Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Williamsport, PA

What it is, How it works

The use of hair testing has emerged as a powerful method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a long-term record of alcohol and drug exposure by capturing biomarkers within the strands. When hair is collected close to the scalp, it can offer a detection timeframe of up to roughly 3 months for various substances. Hair collection is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and easy to transport.

A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to weigh the specimen on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair may be gathered. When we mention head hair, we are specifically referring to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial phase of integrating a sample into a lab’s system. This step ensures the sample is correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening involves a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be valid in a legal context. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening need further confirmation.

For a sample showing presumptive positivity in the Screening phase, more hair is taken from the initial specimen for the Extraction phase. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies.

Confirmation of positive screening results is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if needed. The full laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation according to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug usage for as long as 90 days, whereas urine tests have a shorter detection timeframe.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating a hair drug test is quite difficult, resulting in more precise outcomes.
• Shows usage history: It can depict a pattern of drug consumption over time, not just recent ingestion.

Limitations:

• Cannot determine recent usage: It takes about 5-7 days for drugs to be traceable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests are typically more costly than other drug testing approaches.
• Result variations: Factors such as hair color and personal differences in hair growth can influence drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Although often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Williamsport, PA
Comparing hair tests against urine reveals superior accuracy and reliability in hair analysis. This method provides broader detection of substance use, making it preferable for zero-tolerance policies.

Hair follicle testing offers an enhanced detection window, unlike traditional urine tests, presenting a comprehensive view of one's drug history. Its reliability surpasses conventional methods, providing essential insights for employers.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Williamsport, PA
Hair follicle testing excels with its extended detection capability, identifying substance use for up to 90 days. This durability offers employers a complete view of an individual's drug history, making it an invaluable tool in hiring.

The prolonged detection period ensures accuracy, helping employers assess the true substance habits of applicants and employees. This extended window provides peace of mind for workplace safety.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Williamsport, PA
Hair follicle analysis significantly reduces the risk of sample tampering. Its observed collection process ensures authenticity, delivering reliable and unquestioned results.

Employers benefit from the secure nature of hair testing, eliminating doubts about sample integrity. This tamper-proof method is crucial for maintaining trust in the testing process.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Williamsport, PA
Our extensive network of testing centers offers convenience, with locations countrywide to facilitate swift, effortless access to testing services.

The wide availability of our centers ensures that employers and individuals in Williamsport can easily schedule necessary tests without hassle, maintaining continuity and compliance.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Williamsport, PA
The hair testing process is straightforward, offering simplicity from ordering to results. Privacy concerns are addressed, ensuring a discreet experience.

With an emphasis on confidentiality, the testing procedure empowers individuals to engage securely, maintaining privacy throughout the entire testing lifecycle and offering a stress-free service.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Williamsport, PA
Our competitive pricing structure complements the quick turnaround of hair testing, offering significant value for businesses.

Efficient results coupled with affordable rates prove essential for companies in managing drug policies effectively. Providing peace of mind and financial feasibility enhances overall satisfaction with the testing process.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Williamsport, PA
Hair follicle testing stands out for its unparalleled precision and swiftness. The method's accuracy is unmatched, detecting substance use efficiently. Rely on hair follicle drug tests for precise results, ensuring that detections are both quick and accurate.

Employers in Williamsport trust hair analysis for its rapid turnaround and dependability. The process guarantees high-level accuracy, making it an ideal choice for maintaining a drug-free workplace.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Williamsport, PA
Employing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies. It helps reduce legal risks and promotes a safe working environment.

For employers, the compliance benefits provided by hair analysis promote peace of mind. Ensuring safety and adherence to regulations is essential in fostering a reliable and productive workplace atmosphere.

Drug Testing Near Williamsport, PA

Salladasburg, PA

Muncy, PA

Dewart, PA

Allenwood, PA

Trout Run, PA

Elimsport, PA

Warrensville, PA

Montoursville, PA

Garden View, PA

Duboistown, PA

Kenmar, PA

Faxon, PA

South Williamsport, PA