Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a long-term record of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When gathered near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to about three months for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising roughly 200 strands akin to the size of a #2 pencil, close to the scalp, will provide 100mg of hair, an ideal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is preferred. Using a jeweler's scale is suggested for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When referencing head hair, it pertains exclusively to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing laboratory procedure consists of four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into the lab’s system. This process involves confirming that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not facilitated by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary quick examination for substances of abuse. While Screening provides a cost-effective means to rule out substance usage in most samples, a positive screen must be validated for legal admissibility. Samples with presumptive positive findings during Screening require an additional confirmation step.
Should a sample appear presumptively positive during Screening, more hair is obtained from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are removed from hair at lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug testing presents the most challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive findings during Screening is conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair code and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", this test actually examines the hair strand and not the follicle below the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Reynolds Heights, PA
Hair follicle testing offers numerous advantages over traditional urine tests, especially in Reynolds Heights, PA. The primary benefit is its superior detection window, capable of identifying drug use for up to 90 days. This extended detection surpasses the limitations of urine tests, which are often unable to detect usage beyond a few days.
Moreover, hair testing is highly resistant to tampering, providing reliable results that urine tests sometimes fail to offer. This reliability gives employers peace of mind, ensuring that policies remain uncompromised. The advanced detection capabilities and tamper-proof nature of hair tests make them the preferred choice for many in the region.
Extended Detection Window in Reynolds Heights, PA
In Reynolds Heights, PA, hair follicle testing stands out due to its extended detection window. Unlike other tests, it can trace substance use for up to 90 days, offering a comprehensive overview of an individual's drug history. This wide detection period is particularly advantageous for employers wanting a detailed understanding of a potential employee's behavior.
Employers seeking to maintain a drug-free workplace find hair testing invaluable for its ability to uncover long-term drug use. This long detection span allows businesses to make more informed hiring decisions, ultimately enhancing workplace safety and productivity.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Reynolds Heights, PA
Hair follicle tests in Reynolds Heights, PA, set the standard for tamper resistance. Unlike other methods, hair testing significantly decreases the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring accurate and unquestionable results every time. This robustness makes it an ideal choice for agencies and employers seeking reliable testing methods.
With its inherent tamper-proof nature, hair follicle testing delivers results that you can trust. Its highly secure testing process ensures that the integrity of the sample remains intact, providing true peace of mind to those relying on its accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Reynolds Heights, PA
Our nationwide network, including local centers in Reynolds Heights, PA, makes accessing hair follicle testing convenient and hassle-free. Individuals and businesses can enjoy swift service at these locations without the inconvenience of extensive travel. Efficiency coupled with proximity assures quick service for all testing needs.
Whether a single test or multiple assessments, our local and nationwide presence guarantees that professional drug testing services are readily accessible. The extensive coverage simplifies the scheduling process, streamlining access to testing facilities for all.
Simple, Confidential Process in Reynolds Heights, PA
In Reynolds Heights, PA, the hair follicle testing process is simple and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, each step is straightforward, alleviating privacy concerns. This simplicity is paired with a strict focus on confidentiality, ensuring user information remains secure throughout the process.
Concerns about privacy are assuaged with our efficient systems designed to protect personal information while delivering timely results. The ease of use, combined with confidentiality, ensures a positive experience for all who undergo testing.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Reynolds Heights, PA
Hair follicle testing in Reynolds Heights, PA, is characterized by competitive pricing and quick turnaround times. Our cost-effective structures provide excellent value, accommodating companies regardless of size. The affordability does not compromise on speed, with results delivered promptly to support quick decision-making.
Businesses seeking to maximize budgets while maintaining a rigorous drug policy vastly benefit from the pricing structures offered. Affordable yet efficient, hair testing delivers results swiftly without stretching company resources, making it an appealing option.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Reynolds Heights, PA
Hair follicle drug testing is renowned for its precision and speed. This method offers high accuracy, essential for reliably detecting substance use. Employing advanced techniques, these tests swiftly deliver results, ensuring both accuracy and dependability. Conclusively, hair testing is an invaluable tool for verifying substance usage with minimal errors.
In Reynolds Heights, PA, businesses and individuals prefer hair testing for its accuracy and fast processing. With results being efficiently processed, stakeholders can quickly verify the presence of drugs, making informed decisions. This makes hair testing not only a convenient option but also a crucial element in maintaining a drug-free environment.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Reynolds Heights, PA
Employers in Reynolds Heights, PA, greatly benefit from hair follicle testing as it ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. By implementing hair testing, businesses reduce legal risks while fostering a safer work environment. The reliable results offered by hair testing provide reassurance and peace of mind to employers.
Moreover, hair testing bolsters workplace safety by discouraging drug use. The robust nature of the test aligns with regulatory standards, thereby reducing potential legal complications and reinforcing a healthy workplace culture.
