Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. These substances leave a long-lasting trace in hair strands as they develop, capturing biomarkers within the growing fibers. With sampling near the scalp, hair can offer a detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs of up to roughly 90 days. The collection process is straightforward, tampering is relatively challenging, and the samples are easy to transport.
A sample comprising 1.5 inches of about 200 hair strands (similar to the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp delivers 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for initial screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is suggested to use a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen's weight. Should scalp hair be absent, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. The term head hair refers to scalp hair exclusively, whereas body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four main phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the introductory integration of a sample into a lab's infrastructure. Tasks in this phase comprise confirming proper sealing and shipping of the sample, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplementary data entry not managed by a digital chain of custody system.
Screening acts as an initial rapid assessment for drugs of concern. Although Screening is a budget-friendly method to exclude drug use in the majority of cases, a positive result from a screen must be verified to be legally valid. Samples that yield presumptively positive results during Screening demand further confirmation.
Should a sample test positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this step, substances are isolated from hair at a notably lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), highlighting the complexities of hair drug screening.
Positive screening outcomes undergo Confirmation through techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples that test presumptively positive are cleaned before confirmation as required. The entire procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the certification to ISO / IEC 17025 benchmarks.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lawson Heights, PA
The advantages of hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests are numerous. Hair tests offer a longer detection window, capturing drug use up to 90 days prior. This extensive range provides a comprehensive overview, as urine tests typically detect only recent usage. Law enforcement, businesses, and rehab facilities in Lawson Heights frequently opt for hair testing due to its superior reliability.
Unlike urine tests, hair tests are less susceptible to tampering. The collection process ensures that results are genuine and dependable. Furthermore, the longer detection period helps maintain a drug-free work environment, supporting zero-tolerance policies. Hair follicle testing is also beneficial for assessing long-term substance habits, aiding employers in making thoughtful and responsible decisions.
Extended Detection Window in Lawson Heights, PA
Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection period of up to 90 days, far surpassing the brief window of urine tests. This capability provides employers with a detailed overview of a candidate or employee's substance use history, crucial for maintaining a safe and productive workplace.
The ability to retrospectively analyze substance use over several months allows for identifying habitual drug users, enhancing workplace screening processes in Lawson Heights. Such comprehensive detection aids in implementing preventative measures, promoting a healthy, drug-free work environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lawson Heights, PA
One of the most valued traits of hair follicle testing is its resistance to tampering. The process of collection ensures the integrity of the sample, making it nearly impossible to alter or adulterate, unlike other drug testing methods.
In Lawson Heights, the reliability offered by hair tests provides peace of mind to employers and legal entities, ensuring accurate and defensible results. This tamper-proof nature strengthens the credibility of the testing process, setting a high bar for drug testing standards locally and nationally.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lawson Heights, PA
With easy access to hair follicle drug testing across the nation, including local facilities in Lawson Heights, clients enjoy a seamless and convenient testing experience. Our extensive network ensures dependable service in all regions.
These numerous testing centers foster hassle-free and efficient processes, allowing for swift and timely testing. The strategic placement of centers ensures no client is left without access, promising fast and uncomplicated service delivery.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lawson Heights, PA
Our testing procedure is designed for ease and confidentiality, guaranteeing privacy from ordering to result delivery. Streamlined steps ensure all clients experience a straightforward process in a confidential manner.
In Lawson Heights, clients can confidently undergo testing with the assurance of discretion, allowing for stress-free participation in drug screening. The clarity of our process addresses privacy concerns effectively, adding value through user-friendly operations.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lawson Heights, PA
We offer competitive pricing structures that ensure excellent value for clients of varying sizes. Our commitment to affordability does not sacrifice the quality of our efficient services, providing reliable drug testing at cost-effective rates.
The quick turnaround times mean clients receive results promptly without straining their budgets. In Lawson Heights, our pricing and efficiency provide a satisfying experience that meets diverse financial and operational needs, reinforcing peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lawson Heights, PA
When accuracy and speed are critical, hair follicle tests stand out. They offer high precision in detecting illegal substances, giving results quickly and efficiently. This method is praised for its ability to identify substance use accurately, ensuring trustworthy outcomes that stakeholders depend on for making informed decisions.
The rapid turnaround of hair follicle tests allows stakeholders to address concerns without delay, ensuring prompt decision-making. This efficient testing mechanism upholds the integrity of drug screening processes, reinforcing its place as a preferred choice in Lawson Heights.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lawson Heights, PA
Implementing hair follicle drug testing allows employers to align with workplace drug-free policies, reducing potential legal and safety risks. This method not only supports maintaining a safe working environment but also ensures compliance with stringent regulatory standards.
Employers in Lawson Heights gain peace of mind knowing they are acting responsibly and minimizing risks. By choosing hair follicle testing, they reinforce trust within their workforce, protecting both their employees and organizational reputation.
