Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers in the strands as they grow. When taken near the scalp, hair can reflect up to a three-month usage history for alcohol and drugs. It is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and containing about 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil size) will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair isn’t available, a comparable quantity of body hair may be used. "Head hair" refers solely to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where the sample is integrated into a laboratory’s system. It involves checking that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary rapid analysis for drugs of abuse. While it's an economical approach to dismiss drug presence in most samples, a screen indicating positivity must be validated to be legally acceptable. Thus, any samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening require a secondary verification.
If a sample yields a presumptively positive result during Screening, further hair is taken from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are drawn from hair in much lesser concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug screening the most intricate method to execute.
Confirmation for any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptively positive undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning through Confirmation, undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Catawba, SC
While traditional urine tests have their place, hair follicle tests deliver superior detection and reliability. The advantage lies in a greater accuracy rate, with hair tests covering a longer detection span than urine analysis, enabling more thorough vetting in drug use policies.
Extended Detection Window in Catawba, SC
Hair follicle testing unveils drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days, providing employers a thorough insight into an employee’s or candidate's substance records. This extended view helps in fostering a workplace adhering to drug-free principles effectively.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Catawba, SC
Hair follicle analysis substantially minimizes the chance of sample manipulation. It stands as a robust method, ensuring tests are untampered and results remain credible, offering unparalleled trustworthiness in substance testing practices.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Catawba, SC
With our widespread testing centers, accessing drug testing services is seamless and effortless. Local and national facilities ensure quick and stress-free testing capability, allowing for extensive reach and convenience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Catawba, SC
Ordering, undergoing, and receiving results from hair follicle testing is straightforward and discreet. The process prioritizes user privacy, showcasing an uncomplicated method that respects individual confidentiality every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Catawba, SC
We offer competitive pricing models and rapid result delivery, presenting excellent value for businesses of diverse scales. Our services ensure timely and budget-conscious solutions, enhancing economic access to reliable testing.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Catawba, SC
Hair follicle testing swiftly produces results, offering a high level of precision in detecting substances. The method exceeds as a rapid response option for discerning individuals' drug usage, ensuring that organizations can proceed with confidence regarding substance compliance.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Catawba, SC
Incorporating hair follicle tests secures compliance with drug-free workplace regulations by greatly reducing legal exposure and fostering a secure work environment. Employers achieve peace of mind, knowing they maintain stringent drug use oversight.
