Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair strand analysis has emerged as a formidable resource for detecting substance and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive history of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer up to an estimated 3-month detection window for alcohol and other substances. Hair is easy to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional panels, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It's suggested to measure the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is inaccessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When referring to head hair, this indicates scalp hair exclusively. Body hair denotes all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four principal stages in the laboratory examination of a drug test sample are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial incorporation of a sample into the laboratory’s system. This process confirms that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug usage for the majority of samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be considered valid in a legal context. Any samples presumed positive in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepped for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (ex. urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is considered the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any screening result yielding a positive outcome is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples are cleansed prior to confirmation as required. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is done on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Marion, SC
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, hair follicles provide clear advantages. They offer a longer detection period, enhancing accuracy in identifying long-term usage trends. This method allows a thorough understanding of an individual’s substance history, giving a clearer overview than the short window urine tests provide.
Extended Detection Window in Marion, SC
With hair follicle testing, the period covered in detecting substance use extends up to 90 days, offering employers comprehensive insights into an applicant or employee's drug history. This extended window is crucial for creating a safe and dependable environment within organizations.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Marion, SC
Hair follicle tests are inherently resistant to tampering, offering a more reliable and indisputable result. Unlike other methods, these tests make dodging detection extremely difficult, ensuring the integrity and trustworthiness of the process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Marion, SC
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation ensures that you can have quick and easy access to hair follicle testing. This accessibility facilitates hassle-free testing, regardless of your location in or around Marion, SC.
Simple, Confidential Process in Marion, SC
The process of obtaining, taking, and receiving results from a hair follicle test is designed to be as straightforward and confidential as possible. This approach respects your privacy while ensuring that you receive clear and timely outcomes.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Marion, SC
Hair follicle testing guarantees excellent value with its competitive pricing and rapid turnaround. These tests are designed to meet the needs of companies of all sizes, ensuring budget-friendly options without compromising on speed or quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Marion, SC
Hair follicle drug testing provides precise outcomes with its ability to uncover substance use with high accuracy. Its reliability ensures correct findings, helping employers and individuals make informed decisions. Coupled with advanced analysis techniques, these tests deliver rapid and trustworthy results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Marion, SC
Employers who choose hair follicle testing can ensure a drug-free workplace, adhering to both internal policies and legal standards. This approach not only mitigates legal risks but also contributes to a safer work environment by reassuring adherence to compliance requirements.
