Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained prominence as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers within the strands of growing hair, hair offers a comprehensive timeline of substance use. When gathered adjacent to the scalp, it can reveal drug and alcohol use within an approximately 3-month scope. Collection is straightforward, manipulation is challenging, and shipping is convenient.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg, which is the perfect amount for initial screening and validation. For assessments like EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is suggested. It’s advisable to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t present, an equivalent volume of body hair can be gathered. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Procedure Summary
The lab processing of drug tests consists of four fundamental stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the step where samples are initially processed in a lab system. This stage ensures proper sealing and shipment of samples, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial swift assessment for drugs of abuse. While it’s a cost-efficient method to exclude drug presence in most cases, any positive preliminary result requires confirmation to be legally acceptable. Samples that may show positive results during Screening need secondary confirmation.
For samples potentially positive from Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. This phase involves removing drugs from hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug testing especially complex.
Confirmation of any potential positive from screening is accomplished via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All potential positives undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is conducted under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug analysis:
Drawbacks:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", these analyses actually evaluate the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, the former stands out in Van Voorhis, PA. Hair testing provides a longer detection window, offering a more detailed analysis of past drug use. Employers and legal entities benefit from the superior reliability and accuracy of hair samples, reducing the chance of erroneous negative results common with other methods.
Extended Detection Window
In Van Voorhis, PA, hair follicle analysis is notable for its ability to trace drug use extending up to 90 days. This prolonged detection period allows employers to gain valuable insights into the substance habits of applicants or employees, offering a thorough evaluation of their historical substance use, which is vital for maintaining workplace safety and compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
In Van Voorhis, PA, the hair follicle test exemplifies a tamper-proof testing integrity, vastly lowering the risk of sample adulteration. This ensures the authenticity and trustworthiness of results, providing undeniable verification and assurance for those seeking reliable drug testing outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations
Accredited Drug Testing guarantees convenience with a vast network of testing centers, including in Van Voorhis, PA. This extensive reach equips individuals and companies with swift, hassle-free access to testing services, ensuring that drug screening is a streamlined process no matter the location.
Simple, Confidential Process
Our process in Van Voorhis, PA, is streamlined for ease and discretion. From ordering and sample collection to receiving results, every step prioritizes confidentiality and simplicity, swiftly addressing any privacy concerns while delivering accurate outcomes that support decision-making for employers and individuals alike.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
With competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times, we offer outstanding value for businesses of all sizes in Van Voorhis, PA. Our efficient service ensures that companies can receive timely and trustworthy drug testing results without financial strain, supporting proactive workforce management.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Van Voorhis, PA, hair follicle testing is paramount for its quick and precise outcomes. The method offers a high degree of accuracy and expeditiously unveils any substance use. This swift and dependable process ensures that businesses can quickly make informed decisions based on robust data about potential substance use among individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Hair follicle testing in Van Voorhis, PA, affords employers the assurance of compliance with stringent workplace drug-free regulations. This method reduces potential legal challenges and fosters a safer, more accountable working environment, where employers can prioritize the health and safety of their workforce.
