Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair provides a comprehensive history of substance use by embedding biomarkers in the fibers of the hair shaft as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer roughly a 3-month window for alcohol and drug detection. Hair is easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to send.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a sample of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for specimen weighing. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair may be obtained. Note that head hair refers specifically to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is integrated into a laboratory’s system. It involves verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplemental data entry not available via an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a preliminary assessment for drug presence. While it is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Presumptively positive samples from Screening require secondary validation.
During the Screening stage, if a sample shows presumptive positivity, additional hair is extracted from the primary specimen and prepared for Extraction. This stage involves retrieving drugs from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging methodology.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS is used to confirm any positive screening results. All presumptive positive samples are washed prior to confirmation when necessary. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the common reference as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair shaft, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp
Choosing hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests in Oakridge, OR, means superior detection and reliability. Hair tests offer a broad detection window, capturing substance use that might be missed by urine tests. This method is nearly impervious to manipulation, presenting accurate results that instill confidence in both employers and individuals.
In Oakridge, OR, hair follicle testing provides an extensive detection window, extending up to 90 days. This offers employers a comprehensive view of an individual’s long-term substance history, enabling them to assess potential hires or current employees more effectively, ensuring informed decision-making.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle tests in Oakridge, OR, minimizes the risk of sample manipulation. This testing method ensures that the results are reliable and trustworthy, safeguarding against attempts to sway outcomes or compromise the integrity of the testing process.
Our nationwide testing centers, including locations in Oakridge, OR, provide accessible and convenient services. We ensure that clients can easily and swiftly access our comprehensive testing solutions, eliminating hassle and improving the customer experience across various locations.
In Oakridge, OR, the process of hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, we prioritize privacy, ensuring that both individuals and organizations experience a seamless and secure process, addressing any concerns about confidentiality.
Affordable pricing and fast turnaround are hallmarks of our services in Oakridge, OR. We deliver excellent value for various businesses, regardless of size, ensuring access to top-tier testing solutions while keeping costs achievable and turnaround times minimal.
In Oakridge, OR, hair follicle drug tests are known for delivering fast and precise results. Their accuracy in detecting a wide array of substances ensures reliability for employers and organizations. The quick processing time helps clients make informed decisions swiftly, without compromising on the detail or credibility of the findings.
Oakridge, OR employers can maintain compliance and peace of mind using hair follicle testing to enforce drug-free workplace policies. This approach not only mitigates potential legal risks but also fosters a safer and more productive work environment.
