Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair encapsulates a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug intake by preserving biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. When the sample is taken from near the scalp, hair can detect alcohol and drugs for up to around three months. The collection of hair is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair specimen consisting of roughly 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in thickness) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, considered optimal for both screening and confirmatory procedures. For EtG, additional tests, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, it's advisable to use 150mg of hair. It's suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. Should scalp hair not be an option, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be submitted. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other variants (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The primary phases in a lab's drug testing workflow are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of the initial intake of a specimen into a laboratory system, ensuring the sample was properly sealed and transported, generating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry omitted by an electronic custody system.
Screening constitutes a preliminary assessment for substance misuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient means to negate drug usage across most samples, courts require confirmation of any positive results. Presumptive positives from Screening necessitate a confirmatory test.
For samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the specimen for the Extraction phase. At this point, drugs are isolated from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug testing the most challenging to execute.
Confirmation for any positive screen result is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. As necessary, samples with presumptive positives undergo a washing process before confirmation. This comprehensive laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to evaluations by the CAP (College of American Pathologists) and ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often labeled "hair follicle tests," the procedure assesses the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Greenfield, OK
Hair follicle tests offer superior accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. Their ability to detect a wider range of substances over an extended period makes them ideal for rigorous drug policies. Unlike urine tests that often cover only a short timeframe, hair testing provides a more comprehensive assessment, offering unbeatable reliability for employers and regulatory bodies.
Extended Detection Window in Greenfield, OK
The substantial detection window of hair follicle testing, stretching up to 90 days, gives employers a detailed overview of an individual's drug use history. This extensive timeframe allows for monitoring long-term habits rather than recent activities, serving as an invaluable tool for organizations focusing on long-term compliance and policy maintenance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Greenfield, OK
One of the key advantages of hair follicle tests is their resistance to tampering. It is considerably harder to adulterate a hair sample compared to other methods, granting reliable and irrefutable results. This robustness eliminates doubts concerning the authenticity of test results, assuring organizations that they are getting clear and honest information.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Greenfield, OK
With a wide network of testing centers nationwide, accessing drug testing services is both convenient and hassle-free. Our local facilities in Greenfield, OK, offer quick and easy access, ensuring that your testing needs are met with minimal disruption and maximum efficiency.
Simple, Confidential Process in Greenfield, OK
Our drug testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to taking it and receiving the results, we protect your privacy every step of the way. This ensures a seamless and anxiety-free experience for all involved, safeguarding sensitive information effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Greenfield, OK
Our competitive pricing and swift turnaround times set us apart, delivering excellent value for companies of all sizes. You can rely on our efficient processes to provide rapid results without compromising on quality, ensuring your business remains vigilant and compliant at an economical cost.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Greenfield, OK
Hair follicle drug tests deliver rapid and precise outcomes, boasting high accuracy in tracing substance use. The thoroughness of these tests ensures that any substance consumed is detected efficiently. This accuracy allows individuals and organizations in Greenfield, OK, to make informed decisions about drug use and policy adherence.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Greenfield, OK
By utilizing hair follicle testing, employers can uphold drug-free workplace standards effectively. This testing method reduces legal liabilities and promotes a safer working environment. Adopting this comprehensive approach provides peace of mind, assuring compliance with relevant workplace safety regulations.
