Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now viewed as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a long-term overview of substance use by encapsulating biomarkers within the fibers of growing hair strands. When taken from near the scalp, hair can offer up to around a 3-month detection period for substances. The sample collection is straightforward, it's relatively resistant to tampering, and it's convenient to send.
A 1.5-inch section of approximately 200 strands of hair (around the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp delivers 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for testing and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is suggested. We advise utilizing a jeweler's scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair can't be obtained, an equivalent amount of body hair is acceptable. When discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair covers all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result primarily comprises four steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial processing entry of a sample into a lab's system, verifying proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplemental data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a primary swift evaluation for substance abuse. Although Screening is an economical means to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive outcome must confirm to be legally acceptable. Any samples with a preliminary positive result in Screening require secondary verification.
In cases where a sample shows a presumptive positive result in Screening, extra hair is drawn from the original sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening a challenging methodology.
Confirmation of positive Screening outcomes occurs through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation when necessary. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO/IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the procedure analyzes the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Laurel Run, PA
Comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests reveals its superior advantages. Hair tests offer an extended detection window and are much harder to tamper with, providing a more accurate and reliable assessment.
The lengthy detection period of hair follicle testing ensures that past substance use can be evaluated, unlike urine tests which offer a shorter detection span.
Extended Detection Window in Laurel Run, PA
One of the standout benefits of hair follicle testing is its ability to identify drug use over a significant duration - up to 90 days. This capability offers employers in Laurel Run a detailed insight into an individual's substance use history.
This extended detection window is invaluable for employers who seek a comprehensive view of an employee or potential hire's past behavior concerning substance use.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Laurel Run, PA
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their tamper-resistant nature, making sample adulteration highly improbable. This ensures the testing results in Laurel Run remain credible and beyond question.
With minimal chance for individuals to alter or manipulate the test sample, employers can trust the outcomes, ensuring authentic assessments of substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Laurel Run, PA
Our extensive network of testing centers across the country ensures that individuals in Laurel Run can easily access testing services. This convenience facilitates quick and hassle-free drug testing for everyone.
Whether you're in a big city or a smaller community like Laurel Run, the availability of numerous testing sites makes the process as effortless and efficient as possible.
Simple, Confidential Process in Laurel Run, PA
Ordering, undertaking, and receiving results from a hair follicle test is both simple and confidential in Laurel Run. The process respects privacy needs while ensuring ease of use for all involved.
Individuals can count on a streamlined experience, knowing that their personal information is safeguarded throughout the testing phases, from beginning to end.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Laurel Run, PA
Our competitive pricing structures coupled with rapid turnaround times highlight the value we provide. Businesses of all sizes in Laurel Run benefit from cost-effective testing without compromising quality.
The efficiency of our processes guarantees not only affordability but also prompt results, allowing employers to make informed decisions swiftly and confidently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Laurel Run, PA
Hair follicle drug testing is a swift, precise method of evaluating substance use in Laurel Run. These tests offer tremendous accuracy, quick results, and unparalleled reliability in identifying drug use over several weeks.
Thanks to its meticulous process, hair follicle testing ensures that results are both timely and trustworthy, providing peace of mind to those relying on these tests for critical decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Laurel Run, PA
Employers in Laurel Run can achieve compliance with drug-free workplace policies through hair follicle testing, minimizing legal liabilities. This method enhances employee safety and ensures a secure working environment.
The accuracy and reliability of these tests provide employers the confidence they need to maintain a safe and compliant workplace, reducing risks associated with employee drug use.
