Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive history of alcohol and other substances by capturing biomarkers within its fibers as it grows. When sourced near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. Collection is straightforward, tampering is relatively challenging, and transportation is convenient.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches from around 200 hair strands (similar to a #2 pencil in thickness) nearest the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for screening and verifying. For EtG, additional tests, and panels exceeding 10, a sample of 150mg is suggested. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unobtainable, an equivalent quantity of body hair is suitable for collection. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Conversely, body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing lab procedure entails four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is introduced into the laboratory system. This procedure includes ensuring the sample's seal and proper shipping are intact, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any missing data not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary examination for drug presence. Although Screening efficiently rules out drug use for most samples cost-effectively, a positive result demands confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening require further confirmation.
If a specimen tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are removed from hair at significantly lesser concentrations than found in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), showcasing the complexity of hair drug analysis.
A positive screening result undergoes Confirmation using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positives are washed appropriately before confirmation. The full laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is subject to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing is gaining favor in Whitaker, PA, as it surpasses the traditional urine test in many respects. With a longer detection period and enhanced accuracy, hair testing provides a higher assurance for identifying substance use. Combined with minimal risk of tampering, it presents an advantageous alternative for thorough screening.
Employers in Whitaker, PA, value the extended detection window offered by hair follicle testing, which can reveal drug use over a 90-day period. This comprehensive overview helps assess an individual's historical substance habits, aiding in making informed employment decisions.
The hair follicle testing method significantly lowers the chances of sample tampering, making it a reliable choice in Whitaker, PA. By mitigating risk factors associated with adulteration, this testing approach delivers unquestionable and reliable outcomes.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient nationwide locations, including in Whitaker, PA, ensuring effortless access to testing services. Our broad network contributes to a seamless, hassle-free experience, making testing accessible to businesses and individuals alike.
In Whitaker, PA, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the process is designed to be smooth and private, addressing any concerns users may have about privacy and ease of use.
Our services in Whitaker, PA, emphasize affordable pricing and swift turnaround times, offering substantial value to businesses of all sizes. Coupled with competitive rates, our efficient services assure peace of mind and support compliance needs.
In Whitaker, PA, hair follicle drug testing stands out for its speed and precision. These tests provide accurate results, reliably detecting substance use to ensure individuals are adhering to requirements. Their quick turnaround time makes them an excellent choice for employers who need fast yet dependable results.
For Whitaker, PA employers, hair follicle testing supports compliance with drug-free workplace policies, thereby reducing legal risks and fostering a safer work environment. This testing option offers peace of mind, knowing that comprehensive and reliable measures are in place.
