Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a long-term record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strands. When sampled near the scalp, hair offers approximately a 3-month detection period for drugs and alcohol. The collection process for hair is straightforward, it is relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.
Obtaining a 1.5-inch section composed of around 200 hair strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional substances, and tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is recommended to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be taken. When referencing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively, while body hair encompasses all other varieties (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The key phases in the lab execution of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning constitutes the preliminary handling of a sample into a lab's system. This task includes ensuring that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplementary data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody mechanism.
Screening entails a preliminary quick examination for substances of abuse. Although Screening efficiently rules out drug usage in most samples, a positive indication needs confirmation to be legally acceptable. Any samples indicating potential positivity in Screening necessitate further verification.
Should a sample suggest a positive result in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. In this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at a concentration much lower than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of performing hair drug examinations.
The confirmation of any positive Screening is carried out via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating presumptive positivity are cleansed before confirmation if needed. The lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Longwood, PA.
Hair follicle testing outperforms traditional urine tests by delivering superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair testing can uncover long-term drug use, offering a broader perspective on an individual's substance habits.
Extended Detection Window in Longwood, PA.
Hair follicle tests are capable of identifying drug usage within a window extending up to 90 days. Employers gain a detailed understanding of an applicant or employee's substance history, offering a comprehensive view that informs hiring and retention strategies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Longwood, PA.
Hair follicle testing reduces the risk of sample tampering, ensuring test results are both reliable and unquestionable. This robustness is critical for maintaining the integrity of drug testing procedures, guaranteeing trust and confidence in the process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Longwood, PA.
Our expansive network of testing centers offers convenience across the nation, including local sites in Longwood. This ensures easy access and a straightforward testing experience for businesses and individuals alike, reducing logistical challenges.
Simple, Confidential Process in Longwood, PA.
Our hair follicle testing process is designed to be simple and private. From ordering to taking the test and receiving results, every step prioritizes confidentiality, addressing any privacy concerns and offering ease of use for all clients.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Longwood, PA.
We provide competitive pricing structures and rapid turnaround times. Our service offers excellent value, delivering peace of mind for companies of any size without compromising on quality or timeliness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Longwood, PA.
Experience the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests. These tests are renowned for their high accuracy in identifying substance use, providing businesses with dependable results that inform critical employment and workplace safety decisions. Hair testing enhances transparency and supports informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Longwood, PA.
Implementing hair follicle testing supports adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This approach mitigates legal risks and enhances workplace safety, providing managers and employers with peace of mind and a safer working environment.
