Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. It offers an extended tracking history of substances by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of expanding hair strands. Collected near the scalp, hair covers a detection timeframe of around three months for substances. Collection is straightforward, opening up possibilities for tampering is challenging, and it is conveniently shippable.
A 1.5-inch hair sample consisting of approximately 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil’s diameter) near the scalp delivers 100mg, which is ideal for initial and confirmatory screening. For EtG, additional assessments, or checks beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We suggest utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. Alternately, if scalp hair is missing, an equivalent amount of body hair may be acquired. Notably, head hair implies only scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other variations (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The crucial laboratory phases in drug test processing include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample within a lab's system. This step involves confirming the sample’s proper sealing and transport, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing information not supplied by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening constitutes an initial brief examination for controlled substances. While Screening is economically viable for excluding drug usage in most samples, additional confirmation is needed for legal relevancy regarding positive results. Presumptively positive samples during Screening thus require secondary verification.
For samples that test presumptively positive during Screening, extra hair is retrieved from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. Here, bile drugs are extracted from hair at far lower levels than those found in alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are employed to validate any positive screening findings. Positively presumptive samples undergo washing pre-confirmation if necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle test" often used is misleading, as the test examines the hair strand, excluding the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Outshines Urine Testing in Fountain Springs, PA
Hair follicle testing provides a clearer picture of an individual's substance use history. Unlike urine tests, which detect recent drug use, hair tests provide data spanning up to 90 days. This extended window is vital for employers who need a thorough understanding of an individual’s drug habits, ensuring a more reliable assessment.
Employers benefit from its unmatched accuracy and difficult-to-manipulate process.
Extended Detection Window in Fountain Springs, PA
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This duration far exceeds that of traditional testing methods, providing employers an expansive view of a candidate or current employee's lifestyle. For those enforcing drug-free policies, having a comprehensive outlook on substance history is invaluable, allowing for better decision-making where drug use is a concern.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Fountain Springs, PA
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring results are both reliable and unquestionable. This testing method provides assurance to employers that the results are not only accurate but free from any manipulation attempts. Its stringent collection process is designed to resist tampering, making it a robust choice for those requiring dependable drug screening methods.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Reach in Fountain Springs, PA
The accessibility of our testing services, thanks to extensive nationwide centers, ensures a smooth and stress-free experience for individuals requiring testing. Whether local to Fountain Springs or elsewhere, each center offers quick access to services, allowing clients to reap the benefits of professional testing without hassle. The convenience and reach mean there's always a nearby facility ready to assist promptly.
Simple, Confidential Process for Hair Follicle Testing in Fountain Springs, PA
Our testing process is designed to be straightforward and private, catering to those concerned about confidentiality and ease of use. From ordering to obtaining results, every step maintains privacy and simplicity, ensuring those tested feel secure about their information. By prioritizing discretion and user-friendliness, we guarantee a positive experience with no risk of sensitive data breaches.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Fountain Springs, PA
Our competitive pricing strategies paired with quick result times provide outstanding value across company sizes. Being economically viable, while ensuring rapid result delivery, makes our services a wise choice for organizations seeking affordable options that don't sacrifice quality or efficiency. In Fountain Springs, PA, we offer budget-friendly solutions with assurance of fast and reliable outcomes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Fountain Springs, PA
Hair follicle drug tests offer impressive precision and speed. These tests have a notable ability to detect substance use accurately, making them a preferred choice for reliable results. Their precision ensures that any drug use is swiftly identified, and their non-intrusive nature means individuals get faster results without compromising on accuracy. It's an ideal option for securing dependable outcomes in a timely manner.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Fountain Springs, PA
Employing hair follicle testing techniques secures compliance with workplace policies on drugs, minimizing legal liabilities. This approach strengthens a safe working environment by ensuring employees adhere to drug-free conditions. With hair testing, organizations enjoy peace of mind knowing their safety protocols are backed by accurate and reliable screening methods, aligning perfectly with their regulatory needs.