Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of these substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands of actively growing hair. When obtained near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to around 90 days for alcohol and drugs. It is straightforward to collect, relatively challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
An ideal sample for screening and confirmation, which consists of a 1.5-inch section of approximately 200 hair strands (akin to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for measuring the sample is recommended. In instances where scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The primary stages within the lab processing for a drug test result encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary incorporation of a sample into a lab's system. This process includes validation that the sample was appropriately sealed and transported, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial swift assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to negate drug use on the majority of samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples that are preliminarily positive during Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample exhibit a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample to prepare it for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other practices (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex methodology to execute.
Positive screening outcomes are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples with presumptive positives are washed before confirmation if necessary. The full laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is often used, but the actual test analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Perkins, OK
Hair testing outperforms traditional urine methods in terms of detection accuracy and reliability. Its extended detection window offers a wider insight into substance use history, making it superior for thorough evaluations. Employers find hair tests more difficult to cheat, maintaining integrity and aligning with strict zero-tolerance policies.
Extended Detection Window in Perkins, OK
Hair follicle testing uncovers drug use over an extended period, reaching up to 90 days. This longer detection window provides employers with a more comprehensive understanding of an applicant's or employee's past substance use, aiding in informed decision-making regarding hiring and workplace safety.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Perkins, OK
Unlike other methods, hair follicle tests drastically reduce the chances of sample manipulation. This tamper-resistant approach provides results that are reliable and beyond question, ensuring confidence in the integrity of the testing process and outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Perkins, OK
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation ensures effortless and swift access to hair testing services. Whether you're in Perkins, OK, or elsewhere, the convenience of our locations simplifies the process, offering hassle-free testing for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Perkins, OK
The process for ordering, taking, and receiving results is streamlined for simplicity and confidentiality. Clients can trust that their privacy is prioritized, and the straightforward approach alleviates any concerns, ensuring a seamless experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Perkins, OK
Our competitive pricing and quick result delivery provide great value. Businesses of all sizes benefit from efficient and cost-effective hair follicle testing, gaining peace of mind with our reliable service and prompt turnaround times.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Perkins, OK
Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched precision and speed. This method excels in detecting substance use, providing highly accurate and quick results. Whether it's for pre-employment screening or ongoing compliance checks, the efficiency and reliability of hair testing stand unrivaled in ensuring substance-free workplaces.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Perkins, OK
Implementing hair follicle testing aids in adhering to workplace drug-free policies. This practice diminishes legal risks and elevates workplace safety. Employers can rest assured knowing that their policies are well-enforced, protecting both the company's interests and its employees.
