Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now acknowledged as a potent means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer roughly a three-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. It is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a recommended 150mg of the sample is suggested. Testing the specimen's weight on a jeweler’s scale is advisable. If head hair isn't available, a similar volume of body hair may be obtained. When addressing head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s framework. This comprises ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, allotting an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any further data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for court admissibility. Samples yielding presumptive positives in Screening necessitate secondary affirmation.
If a Screening stage yields a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the principal specimen and readied for Extraction. During this phase, substances are withdrawn from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug analytics is the most intricate methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening results is accomplished via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples with presumptive positives receive a wash before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the standards accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests," the analysis examines the hair strand rather than the scalp's underlying hair follicle
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Highcliff, PA
Hair follicle testing offers significant advantages over urine testing by providing a longer detection window and reducing chances for tampering. While urine tests are common, the superior sensitivity and reliability of hair tests make them a preferred choice for employers aiming to maintain a zero-tolerance policy.
Extended Detection Window in Highcliff, PA
One of the prime benefits of hair follicle testing is its ability to uncover drug use over an extended timeframe, up to three months. This comprehensive detection window allows employers to gain an insightful understanding of an individual's drug use history from a single test.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Highcliff, PA
Hair follicle testing stands out with its tamper-proof nature. Unlike other testing methods, its sample integrity is difficult to compromise, offering peace of mind through its unassailable results. This feature ensures fairness and accuracy in testing outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Highcliff, PA
Accredited Drug Testing makes testing accessible with numerous centers nationwide, including right here in Highcliff. This widespread availability ensures that individuals and employers can access necessary testing services quickly and without hassle.
Simple, Confidential Process in Highcliff, PA
The testing process with Accredited Drug Testing is streamlined and discrete from start to finish. Starting with an easy order setup, followed by a quick collection, and culminating with rapid receipt of confidential results, our method safeguards client privacy and convenience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Highcliff, PA
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing without sacrificing speed or accuracy. Our effective cost structure and prompt delivery of results provide exceptional value for organizations aiming to maintain their budget and achieve swift testing outcomes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Highcliff, PA
Hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their precise detection capabilities and swift turnaround times. Employers and individuals alike benefit from these tests' superior ability to accurately identify substance use, ensuring a higher level of reliability in results not often met by other testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Highcliff, PA
Embracing hair follicle testing helps employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies while boosting workplace safety and reducing liability concerns. This method provides a higher assurance that company standards are met consistently.
