Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained traction as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of growing hair, it offers an extended history of alcohol and drug use. When hair is taken from near the scalp, it can offer approximately a 90-day detection span for substances. The collection process for hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 hair strands (about the size of a #2 pencil) from the scalp will equate to 100mg, which is the prime amount for analysis. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or assessments beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. Measuring the sample with a precision scale is advised. If scalp hair is scarce, a comparable quantity of body hair can be taken. By head hair, we mean only scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages during the lab handling of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the preliminary processing of a sample into a lab's system. This step involves confirming the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data input not supplied through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening denotes an initial, economical drug abuse check. While this process efficiently rules out drug usage in most samples, any positive result during Screening must be fortified to be valid in legal contexts. Samples that test potentially positive in Screening need a further confirmation.
If a sample tests potentially positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and processed for Extraction. Within this step, drugs are isolated from hair at a reduced concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), leading hair drug screening to be among the most challenging techniques to execute.
Confirming a positive screening result occurs through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methodologies. Any samples with potential positive results undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The comprehensive lab procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Although commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Murrysville, PA
Employers in Murrysville, PA, are turning to hair follicle drug testing for superior accuracy. Unlike urine tests, hair tests provide a broader detection window and are less susceptible to tampering. This method reveals a more comprehensive drug use history, illuminating patterns that urine tests can miss.
Extended Detection Window in Murrysville, PA
The hair follicle test stands out for its extended detection period, capturing drug use over 90 days. This extensive timeframe in Murrysville, PA, permits employers to view a comprehensive history of substance use, surpassing the limitations of shorter-term tests like urine screenings.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Murrysville, PA
In Murrysville, PA, the hair follicle drug test drastically reduces the potential for sample tampering. Its meticulous collection and analysis process ensures that results are reliable and trustworthy, providing clear insight into an individual's substance use without fear of adulteration.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Murrysville, PA
With testing locations aplenty, including Murrysville, PA, and nationwide, Accredited Drug Testing offers accessible services. Employers and individuals can easily access testing facilities, ensuring a hassle-free experience across the board.
Simple, Confidential Process in Murrysville, PA
The hair follicle drug testing process is simple and confidential. In Murrysville, PA, individuals enjoy a streamlined experience from ordering to receiving results, ensuring privacy and ease with every step.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Murrysville, PA
Offering competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, hair follicle drug testing in Murrysville, PA, provides excellent value for businesses. Rapid results at affordable rates enhance confidence in workplace safety measures and compliance.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Murrysville, PA
In Murrysville, PA, hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and speed. Designed to detect various substances accurately, these tests provide rapid and dependable results, ensuring employers have a clear understanding of an individual's drug use history.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Murrysville, PA
Employers in Murrysville, PA, gain assurance through hair follicle drug testing, which aligns with drug-free workplace initiatives. It minimizes legal risks and enhances safety, ensuring compliance and fostering a secure working environment.