Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessments have come to be recognized as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged history of these substances by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When taken close to the scalp, hair can provide approximately a 90-day detection window for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat hard to tamper with, and easy to dispatch.
A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for screening and verification. For EtG, supplemental assessments, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest weighing the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar amount of body hair may be used. In the context of head hair, it refers specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The primary steps in laboratory processing of a drug test include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is incorporated into a lab’s system. This involves confirming the sample was appropriately sealed and shipped, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid examination for prohibited substances. Although Screening is an economical way to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples showing presumed positives in Screening need a secondary verification.
If a sample shows a presumed positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. In this phase, substances are removed from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing a challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as required. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is analyzed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specification and alignment with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Simons, OH
The advantages of hair testing over traditional urine tests are significant. Hair follicle tests offer superior detection accuracy and reliability, making them an ideal choice for comprehensive drug screening.
While urine tests are limited to recent usage, hair tests provide insight into an individual’s substance history over an extended period, ensuring a thorough review.
Extended Detection Window in Simons, OH
Hair follicle tests stand out for their extended detection window, covering up to 90 days of substance use. This broader scope offers employers a detailed view of a person's substance history.
For businesses and regulatory bodies in Simons, OH, this ensures a more complete screening process, aiding informed decision-making based on comprehensive substance use data.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Simons, OH
Hair follicle drug tests minimize the risk of tampering, offering reliable and unquestionable results. Unlike other methods, these tests are difficult to adulterate, ensuring credible outcomes.
Employers and authorities in Simons, OH, benefit from the confidence in results that come from using this tamper-resistant testing method, critical for maintaining trustworthiness in drug screening.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Simons, OH
Our extensive network of testing centers, including those in Simons, OH, offers easy access to testing services. Whether for local or nationwide needs, our centers provide a hassle-free experience.
Ensuring quick and convenient testing solutions, our facilities exemplify commitment to service quality and accessibility for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Simons, OH
The testing process is designed to be simple and confidential, from ordering to taking tests and receiving results. This ensures privacy and ease for all clients involved.
In Simons, OH, those in need of testing can confidently rely on our streamlined procedures, addressing privacy concerns effectively for all stakeholders.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Simons, OH
We provide competitive pricing and swift turnaround times, ensuring excellent value for businesses of varying sizes. Our approach supports budget-conscious operations without compromising quality.
Clients in Simons, OH, experience the benefits of cost-effective drug testing solutions combined with rapid result delivery, pivotal for organizational efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Simons, OH
Hair follicle testing offers unparalleled precision and speed in detecting substance use. Unlike other methods, it ensures a high level of accuracy, crucial for maintaining integrity in drug screening processes.
With quick turnaround times and dependable outcomes, this testing method proves essential for employers and individuals seeking reliable drug tests in Simons, OH.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Simons, OH
Employers using hair follicle testing ensure adherence to workplace drug-free policies, reducing the potential for legal issues and enhancing safety environments.
In Simons, OH, this testing method supports compliance and provides peace of mind, reinforcing a commitment to upholding a secure and responsible workplace.