Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. This method offers an extended record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair shaft as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer a detection range extending up to roughly three months for both alcohol and other substances. Hair sampling is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and convenient for transportation.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 strands (akin to the diameter of a #2 pencil), yields 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary analyses, and/or assays surpassing 10 panels, 150mg is the advised specimen mass. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for measuring the specimen is suggested. In cases where scalp hair is inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. The term "head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses other types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory examination of a drug test incorporates four principal stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the preliminary intake of a sample into the laboratory's system. This process ensures proper sealing and shipping of the sample, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any supplementary data input absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a rapid preliminary drug check. Although screening efficiently excludes drug use in the majority of samples, any positive indications will necessitate confirmation to stand as valid in legal proceedings. Samples suggesting drug presence in Screening require additional confirmation.
Should the Screening indicate a presumptive positive, an additional portion of the specimen is prepared for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drug compounds from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Any positive results from screening undergo Confirmation using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Prior to confirmation, presumptive positive samples undergo washing when required. The comprehensive lab procedure, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is verified under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and aligns with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually examines the hair shaft rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Maytown, PA
When comparing hair follicle tests with traditional urine tests, the former showcases enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing sets itself apart with its ability to identify substance use over an extended period, thus proving more effective for those aiming to uphold stringent drug use policies.
Extended Detection Window in Maytown, PA
Offering up to 90 days of historical data, hair follicle testing grants employers valuable insights into a candidate's or employee's drug use habits. This extended detection window surpasses traditional methods, providing a thorough overview of an individual's substance history during their employment assessment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Maytown, PA
The robustness of hair follicle tests lies in their resistance to tampering. This testing method greatly minimizes manipulation attempts, yielding reliable and unquestionable results. Its design ensures that samples remain unaltered, bolstering the integrity of test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Maytown, PA
Access to fast and hassle-free testing is pivotal, and our nationwide center network covers this need comprehensively. With local testing centers, we ensure that your drug testing requirements are met in a timely and convenient manner, saving you both time and effort.
Simple, Confidential Process in Maytown, PA
Our hair follicle drug test process is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, every step prioritizes user privacy. Our simplified approach eliminates complexity, ensuring ease and peace of mind for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Maytown, PA
The affordability and swift processing times of our hair follicle tests offer businesses excellent value. Our competitive pricing structures allow companies, big or small, to integrate reliable testing methods without stretching their budgets.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Maytown, PA
If you're seeking a testing method that offers speed without compromising accuracy, hair follicle drug tests are ideal. These tests deliver reliable results with precision, ensuring substance use is detected accurately. They provide a trustworthy means of evaluating substance presence, meeting rigorous standards for dependability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Maytown, PA
Utilizing hair follicle testing can significantly enhance workplace safety by ensuring compliance with strict drug-free policies. It mitigates potential legal risks, offering employers peace of mind while fostering a safer environment for all staff members.
