Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. Collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection span of up to about three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to send.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in width to a #2 pencil) close to the scalp yields 100mg, ideal for preliminary and confirmatory tests. For EtG enhancements or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen is suggested. If scalp hair is not present, a comparable volume of body hair can be used. References to head hair mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair includes all other varieties (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The procedure of laboratory analysis for drug testing incorporates four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the primary stage where the sample enters the lab’s system. It involves confirming the sample’s proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing necessary data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial, swift evaluation for substance abuse. Although Screening efficiently excludes drug consumption in the majority of cases, a positive outcome requires confirmation to be court-acceptable. Samples that are potentially positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
If a sample indicates positive during Screening, additional hair is drawn from the original specimen and readied for Extraction. Here, substances are retrieved from hair at much lower levels than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most challenging methodology to execute.
Final confirmation of any positive results from screening is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All suspected positive specimens undergo washing before confirmation if needed. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire laboratory process is reviewed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and is accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug analysis:
Drawbacks:
Note: While often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand and not on the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Swissvale, PA
Comparing hair follicle and urine tests, hair testing takes the lead with superior detection accuracy and reliability. Its extensive detection period surpasses urine tests considerably, making it the preferred option for true insights into an individual's substance use patterns.
While urine tests have their place, hair testing provides an unbeatable accuracy margin, capturing drug use history better than any traditional method. This reliability introduces confidence in interpreting test results, without the doubt often associated with urine-based testing.
Extended Detection Window in Swissvale, PA
One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged period, typically up to 90 days. This extended window provides employers with a thorough understanding of an applicant's or employee's substance use history, setting it apart from other testing methods.
For those committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace, the long-term insight gained from hair follicle tests is invaluable. It enables a complete overview of a person's habits, supporting informed decision-making based on substantive history rather than recent behavior alone.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Swissvale, PA
Hair follicle testing stands out with its resistance to tampering. The collection technique prevents sample adulteration, thus ensuring the results are beyond reproach and genuinely reflect an individual's substance use.
This resilience to interference makes hair testing the gold standard in reliability. Employers can rest assured that what they see in the results mirrors the truth, providing peace of mind in knowing that the integrity of the sample has been preserved throughout the process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Swissvale, PA
Our nationwide network of testing centers brings unequaled convenience, offering quick and straightforward access to drug testing services. This extensive reach ensures that individuals in Swissvale, PA, and across the nation can avail themselves of hassle-free testing.
Local facilities in Swissvale complement our national presence, making it easier than ever to access the necessary testing resources without the difficulty of travel or extended waiting periods.
Simple, Confidential Process in Swissvale, PA
The hair follicle testing process is streamlined for simplicity and maintains confidentiality throughout. From ordering to test administration and results, every step is designed to respect privacy and ensure ease of use for all participants.
Addressing privacy concerns is paramount, and our process ensures that information remains secure. Participants can confidently partake in testing without fear of compromised data, promoting a trusted testing environment.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Swissvale, PA
Our competitive pricing structures coupled with swift return times on results offer remarkable value, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can access the powerful advantages of hair follicle drug testing.
With rapid turnarounds, you can expect timely answers without financial burden. Employers appreciate the balance of cost-effectiveness and performance, seeing considerable benefits for minimal investment.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Swissvale, PA
Hair follicle drug tests offer swift and precise results, establishing them as an indispensable tool for those requiring quick and trustworthy testing solutions. Their ability to accurately identify substance use sets them apart, making them a favored choice for many organizations searching for reliable testing methods.
The commitment to accuracy in hair drug testing means results you can trust. This process eliminates possibilities for error, providing assurance that can inform significant decisions, especially in workplaces that prioritize safety and compliance.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Swissvale, PA
Adopting hair follicle testing for your workplace drug-free policies brings compliance, reduces legal risks, and enhances safety. Employers gain peace of mind knowing they are meeting regulatory standards efficiently while also fostering a healthy working environment.
Using hair testing ensures proactive policy enforcement, maintaining a secure workplace culture. Employers benefit from reduced exposure to litigation and increased trust in the screening process, safeguarding both workers and business reputation.
