Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analyses have emerged as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair offers an extended historical record of alcohol and drug intake by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. If taken near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 3-month detection range for alcohol and drug consumption. Collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A sample of hair measuring 1.5 inches containing roughly 200 strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advised. It's best to measure the sample weight using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair is acceptable. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result includes four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is processed into the laboratory’s system. This process checks that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data input not available through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for substances of abuse. While Screening is an economical method to rule out drug use for the majority of samples, any positive screen must be confirmed to be legally viable. Samples that test positive in Screening require confirmation through a secondary process.
Should a sample result positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the existing specimen and processed for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than other methodologies (like urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug screening is considered challenging.
Confirmation for positive screening outcomes is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that presumptively test positive undergo washing as necessary before confirmation. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and accredited to the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Plainfield, PA
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy in substance detection. This method's longer detection window and difficulty to tamper with make it the more reliable choice for employers.
Extended Detection Window in Plainfield, PA
Hair follicle testing is advantageous for its ability to detect drugs over an extended period, up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a complete picture of an individual's substance use history, ensuring informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Plainfield, PA
The risk of sample tampering is significantly reduced with hair follicle tests. This method offers reliable and unquestionable results, making it a trustworthy option for substance detection.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Plainfield, PA
Our nationwide network of testing centers, including those in Plainfield, PA, offers convenient and hassle-free access to drug testing services wherever needed.
Simple, Confidential Process in Plainfield, PA
Our process for ordering, administering, and receiving results is straightforward and respects privacy. Clients can be assured of a simple and confidential experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Plainfield, PA
Our competitive pricing and quick results turnaround ensure businesses of all sizes get the best value without sacrificing quality or peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Plainfield, PA
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and quick results. These tests provide a high degree of accuracy when it comes to detecting substances, making them an excellent choice for those needing reliable data quickly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Plainfield, PA
Employers can ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies by utilizing hair follicle tests. This approach minimizes legal risks and promotes a safe work environment, providing peace of mind.
