Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of hair strands as they grow, hair offers a prolonged record of alcohol and drug usage. A sample taken close to the scalp can indicate the presence of these substances for a duration of up to three months. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to mail.
To obtain a suitable sample for analysis, a section of hair measuring 1.5 inches, encompassing approximately 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil), is recommended, yielding 100mg of hair ideal for initial and secondary tests. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. It is suggested that the specimen be weighed with a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is not present, a comparable quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair specify scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory drug testing process consists of four critical stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses integrating a sample into the laboratory’s system, confirming that the sample's seal and shipment meet standards, assigning a unique Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and finalizing any pending data entry not included in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as an expedited initial examination for controlled substances. Although cost-effective and able to rule out drug presence in most samples, a positive screening requires confirmation for legal acceptability. Presumptive positives from Screening necessitate additional validation.
Should a specimen test positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for preparation in the Extraction process. This phase involves retrieving drugs from hair at a substantially lower concentration than methods like urine or oral fluid tests, underscoring the complexity of hair drug testing.
Positive results from screenings are verified through techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Necessary pre-confirmation washing of presumptive positives is mandatory. Quality assurance from Accessioning to Confirmation is performed under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently called "hair follicle tests," the procedure involves examining the hair strand rather than the follicle itself under the scalp.
Traditional urine tests often fall short when compared to hair follicle testing's superior accuracy and reliability in Vale, OR. Hair tests are pivotal in their ability to detect a broader range of substances over a longer period. This comprehensive detection capability makes hair testing a more robust option, especially for employers who demand strict adherence to drug-free policies.
Hair follicle testing offers an up to 90-day detection window, giving a broad view of an individual’s substance use history in Vale, OR. This extensive period allows employers to make informed decisions about applicants and employees, ensuring a safer work environment by making visible any prolonged drug use.
The hair follicle testing method in Vale, OR, stands out for its tamper-resistant nature. It minimizes the possibility of sample adulteration, guaranteeing results that are both reliable and indisputable. This feature is particularly crucial for organizations looking to uphold the integrity of their drug screening practices without fear of manipulation.
With convenient nationwide testing locations, including choices in Vale, OR, our centers provide easy access to testing services. Ensuring a hassle-free process for individuals and companies alike, the widespread availability of our centers means quick and efficient service to meet all drug testing needs.
Understanding the need for a simple, confidential process in Vale, OR, our hair follicle testing service offers ease from ordering to receiving results. It prioritizes privacy while maintaining simplicity, assuring users a stress-free experience that guards their personal information at every step of the testing journey.
In Vale, OR, our hair follicle drug testing features competitive pricing and fast turnaround times, delivering exceptional value. Designed to fit budgets of all sizes, our service offers affordability without compromising on speed, ensuring businesses receive prompt results efficiently while managing costs effectively.
In Vale, OR, the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests are unmatched, providing fast and dependable results. These tests excel in detection accuracy, pinpointing substance use with remarkable precision. With cutting-edge testing technologies, clients can swiftly receive their results, making them a reliable choice for those seeking efficient and accurate drug screening solutions.
Employers in Vale, OR, gain compliance and peace of mind through hair follicle testing, aligning with drug-free workplace standards. This testing method reduces legal risks and significantly enhances workplace safety, securing a compliant and risk-free environment for businesses striving to maintain a drug-free workforce.
