Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Horsham, PA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is widely recognized as an effective method for detecting the usage of alcohol and drugs. It provides a prolonged record of drug and alcohol consumption by capturing biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. Collecting hair near the scalp can offer a 3-month span of detection for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A sample from the scalp measuring 1.5 inches long with roughly 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for screening and confirming. For EtG tests, add-ons, and/or testing over 10 panels, 150mg of the hair specimen is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. When referring to head hair, we refer to scalp hair specifically. Body hair includes other types of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result generally comprises four core steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the preliminary stage where a sample is integrated into the laboratory’s system. This step entails ensuring that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any auxiliary data entry not already provided by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is an initial, rapid test to check for drug abuse. Though an economical approach to eliminate drug use across most samples, any positive result in Screening must be verified for courtroom acceptance. Samples showing presumptive positives in Screening require further confirmation.

For a sample testing positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the primary sample and prepared for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are rooted out from hair at low concentrations, distinguishing it from other methods like urine or oral fluid testing, making hair drug screening particularly challenging.

GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are employed to confirm any positive screen results. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation based on necessity. The entire procedure from Accessioning through Confirmation is examined following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO/IEC 17025 standards of accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can reveal drug use up to 90 days, while urine tests have a shorter detection timeframe.
• Difficult to compromise: Cheating a hair drug test is notably challenging, thus the results tend to be more reliable.
• Shows usage patterns: Hair drug testing can illustrate long-term drug use patterns, not just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to identify recent use: Drugs typically become detectable in hair approximately 5-7 days following usage.
• Expense: Hair drug tests usually cost more than other drug testing techniques.
• Variability in results: The concentration of drug metabolites in hair can be influenced by factors such as hair color and individual differences in hair growth rates.

Note: Despite commonly being called "hair follicle tests," the test analyzes the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine methods in multiplex facets. Its ability to accurately identify prolonged drug usage offers a definitive advantage. Horsham, PA, benefits from enhanced detection capabilities, as hair testing delivers results less susceptible to alteration. This precise evaluation aids employers in acquiring genuine understanding of applicants' histories, ensuring more reliable hiring decisions.

Superior Coverage: Unlike urine tests which are limited to recent use, hair follicle tests provide comprehensive detection spanning back several months.

Extended Detection Window

With a notable detection duration, hair follicle testing in Horsham, PA, captures substance use over an extended timeline of up to 90 days. Employers gain a clearer portrait of an individual’s substance history, allowing for more informed decisions regarding hiring or retention. This extensive window surpasses standard testing intervals, proving invaluable for organizations with stringent policies.

Detailed Insights: This longer detection phase offers companies a comprehensive overview of substance use, reflecting on the applicant's lifestyle choices.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests are less prone to tampering, providing reliable results in Horsham, PA. This minimizes risks of sample adulteration, a common issue with other testing methods. Employers can trust the integrity and accuracy of outcomes, ensuring that their drug-free policies are upheld without question. Such robustness in testing guarantees fairness and stability in workplace evaluations.

Unmatched Security: The inherent nature of hair testing means it's shielded from most common adulteration tactics, making it a preferred choice.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Benefit from easy access to numerous testing facilities both nationwide and locally in Horsham, PA. Accredited Drug Testing ensures that companies and individuals receive efficient testing without unnecessary delays, with centers widely distributed across various locales. The convenience of multiple sites means a faster, more streamlined procedure, accommodating those with busy schedules.

Comprehensive Reach: With strategic locations everywhere, testing is straightforward and hassle-free.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process of hair follicle testing in Horsham, PA, is designed to be straightforward and secure. From ordering tests to obtaining results, clients are ensured a confidential and discreet experience. Protecting individual privacy is paramount, guaranteeing no stress or anxiety during the testing process. This simplicity fosters trust and encourages wider acceptance.

Streamlined Approach: Efficiency and privacy go hand in hand, ensuring client comfort throughout the procedure.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Accessible pricing and fast results characterize hair follicle testing in Horsham, PA. Given the rapid turnaround, companies of varying sizes can benefit from reliable services without breaking the bank. This budget-friendly yet effective approach provides peace of mind, and the cost-saving aspect makes it an appealing choice for businesses advocating comprehensive drug screening policies.

Cost-Effective Solutions: Balancing affordability with precision, these tests affirm value while maintaining quality.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The precision and reliability of hair follicle drug tests in Horsham, PA, are unmatched. Hair tests excel in offering high accuracy when identifying substance use, setting them apart from alternatives. The swift completion of these tests ensures timely results. This efficiency grants individuals and employers in Horsham confidence in their testing methods, knowing that detection is both robust and precise.

High Accuracy: Hair follicle testing stands out for its ability to detect even trace amounts of substances with precision. This ensures a lower rate of false negatives and gives accurate insight into an individual’s substance use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

By opting for hair follicle testing, employers in Horsham, PA, can seamlessly ensure compliance with mandated drug-free standards. The process mitigates legal challenges and fosters a safe work environment. As more companies prioritize these policies, hair testing serves as a backbone, confirming adherence and safeguarding employee wellbeing.

Employer Assurance: Deploying such tests aligns with best practices, providing peace of mind and lowering potential liability risks.

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