Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is widely recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands store a historical record of substance use, with biomarkers encapsulated within the structure of the hair as it grows. A sample taken near the scalp can reveal a drug or alcohol detection span of about three months. Hair sample collection is straightforward, tamper-resistant, and convenient for shipping.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 strands (equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is preferable. It is advisable to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not accessible, body hair in a comparable quantity can be gathered. By head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for drug test results includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is first integrated into the laboratory's system. This step involves confirming the integrity of the sample's seal and shipment, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and ensuring any extra data inputs missed by the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial assessment for drugs of abuse. Although it is an economical approach for most samples, a positive result must be validated for legal proceedings. All samples that preliminarily test positive in Screening necessitate further verification.
In cases where the Screening test is presumptively positive, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from the hair in much lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid, rendering hair drug analysis one of the most challenging methodologies.
Positive Screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo a cleansing process as required. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although sometimes called "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hawley, PA
Hair testing surpasses traditional urine tests by providing a longer detection window and higher accuracy, reducing the chances of false negatives. While urine tests are limited to recent use, hair tests can unveil patterns of substance use over extended periods, offering a more reliable option for those with stringent drug-use policies.
Extended Detection Window in Hawley, PA
Hair follicle testing stands out with its ability to detect drug use over a longer period, up to 90 days. This capacity allows employers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use history, aiding in informed decision-making and contributing to a safer and more secure workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hawley, PA
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their resistance to tampering, significantly reducing the risk of sample adulteration. This ensures the integrity and reliability of test results, providing conclusive evidence that stands up to scrutiny, thus reinforcing the credibility of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Hawley, PA
Our testing centers are conveniently located nationwide, including in Hawley, PA, offering easy access to drug testing services. The accessibility to testing facilities ensures minimal disruption, allowing quick and hassle-free service, crucial for both individuals and businesses requiring efficient testing solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hawley, PA
The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle testing is straightforward and private. Ensuring confidentiality, the process addresses privacy concerns while providing simple and user-friendly testing experiences, essential for maintaining client trust and satisfaction.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hawley, PA
Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times offer excellent value, particularly for companies of all sizes. With cost-effective solutions and swift results, businesses can trust in gaining accurate insights into substance use, expediting decision-making processes while maintaining budgetary considerations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hawley, PA
Hair follicle drug tests excel in precision and speed, offering prompt, reliable results. Their superior accuracy in capturing substance use patterns makes them an essential tool for employers keen on maintaining a drug-free environment. The efficiency of hair testing lies in its ability to swiftly identify illicit substances, ensuring decisions are based on conclusive evidence.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hawley, PA
Utilizing hair follicle testing aids employers in meeting compliance requirements for drug-free policies, reducing legal risks. The assurance of accurate, dependable results enhances a drug-free workplace environment, fostering peace of mind and ensuring safety across the board.
