Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Centerville, PA

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains evidence of alcohol and drug use within the fibers of the hair shaft, providing a lengthy history of substance intake. When collected near the scalp, hair offers approximately a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Collection is straightforward, manipulation is challenging, and transport is uncomplicated.

A 1.5-inch hair sample comprising approximately 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) positioned nearest the scalp yields 100mg, which is an optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair is suitable. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The core steps in lab drug test processing include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the sample's initial processing within a lab’s setup, ensuring proper sealing and shipment, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening performs a preliminary check for abuse substances. While cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be legally valid. Presumptively positive samples in Screening necessitate further confirmation.

For samples with presumptive positives in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening the most intricate method to execute.

Confirmation of any positive screen result employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are washed pre-confirmation as necessary. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests track drug use for up to 90 days, as opposed to urine tests with a shorter detection frame.
• Resistance to tampering: Hair drug tests are notably hard to manipulate, increasing result accuracy.
• Reveals usage history: It can illustrate a pattern over time, rather than just recent use.

Limitations:

• Limited detection of recent use: Drugs become detectable in hair in approximately 5-7 days.
• Expense: Generally higher costs compared to other drug testing techniques.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and individual growth characteristics can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Despite being termed "hair follicle tests", the focus is on analyzing the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Centerville, PA

• Hair tests offer superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine testing.
• Longer detection periods provide comprehensive assessments of substance use.
• Sample integrity is maintained, reducing possibilities of tampering.
• For those seeking highly reliable outcomes, hair testing is an unmatched choice.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Centerville, PA

• Hair follicle tests detect drug use over a significant duration, up to 90 days.
• This extended window offers a more complete overview of a person's drug history.
• Employers benefit from knowing candidates' long-term substance patterns.
• Reliable historical data helps in making informed employment decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Centerville, PA

• Hair follicle tests are highly resistant to sample adulteration.
• The method ensures sample security, providing unquestionable results.
• Integrity of testing is paramount, offering peace of mind to all parties involved.
• Sophisticated testing methods make it nearly impossible to cheat.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Centerville, PA

• Widespread testing centers ensure accessibility for every individual.
• Local options in Centerville simplify process for residents.
• Quick and hassle-free testing experiences are guaranteed.
• Nationwide presence assures prompt service wherever you are.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Centerville, PA

• The testing process is straightforward, ensuring every step is easy to follow.
• Confidentiality is prioritized, safeguarding personal data and privacy.
• Ordering, conducting, and receiving results are handled with utmost care.
• Privacy concerns are fully addressed, ensuring trust and reliability.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Centerville, PA

• Competitive pricing makes hair testing accessible for businesses of all sizes.
• Quick turnaround times are beneficial, ensuring results are delivered promptly.
• Excellent value provided eases financial planning for companies.
• Faster results promote informed, timely decision-making processes.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Centerville, PA

• The precision of hair follicle drug tests ensures high accuracy in identifying substance use.
• Speed and reliability are paramount, offering a dependable testing method.
• Hair tests ensure quick detection of illicit substances, providing trustworthy results for all stakeholders.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Centerville, PA

• Using hair testing aids in adhering to drug-free workplace regulations.
• It minimizes legal risks associated with workplace substance abuse.
• Enhancing safety and trust among employees.
• Employers enjoy a stress-free approach towards drug policy enforcement.

Drug Testing Near Centerville, PA

Corry, PA

Pleasantville, PA

Guys Mills, PA

Union City, PA

Elgin, PA

Titusville, PA

Spartansburg, PA

Townville, PA

Canadohta Lake, PA

Hydetown, PA

Lincolnville, PA

Riceville, PA