Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for detecting the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair offers a long-term chronology of substance intake by capturing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When near the scalp, hair provides about a 3-month detection window for alcohol and substances. Collecting it is straightforward, altering it is relatively challenging, and it ships easily.
A 1.5-inch hair sample of approximately 200 strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, or analyses beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is suggested. We advise weighing the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent quantity of body hair might be gathered. When referencing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for generating a drug test result comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory’s system, ensuring the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers a quick preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Screening is cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, though a positive result necessitates confirmation to be court-admissible. Samples that are tentatively positive require secondary confirmation.
Should a sample be tentatively positive in Screening, more hair is extracted from the initial specimen and prepped for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at reduced concentration levels compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a complex method to execute.
Confirmation of positive screen results is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All tentatively positive samples are washed prior to confirmation as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire laboratory process is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis investigates the hair strand, not the scalp-embedded follicle
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Freeburg, PA
Choosing hair testing offers superior advantages over traditional urine tests. With a longer detection window and inherent resistance to tampering, hair tests provide greater accuracy and reliability. In Freeburg, this comprehensive method assists various sectors, from employers to legal systems, in making informed decisions about substance use.
Extended Detection Window in Freeburg, PA
One of the primary benefits of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over an extended period. Unlike urine tests, which provide a short-term view, hair testing offers insights into an individual's substance history for up to 90 days. This is particularly beneficial for employers looking to maintain a drug-free workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Freeburg, PA
Hair follicle testing is highly resistant to tampering, ensuring the integrity of results. Unlike urine tests, which can be adulterated, hair samples are stable and less susceptible to manipulation. This reliability boosts confidence in the findings, making it the preferred choice for many in Freeburg.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Freeburg, PA
Accredited Drug Testing's extensive network ensures easy access to testing facilities throughout the nation, including locations in Freeburg. Our widespread presence guarantees that you receive the testing you need promptly and efficiently, without the hassle of extensive travel or scheduling delays.
Simple, Confidential Process in Freeburg, PA
The process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and private, ensuring client comfort. From test ordering to result delivery, confidentiality is maintained. Families, employers, and individuals in Freeburg appreciate the ease and discretion of the testing experience, alleviating privacy concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Freeburg, PA
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing and quick turnarounds. Our cost-effective solutions ensure that companies of all sizes can access reliable and rapid drug testing services. In Freeburg, clients benefit from excellent value and expedited results, making hair testing both accessible and efficient.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Freeburg, PA
Hair follicle drug tests stand out due to their unmatched precision and rapid output. Unlike traditional methods, these tests swiftly and reliably identify substance presence. In Freeburg, employers and individuals trust hair testing for its proven record of swift and accurate outcomes, ensuring confidence in its results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Freeburg, PA
Employers in Freeburg can benefit greatly from utilizing hair follicle testing. This method supports compliance with strict workplace drug policies, reducing legal liabilities while enhancing safety. The accuracy and reliability of hair testing provide peace of mind, knowing that company standards are upheld effectively.
