Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a formidable method for spotting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as an archive of alcohol and drug activity by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reveal substance presence over approximately a 3-month period. It is straightforward to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising about 200 hair strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg, which is the preferred sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. We recommend using a jeweler’s scale for weighing. Should scalp hair be unobtainable, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. By head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary phases in the lab analysis journey of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the sample's preliminary integration into the lab’s framework. This step verifies proper sealing and dispatch of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in any outstanding data gaps not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs an initial brief assessment for substances of abuse. Despite being cost-efficient in excluding drug use for most samples, a positive outcome in Screening requires affirmation to stand in court. Samples that show presumptive positivity in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
Should a sample test positive presumptively during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial batch for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are retrieved from hair at substantially lower concentrations than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug evaluation is notably challenging.
Confirmation of any positive result during Screening undergoes validation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity are cleansed before confirmation when necessary. The holistic lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is subjected to review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being dubbed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bareville, PA
Hair follicle testing clearly surpasses traditional urine tests by offering superior accuracy and reliability. Key benefits include a broader detection window and a more in-depth analysis of substance use, aligning with rigorous policy and compliance demands. Contrary to urine tests, hair testing provides indisputable results, making it the preferred choice for employers.
Extended Detection Window in Bareville, PA
The extended detection capability of hair follicle testing is a notable advantage. By covering up to 90 days of drug history, it offers employers a thorough view of a candidate's substance use, far exceeding the shorter range of urine tests. This expanded timeline ensures a more comprehensive and informed evaluation process for long-term safety and performance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bareville, PA
Hair follicle testing significantly lowers the risk of sample tampering, delivering consistent and trustworthy results. The method's design prevents adulteration, shielding the integrity of the testing process. This reliability eliminates the uncertainties and vulnerabilities associated with other test types, ensuring confident decision-making.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bareville, PA
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide and in Bareville, PA, ensures easy access to drug testing services. Conveniently located facilities offer seamless, quick, and reliable testing experiences, eliminating hassles and delays. This national coverage guarantees that our comprehensive services are always within reach.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bareville, PA
The ease and confidentiality of our hair follicle test process prioritize user privacy. From ordering to obtaining results, the procedure is straightforward and discreet. Each step ensures user comfort and peace of mind, reassuring clients of their privacy during every phase, from scheduling to receiving results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bareville, PA
Our competitive pricing combined with rapid result delivery provides excellent value to businesses of all sizes. By offering accessible drug testing solutions, Accredited Drug Testing ensures organizations achieve reliable testing outcomes without financial strain. Fast turnaround times enhance decision-making processes and optimize resource use.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bareville, PA
Hair follicle tests offer unmatched speed and accuracy for detecting substance use. With precision unmatched by urine tests, they swiftly identify usage, offering rapid and reliable data essential for making informed decisions. This competence ensures timely and effective assessments, crucial for maintaining safety and compliance standards.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bareville, PA
Hair follicle testing supports employers in adhering to strict drug-free policies. This method reduces legal liabilities, bolsters workplace safety, and enhances peace of mind. By employing thorough testing practices, businesses can ensure a compliant, secure, and effective work environment, fostering a culture of responsibility and trust.
