Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged timeline of alcohol and drug exposure by capturing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When sampled near the scalp, it can reveal a detection window reaching up to about three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section containing roughly 200 strands of hair (comparable in thickness to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, it’s advised to obtain 150mg of the sample. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be substituted. Head hair refers exclusively to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result primarily consists of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the laboratory’s system. This involves ensuring the sample was securely sealed and shipped, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary examination for drug abuse. While Screening is an economical method for eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive result demands verification to be valid in legal proceedings. Any samples indicating a presumptive positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the initial sample to prepare for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging procedure to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples deemed presumptively positive are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis pertains to the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Wood Village, OR
Hair follicle tests surpass traditional urine tests by providing more reliable detection and accuracy. The benefits of hair analysis include unrivaled sensitivity and a longer detection window that can capture frequency and patterns of substance use. This makes hair testing the go-to solution for organizations seeking a robust and thorough understanding of an individual's drug usage history, ensuring a safer workplace.
Extended Detection Window in Wood Village, OR
Through hair follicle testing, drug use can be monitored over an extended timeframe of up to 90 days, providing employers with a comprehensive overview of an individual's substance use history. This prolonged detection period allows them to make informed decisions based on a detailed understanding of applicants or current employees, enhancing the screening process and contributing to a substance-free environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Wood Village, OR
The structure of hair follicle drug testing significantly reduces the risk of sample tampering, offering results that are both reliable and difficult to question. This method's inherent characteristics prevent adulteration and manipulation, ensuring the authenticity of test outcomes and maintaining the integrity of the entire process, thereby fostering trust and reliability in drug evaluation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Wood Village, OR
Our extensive network of testing facilities ensures convenient access to drug testing services across the nation, including Wood Village. With numerous locations strategically positioned, individuals and employers can enjoy hassle-free and efficient access to testing, emphasizing convenience while ensuring quick and effective service delivery.
Simple, Confidential Process in Wood Village, OR
The hair follicle testing process is both straightforward and private, balancing simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering the test to collecting samples and obtaining results, the process ensures privacy safeguards, reassuring individuals about the discretion maintained throughout. This provides peace of mind and fosters trust in the testing system.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Wood Village, OR
Our competitive pricing strategy, paired with rapid result delivery, offers exceptional value. Companies, regardless of size, can benefit from our affordable rates without compromising on the quality of testing. Fast turnaround times ensure that organizations can make timely decisions, which is crucial in maintaining operational efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Wood Village, OR
Hair follicle tests offer precise and swift identification of substance use, enabling rapid yet reliable medical insights. This method delivers unparalleled accuracy, establishing it as the preferred choice for entities that require certainty and speed. The superior sensitivity of hair testing ensures that no substance consumption is overlooked, making it an essential tool for comprehensive analysis of potential drug use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Wood Village, OR
Employing hair follicle testing for drug screening promotes adherence to drug-free workplace programs, thereby minimizing legal liabilities and ensuring a safe working environment. This method provides certainty and peace of mind for employers, affirming their commitment to maintaining a stringent and compliant drug policy which benefits both the organization and its workforce.
