and prepared for Extraction. This stage isolates drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.
Confirmatory analysis of any positive screening result employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as required. The holistic laboratory procedure 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: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Richwood, OH
Moreover, hair follicle testing can reveal a history of substance use that urine tests might miss, especially for those attempting to abstain for a short period before testing. This makes it a more trustworthy option for employers in Richwood, OH, aiming to maintain a drug-free workplace policy.
Extended Detection Window in Richwood, OH
Employers in Richwood, OH, benefit from an extended detection window of up to 90 days offered by hair follicle testing. This extended timeframe allows for a comprehensive understanding of an employee's or applicant's substance use history.
With hair follicle testing, companies gain a long-term view of drug use behavior, providing a robust overview of an individual's past substance intake and ensuring more informed hiring and retention decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Richwood, OH
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in Richwood, OH, is its resistance to tampering. Unlike urine tests, which can be adulterated with synthetic additives or drug-masking agents, hair samples are collected under strict observation, ensuring their integrity.
Employers can rely on hair follicle tests to produce authentic results, eliminating the doubt associated with sample manipulation, making it an essential tool in drug testing protocols.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Richwood, OH
Our nationwide network of testing centers, including those in Richwood, OH, ensures that hair follicle drug testing is accessible and convenient for all.
The ease of access to testing facilities means companies and individuals can quickly get tested without the hassle, experiencing the efficiency and reliability of our services firsthand.
Simple, Confidential Process in Richwood, OH
Understanding the concern for privacy, our hair follicle testing process in Richwood, OH, is designed to be simple and confidential. Ordering, taking the test, and receiving results is straightforward, ensuring ease of use.
We prioritize client privacy at every stage, ensuring that all personal details and test results are handled with the utmost confidentiality and security.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Richwood, OH
Offering competitive pricing, our hair follicle tests provide excellent value for companies in Richwood, OH, regardless of size.
Not only do we offer affordable solutions, but our fast turnaround times ensure that results are delivered promptly, helping businesses make informed decisions without delay, balancing cost-effectiveness with reliability
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Richwood, OH
When it comes to drug testing, hair follicle methods stand out for their longevity and precision in detection. This method provides unmatched accuracy in identifying substance use, thanks to its ability to capture an extensive timeframe of drug and alcohol intake, ensuring that employers in Richwood, OH, can trust the results they receive.
In Richwood, Ohio, one can expect the results from hair follicle tests to be delivered swiftly, without sacrificing accuracy. This method is adept at identifying a range of substances, making it an ideal choice for workplaces seeking dependable drug testing solutions. Fast results mean quicker hiring decisions and better peace of mind for all parties involved.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Richwood, OH
Ensuring workplace safety and adhering to drug-free policies is significantly enhanced for employers in Richwood, OH, with hair follicle testing. The tests not only comply with regulatory standards but also provide conclusive evidence, reducing legal and operational risks.
Companies employing hair follicle testing demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a safe and productive environment, providing peace of mind and safeguarding their reputation.
