Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has grown to be viewed as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Through the capture of biomarkers in the fibers of an emerging hair strand, hair delivers an extended history of alcohol and drug use. When obtained close to the scalp, hair samples can offer a detection period of roughly 3 months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, moderately hard to tamper with, and easily transportable.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for screening and confirmatory purposes. For EtG, add-ons, or assessments beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. The specimen should be weighed using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent volume of body hair is permissible. "Head hair" pertains exclusively to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves registering a sample into the laboratory’s framework initially. This process verifies the correct sealing and shipping of the sample, generates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and supplements any data not included by an electronic chain of custody system.
During the Screening phase, there is an expeditious preliminary scan for drugs of misuse. While Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use in most cases, any positive findings must be corroborated to stand in legal proceedings. Samples that show a presumptive positive during Screening require further confirmatory measures.
Should a sample display a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the primary specimen and readied for Extraction. This process involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug screening is the most intricate method to perform.
The Confirmation of any positive screening result is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples showing presumptive positives are cleansed beforehand as necessary. The entirety of the laboratory process, from Accessioning through to Confirmation, is scrutinized in compliance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation as well as the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly dubbed as "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bates, OR
Hair follicle testing presents various advantages over traditional urine tests. With its ability to detect a wider range of substances over a longer period, it provides superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests that are limited to recent drug use, hair testing captures a more comprehensive picture of an individual's substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Bates, OR
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days back, this method offers employers a more thorough insight into an individual's substance habits. This expanded timeline ensures that long-term patterns, rather than isolated incidents, inform critical employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bates, OR
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the possibility of sample tampering, ensuring that results remain reliable and unquestionable. This resistance to adulteration sets them apart from other testing methods, providing a trustworthy assessment of an individual's drug use. Employers can be confident that the potential for manipulation is greatly reduced.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bates, OR
Accredited Drug Testing guarantees ease of access through its comprehensive network of nationwide testing centers, offering convenient options right in Bates, OR. Our local facilities ensure that the testing process is swift and hassle-free, providing efficient service without disruption to your schedule.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bates, OR
Our testing process is designed to be straightforward and respectful of privacy. Ordering, completing, and receiving results is handled with discretion, ensuring a seamless and confidential experience. Clients can rest assured that personal data is protected throughout the testing journey, allowing for peace of mind.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bates, OR
At Accredited Drug Testing, affordability and efficiency are at the forefront. We provide competitive pricing and a fast turnaround time that offers exceptional value to businesses of all sizes. Whether large or small, companies can benefit from prompt results that aid in maintaining policy compliance without breaking the bank.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bates, OR
Hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and speed, making them a top choice for detecting substance use. Employing advanced technology, these tests provide results with high accuracy. The speed and reliability give employers confidence in maintaining a drug-free workplace, ensuring swift decision-making based on dependable data.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bates, OR
Implementing hair follicle testing not only boosts compliance with workplace drug-free policies but also provides employers with peace of mind. By reducing legal risks and enhancing workplace safety, this method ensures that companies can maintain a secure environment, protecting both the business and its employees from potential liabilities.
