Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the strands' structure as they grow. Obtaining hair from near the scalp allows a maximum detection timeframe of nearly three months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and convenient for transportation.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of around 200 strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) from the scalp yields 100mg of hair, optimal for analysis. For EtG testing, additional parameters, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. We suggest measuring the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair not be present, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be utilized. "Head hair" specifies scalp hair exclusively, whereas "body hair" includes all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The drug test laboratory processing involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the introductory step involving the integration of a sample into the lab system. It encompasses the confirmation of sample sealing and shipping integrity, generating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any extra data required beyond electronic chain of custody submissions.
Screening is a preliminary, rapid assessment for detecting drug abuse. Although cost-efficient for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screening necessitates further confirmation for legal validation. Presumptive positive samples identified in Screening mandate secondary verification.
In cases of presumptive positives during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and subjected to Extraction. This phase involves isolating drugs from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the challenges of conducting hair drug screenings.
Verification of positive screenings is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are meticulously cleaned before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests," this testing type examines the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Saint Marys, OH reveals remarkable benefits. Unlike urine tests, hair follicle tests maintain superior detection performance, offering longer detection windows and enhanced reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Saint Marys, OH is a standout benefit from hair follicle testing. It provides a 90-day overview into drug use, offering comprehensive insights beneficial in making informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Saint Marys, OH significantly curtails sample manipulation risks. Hair follicle tests provide results that are nearly impossible to adulterate, ensuring undeniable reliability.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Saint Marys, OH ensure easy access to our testing services. Our extensive network provides quick, hassle-free testing, accommodating clients efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Saint Marys, OH ensures privacy and ease. From ordering tests, to taking them, and receiving results, the process respects confidentiality and simplicity.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Saint Marys, OH deliver value and convenience. Competitive pricing structures make hair follicle testing accessible for businesses of all sizes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Saint Marys, OH emphasize the precision of hair follicle tests. These tests deliver superior accuracy, detecting substances efficiently. Results are processed quickly, ensuring individuals and employers gain timely insight.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Saint Marys, OH revolve around ensuring adherence to zero-tolerance substance policies. Hair follicle testing helps mitigate legal risks and boost workplace safety.
