Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is widely regarded as an effective method for identifying consumption of drugs and alcohol. It offers insight into long-term substance use by capturing biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When hair is sourced close to the scalp, it can reveal a timeline of up to three months for both alcohol and drugs. Its collection is straightforward, less prone to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
By obtaining a 1.5-inch length of approximately 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp, about 100mg of hair is acquired, which is optimal for initial testing and validation. For EtG testing, additional analyses, or screens exceeding 10 panels, it’s advisable to gather 150mg of the sample. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is suggested. If head hair is not accessible, equivalent amounts of body hair may be used. The term head hair specifically means scalp hair. Body hair encompasses other types (like facial or armpit hair).
Process Overview
The key stages in processing a drug test in the lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the sample’s initial integration into the lab’s system. This phase includes confirming the sample's seal and shipment integrity, issuing a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data input not handled by an electronic custody documentation system.
Screening offers an expeditious assessment for drug usage. Though cost-efficient in ruling out drug use in most cases, any positive screening requires validation to be verified in legal settings. Presumptively positive results during Screening necessitate further validation.
When a sample shows a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is drawn from the original sample for the Extraction process. At this point, drugs are isolated from the hair at reduced concentrations versus other methods (such as urine or saliva), which makes hair drug analysis notably challenging to execute.
Positive screening findings are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Before confirmation, presumptive samples are cleaned as necessary. The complete lab sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being described as "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Folcroft, PA, hair follicle testing stands superior to traditional urine tests. The primary advantage lies in its longer detection window, capturing drug use up to 90 days.
Hair tests are harder to tamper with, increasing their reliability over urine tests. The method also ensures observation, preventing manipulation.
Employers benefit from its accuracy, reducing the risk of incorrect results and ensuring comprehensive drug policies are upheld.
Hair follicle testing in Folcroft, PA offers an extensive detection window, providing insight into drug use history for up to 90 days.
This lengthy detection period is especially beneficial for employers needing a comprehensive view of an individual's substance use habits.
The 90-day window ensures employers enforce reliable substance use policies, safeguarding workplace safety and compliance.
Folcroft, PA's hair follicle tests are highly tamper-resistant due to their design. This ensures the integrity and reliability of every test conducted.
The collection process is strictly observed, significantly reducing the chance of sample adulteration compared to urine tests.
Employers can trust the results, as the method delivers dependable, alter-proof findings, crucial for maintaining drug-free workplaces.
With comprehensive testing centers across the nation, including Folcroft, PA, hair follicle testing is easily accessible.
Our nationwide presence allows for quick and convenient testing sessions, minimizing disruption to busy schedules.
The broad accessibility ensures that individuals and businesses can promptly address their testing needs with minimal hassle.
In Folcroft, PA, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential. The steps for ordering, taking, and receiving results are clear and discreet.
Attention to privacy and simplicity is maintained throughout the process, alleviating concerns around confidentiality.
Our streamlined procedure ensures ease of use, making drug testing a seamless experience for all involved.
Businesses in Folcroft, PA benefit from competitive pricing and swift turnaround times with our hair follicle testing services.
We offer cost-effective options without compromising on quality, ensuring great value for organizations of all sizes.
Fast processing times provide peace of mind and enable companies to maintain their schedules while adhering to necessary drug screening regulations.
Hair follicle drug testing in Folcroft, PA offers rapid and accurate results. The meticulous process ensures high precision in detecting substance use, leaving little room for error.
Our advanced testing methods guarantee dependable outcomes. This accuracy supports informed decision-making for employers requiring drug screening.
Efficient turn-around times make this testing method convenient for businesses seeking prompt answers.
Employers in Folcroft, PA enjoy peace of mind with hair follicle testing, as it aligns with workplace drug-free mandates.
Compliance with stringent policies reduces organizational risk and enhances overall safety, fostering a more secure environment.
The thoroughness of these tests reassures employers, limiting liability issues while promoting a drug-free, compliant workspace.
