Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a long-term record of alcohol and drug use, capturing biomarkers within the strands of the hair as it grows. When taken close to the scalp, a hair sample can offer up to a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 hair strands (akin to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, will yield 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for screening and verification. For tests like EtG, extended panels, and those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen size of 150mg is advisable. It is recommended to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a similar quantity of body hair might be used. When referencing head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. Body hair includes all other kinds of hair (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary stages in processing a drug test result in a laboratory include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial intake of a sample into a laboratory's system. This process ensures that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performs any further data entry not captured through an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for signs of drug abuse. While it is an economical approach to identify drug usage for most samples, a positive result needs confirmation to be validated in court. Any samples that test positive during Screening must undergo a secondary confirmation.
Should a sample test positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen and readied for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug testing one of the most challenging methodologies to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are washed prior to confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being frequently called "hair follicle tests", the test is conducted on the hair strand and not on the follicle under the scalp.
In comparing hair follicle tests to urine tests in Chadds Ford, PA, the benefits of hair testing stand out. It offers superior accuracy and reliability, detecting substances over a longer period. This makes hair testing an excellent choice for comprehensive evaluations.
Unlike traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing in Chadds Ford, PA provides in-depth insights into substance use history. Its extensive detection window captures a broader range of usage, offering a more complete picture.
Hair follicle testing in Chadds Ford, PA has an extended detection window of up to 90 days. This gives employers a far-reaching understanding of a candidate's or employee's substance use history.
Employers gain significant insights into drug use history through hair testing in Chadds Ford, PA. This long detection period is critical for better-informed hiring and retention decisions.
Hair follicle tests in Chadds Ford, PA significantly minimize the risk of tampering. This reliability ensures results that businesses and individuals can trust.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing in Chadds Ford, PA sets a standard for reliability. It offers peace of mind that results are precise and uncontaminated.
With numerous nationwide testing centers, accessing hair follicle testing in Chadds Ford, PA is quick and convenient. Our facilities ensure a smooth experience for all clients.
The vast network of testing centers in Chadds Ford, PA guarantees ease of access. Clients benefit from hassle-free services and efficient testing processes.
Our hair follicle testing process in Chadds Ford, PA is simple and confidential. Clients can expect privacy every step of the way, from ordering to receiving results.
Simplicity and confidentiality define our drug testing services in Chadds Ford, PA. We prioritize user privacy, ensuring a discreet experience throughout the process.
Our hair follicle testing services in Chadds Ford, PA offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. Companies of all sizes find great value in our efficient and affordable solutions.
Affordability and quick results are hallmarks of our drug testing in Chadds Ford, PA. Competitive rates combined with speed deliver exceptional value to our clients.
The speed and precision of hair follicle drug testing in Chadds Ford, PA are unmatched. By detecting substance use quickly, these tests provide highly accurate results. This reliability is essential for individuals and organizations seeking effective drug testing solutions.
In today’s fast-paced world, the rapid turnaround of hair testing results is a significant advantage. Efficiency in detecting drugs ensures timely decision-making, reinforcing its position as a leading choice.
In Chadds Ford, PA, hair follicle testing ensures compliance with workplace drug-free policies. This reduces legal risks for employers and bolsters a safer work environment.
By using hair follicle testing in Chadds Ford, PA, businesses can maintain compliance and safety. This method supports a drug-free policy, enhancing overall workplace harmony.
