Hair Follicle Drug Testing - East Mckeesport, PA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a comprehensive record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands. Collected close to the scalp, it offers roughly a 3-month detection period for these substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and convenient for shipping.

A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields about 100mg of hair, the perfect amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or assessments beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is not present, an equivalent volume of body hair can be gathered. When referencing head hair, we mean scalp hair only. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processes a drug test result through four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the first step where a sample is logged into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any further data entry not available via an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides an initial rapid check for substance abuse. Screening is an affordable method to identify drug use in most samples; however, a positive screen requires confirmation for legal validity. Samples that show a presumptive positive during Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.

If a sample is presumptively positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which contributes to the complexity of hair drug screening.

Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. Every presumptive positive sample is washed prior to confirmation when necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Long detection period: Hair drug tests identify drug use up to 90 days, compared to urine tests with shorter detection spans.
• Hard to manipulate: Tampering with hair drug tests is extremely challenging, ensuring more reliable outcomes.
• Historical insight: It reveals a pattern of drug use over time, rather than only recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Incapable of detecting recent usage: Drugs become detectable in hair after approximately 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair drug tests are typically costlier than other testing techniques.
• Varied outcomes: Elements like hair color and growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: While often labeled "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually examines the hair strand, not the underlying follicle.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in East McKeesport, PA

Hair tests surpass traditional urine tests in several ways.

• They provide extensive detection windows, highlighting usage up to 90 days prior.
• Follicle tests are less prone to tampering compared to urine samples.
• Employers value the accuracy and dependability of hair-based drug screening methods.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in East McKeesport, PA

Hair follicle testing offers an unprecedented window for drug detection.

• Unlike urine tests, hair samples reveal drug use up to 90 days back.
• This gives a holistic view of an individual's long-term substance habits.
• Employers benefit from this comprehensive insight for informed decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in East McKeesport, PA

Hair follicle tests are highly resistant to adulteration.

• They provide irrefutable results due to secure sample collection.
• The integrity of hair samples reduces risks of false readings.
• This method ensures reliability, deterring any cheating attempts.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in East McKeesport, PA

Access our widespread testing centers effortlessly.

• Testing locations are available across the nation for convenience.
• Local centers in East McKeesport guarantee swift and efficient service.
• Ensuring a hassle-free experience is our commitment to you.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in East McKeesport, PA

Our process is designed to be straightforward and private.

• Ordering tests is easy, maintaining absolute confidentiality.
• Discrete sample collection respects your privacy.
• Receive results securely, ensuring peace of mind throughout the process.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in East McKeesport, PA

Competitive pricing is paired with rapid processing.

• We offer exceptional value with our cost-effective solutions.
• Quick turnaround times mean less waiting and faster outcomes.
• Benefit from quality service without compromise on cost.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in East McKeesport, PA

Experience the advantage of rapid results with hair follicle drug testing.

• Our advanced methods ensure swift and precise detection of substance abuse.
• Hair testing is lauded for its pinpoint accuracy, ensuring reliability every time.
• The technology behind follicle testing minimizes errors, giving you clear results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in East McKeesport, PA

Implement hair follicle testing for a secure workplace.

• Employers can align with drug-free policies effectively.
• Lowered legal risks and heightened safety become attainable.
• Gain peace of mind with our dependable and compliant testing solutions.

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