Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a lasting record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer a detection time frame of up to about three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for transportation.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) cut closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for analysis and verification. For EtG, supplementary tests, or screens exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. By "head hair," we specifically mean scalp hair. "Body hair" pertains to all other types, like facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step where a sample is logged into the lab system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any other data input required beyond the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for common drugs of abuse. It’s a budget-friendly way to discount drug use for most samples. However, a screen showing positive results must undergo further testing for legal acceptability. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening need a subsequent confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at concentrations lower than those of other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing notably challenging to conduct.
Confirming any positive screen outcome is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are washed when necessary before confirmation. The whole lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being labeled as "hair follicle tests," the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Simms, OK
In Simms, OK, hair follicle testing proves superior to traditional urine tests due to its enhanced detection capabilities and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair follicle analysis tracks drug use over an extended period, providing a comprehensive substance history, which is invaluable for employers and legal professionals.
Extended Detection Window in Simms, OK
One of the key strengths of hair follicle testing in Simms, OK, is its long detection window, which extends up to 90 days. This makes it an advantageous choice for employers seeking a broad insight into an individual's substance use, allowing better informed hiring and monitoring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Simms, OK
Hair follicle drug tests are markedly resistant to tampering, reducing the chances of sample adulteration significantly. This tamper-proof nature ensures that the results are both reliable and accurate. In Simms, OK, this provides peace of mind to those relying on drug testing for screening purposes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Simms, OK
The convenience of having nationwide testing centers, including in Simms, OK, ensures seamless access to drug testing services. Customers benefit from a quick and straightforward process, enabling hassle-free scheduling and testing experiences across various locales.
Simple, Confidential Process in Simms, OK
In Simms, OK, our hair follicle testing services offer a simple and private process, from scheduling the test to receiving results. This confidential approach respects individual privacy, providing peace of mind and an easy path to reliable substance testing assistance.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Simms, OK
Our testing services in Simms, OK, boast competitive pricing with a fast turnaround time, providing significant value for businesses of varying sizes. Companies benefit not only from our cost-effective approach but also from the peace of mind knowing their testing needs are met promptly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Simms, OK
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their high degree of accuracy and rapid results delivery. This testing method excels in identifying substance use with precise outcomes, making it a trusted choice in Simms, OK. The reliability of the results ensures that individuals and organizations receive trustworthy data for making informed decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Simms, OK
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Simms, OK, assures compliance with workplace drug-free policies, mitigating legal risks and fostering a safer workplace environment. Employers gain confidence knowing that their drug testing process upholds the highest standards of integrity and reliability.
