Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has been recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When cut near the scalp, it delivers a detection period of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and various drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, tamper-resistant, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for testing and confirmation. For additional measures such as EtG, supplementary panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for specimen weighing is suggested. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar amount of body hair can be gathered. When referring to head hair, it specifically means scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab analysis of a drug test result encompasses four core steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning deals with the preliminary handling of a sample into the lab’s framework. It involves ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data entry omitted by an automated custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for drugs of concern. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug presence in most samples, any positive results necessitate validation to be legally persuasive. Samples exhibiting presumptive positivity in Screening demand further confirmation.
Should a sample return a presumptive positive result in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction stage. At this juncture, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the challenging nature of hair drug testing.
Verification of any positive Screening findings is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All samples presumptive for positivity undergo washing prior to confirmation if required. The complete lab protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests", the evaluation is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
Rockford, OH businesses are increasingly opting for hair follicle drug tests due to their superior detection capabilities. These tests provide a more comprehensive view of substance use history over urine tests, with a broader detection range and minimized risk of tampering, offering a reliable choice for strict compliance with workplace policies.
Extended Detection Window
In Rockford, OH, the advantage of hair follicle testing lies in its extended detection window, spanning up to 90 days, a period far surpassing standard urine tests. This wide detection span enables employers to assess an employee's long-term drug history, ensuring a more thorough evaluation for workplace safety and compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
Hair follicle testing in Rockford, OH, showcases a significant resistance to tampering, providing reliable results consistently. Unlike urine tests, which are prone to sample manipulation, hair tests come with inherent safeguards, ensuring authentic and unquestionable outcomes, crucial for maintaining integrity in drug screening processes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations
In Rockford, OH, testing convenience is paramount. Our nationwide centers ensure quick and easy access to drug testing services, minimizing frustration. Local test centers offer hassle-free solutions, making Accredited Drug Testing the first choice for individuals and businesses seeking efficient testing options.
Simple, Confidential Process
In Rockford, OH, our hair follicle testing process guarantees simplicity and confidentiality. Easily order your test, complete the sampling, and receive results with utmost privacy. Understanding concerns regarding data security, we ensure a seamless, discreet journey from test order to result, placing your peace of mind first.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
Our Rockford, OH-based testing services offer excellent value, with competitive pricing structures ensuring affordability for businesses regardless of size. Experience the advantage of fast turnaround times, delivering results swiftly and reliably, enhancing decision-making processes without straining your budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Rockford, OH, hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched reliability and precision in detecting substance use. Unlike urine tests, these tests pinpoint drug use accurately, delivering swift results without compromise. Their high accuracy rate ensures peace of mind for employers and legal bodies, maintaining a drug-free environment effectively.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
By choosing hair follicle testing in Rockford, OH, employers align with stringent drug-free workplace policies, significantly reducing the risk of legal complications. This testing method enhances workplace safety, offering assurance and peace of mind, knowing that compliance is continuously upheld, ensuring a zero-tolerance environment.
