Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective means for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair captures enduring records of alcohol and drug usage by preserving biomarkers in the fibers of the hair as it grows. If taken near the scalp, hair might offer nearly a 3-month span for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp offers 100mg, which is the preferred amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the hair is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for weighing the sample is recommended. Should scalp hair be unobtainable, an equivalent amount of body hair may be used. Head hair pertains solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair pertains to all remaining hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The core processes in laboratory analysis of a drug test outcome consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial handling of a sample in a laboratory’s system. This process ensures the sample is correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in any absent data not provided by an electronic custody chain system.
Screening conducts a preliminary swift evaluation for drug use. Although Screening is a budget-friendly method for discounting drug usage in most samples, a positive Screen must be verified for legal acceptance. Any samples that are tentatively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
In cases of a tentative positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are separated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), which is why hair drug testing is the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screen result utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All tentatively positive samples are cleaned before confirmation, if necessary. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Ashley, PA
Hair testing offers a distinct advantage over traditional urine tests by providing unparalleled detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which have a shorter detection window, hair follicle tests can uncover drug use patterns over a longer period, making them superior for employers seeking a comprehensive view of substance history.
Extended Detection Window in Ashley, PA
The extended detection window of hair follicle tests, reaching up to 90 days, gives employers a thorough perspective of an individual’s drug usage history. This long window ensures a comprehensive analysis of potential substance use, aiding employers in making informed decisions about applicants or employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ashley, PA
Hair follicle testing is a preferable option due to its high resistance to tampering. The collection and analysis process is designed to significantly reduce the chance of adulteration, providing reliable and unquestionable results, thereby ensuring the integrity of the test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Ashley, PA
Our expansive network of testing centers across the nation, including local sites in Ashley, PA, facilitates easy and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. With numerous locations, scheduling a test that fits your timeline is simple and efficient.
Simple, Confidential Process in Ashley, PA
The hair follicle testing process in Ashley, PA is designed to be simple and confidential. Ordering, attending the testing, and receiving results is straightforward, ensuring privacy and ease of use. This approach addresses privacy concerns effectively for all individuals.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Ashley, PA
Our competitive pricing structures and rapid turnaround times provide excellent value for companies of any size. By offering affordable rates and swift processing, businesses in Ashley, PA can enjoy peace of mind while managing their budget effectively.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Ashley, PA
Hair follicle drug tests in Ashley, PA are renowned for their precision and swiftness. With advanced technology, these tests can detect substance use with high accuracy. Results are often delivered quickly, offering a dependable method for individuals and companies alike to confirm drug use history.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ashley, PA
By utilizing hair follicle testing, employers in Ashley, PA can ensure compliance with drug-free policies, significantly reducing legal risks and enhancing workplace safety. This testing method delivers peace of mind, knowing the company adheres to regulatory standards and provides a safe working environment.
