Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has established itself as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows, offering a long-term history of alcohol and other drug consumption. When taken close to the scalp, hair can provide a detection window for drugs and alcohol of up to roughly three months. The collection process is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and convenient for transportation.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of around 200 strands of hair (around the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, it is advised to use 150mg of the sample. We suggest weighing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In instances where scalp hair is inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be taken. When mentioning head hair, it refers solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary phases in the laboratory processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial handling of a sample within a laboratory’s system. This step involves ensuring that the sample was sealed and transported appropriately, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial swift evaluation for drug abuse. While it serves as a cost-effective approach to exclude drug use for most samples, a positive screening must be confirmed to remain admissible in legal contexts. Any sample that presumptively tests positive in Screening necessitates follow-up confirmation.
If a sample turns out to be presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for preparation in the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is considered the most intricate methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as needed. The whole laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation in accordance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the test focuses on analyzing the hair strand and does not involve the hair follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rosemount, OH
In the realm of drug testing, hair follicle testing has clear advantages over traditional urine tests. Its superior detection accuracy and reliability make it the method of choice for many organizations.
Employers and legal systems alike appreciate the extended detection window and the assurance of tamper-resistant sample collection, making hair testing a robust solution for modern drug screening challenges.
Extended Detection Window in Rosemount, OH
Hair follicle tests are unparalleled in their ability to detect drug use over extended periods, offering up to a 90-day history. This allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use history.
Such a detection window far exceeds that of traditional methods, providing a more holistic view of an applicant or employee's behavioral patterns, especially for roles demanding high responsibility and trust.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rosemount, OH
Hair follicle testing is a formidable method in reducing sample adulteration risks. Its inherent design ensures reliable and unquestionable results, providing a significant edge over other testing forms.
The difficulty of tampering with a hair sample compared to a fluid sample contributes immensely to the integrity of the process, offering confidence in the results furnished.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rosemount, OH
Our extensive network of nationwide testing facilities, including local options in Rosemount, OH, facilitates easy access to hair follicle testing services.
With widespread availability, our centers provide rapid, hassle-free testing experiences, ensuring no delay or difficulty in undergoing drug testing procedures, an invaluable convenience for both employers and individuals.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rosemount, OH
Our process for ordering and undergoing hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential. We prioritize privacy in every step, from scheduling to results delivery.
This streamlines the user experience, offering reassurance and ease, thereby encouraging transparency and openness in addressing substance use concerns without apprehension.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rosemount, OH
Competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times make our hair follicle drug tests an attractive option for companies of all sizes. We provide excellent value without compromising quality.
Our services are designed to be both economical and swift, assuring that businesses receive timely results conducive to decision-making processes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rosemount, OH
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and swiftness in delivering results. Their accuracy in detecting a spectrum of substances is unmatched, providing peace of mind to employers and individuals alike.
With the ability to uncover substance use effectively, these tests stand out in the field of drug testing. Their rapid processing and reliability make them a preferred choice for many seeking comprehensive screening.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rosemount, OH
Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns with enforcing drug-free workplace policies. This strategy reduces potential legal risks and enhances workplace safety.
The rigorous standards maintained in hair testing assure employers of the efficacy and legal stance in managing substance-related concerns.
