What it is, How it works

Recognized as an effective means to discern alcohol and drug consumption, hair testing captures long-term patterns by embedding biomarkers in the hair's fibers. When collected near the scalp, this can offer a detection window for substances spanning up to about three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easy to send.

An optimal sample consists of a 1.5-inch length of around 200 hair strands (approximating the thickness of a #2 pencil), yielding 100mgâ€”the preferred quantity for analysis. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, 150mg is advised. It's best to measure the sample with a jeweler's scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount of body hair is suitable. 'Head hair' refers specifically to scalp strands, while 'body hair' encompasses all other types (such as facial or axillary).

Process Overview

The central phases in the lab analysis of a drug test consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning encompasses the sample's preliminary processing within the lab's framework. This entails checking the integrity of sealing and shipping, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing extra data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody.

Screening performs an initial evaluation for substances of abuse. Though cost-efficient in eliminating most suspects of drug use, a positive finding here requires validation for it to hold up legally. Every sample flagged as presumptively positive during Screening demands further verification.

If a sample is flagged as potential positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is sourced from the initial collection for Extraction. This process isolates drugs at significantly lower concentrations than usual testing mediums (e.g., urine or oral fluids), illustrating the complexity of hair drug testing.

Verification for any positive discovered in screening is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Each tentative positive sample undergoes washing before confirmation as necessary. The entirety of the lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Extended detection timeline: Hair tests trace drug usage up to 90 days, in contrast to urine tests that offer a brief detection timeline.
Difficulty in manipulation: Hair tests are well-protected against deceit, ensuring more reliable outcomes.
Supplies historical insights: It reflects a backdrop of substance use over time, as opposed to only recent activity.

Limitations:

Inability to detect recent usage: It takes about 5-7 days for hair to manifest drugs.
Expense: Hair drug examinations are typically pricier than alternative testing modalities.
Inconsistencies in findings: Elements like hair color and individual growth variability can sway metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Commonly dubbed "hair follicle tests", the examination actually targets the hair shaft, not the follicle beneath the skin.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Blunt, SD
The benefits of choosing hair testing over traditional urine tests are evident in their superior detection and reliability.

Hair tests detect substance usage over a more extended period.
The accuracy of these tests remains consistent, reducing the chance of false negatives.

Hair testing thus offers employers in Blunt, SD a more reliable option.

Unlike urine tests, which are susceptible to tampering, hair tests provide unbeatable reliability and trustworthiness.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Blunt, SD
Hair follicle tests offer a detection period of up to 90 days, significantly longer than other methods.

This allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an individual’s substance history.
The longer detection window supports a more informed decision-making process.

This makes hair testing an invaluable tool for assessing applicant and employee history.

Employers can rely on this method for a rich, comprehensive history of drug use.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Blunt, SD
Hair follicle tests stand out due to their resistance to tampering, ensuring valid results.

These tests are virtually impossible to adulterate.
The integrity of the sample remains intact through the process.

With hair testing, organizations can trust the results without fear of manipulation.

This provides a level of reliability and confidence that supports drug-free workplace policies effectively.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Blunt, SD
Our nationwide testing centers mean easy accessibility for everyone.

Get quick testing at any center without hassle.
Enjoy convenience with our widespread locations ensuring minimal disruptions.

Offering both local and national reach, our services are just around the corner.

Testing in Blunt is both efficient and simplified with our strategic placement of centers.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Blunt, SD
Our hair follicle testing process is straightforward and respects privacy.

Ordering, taking, and receiving results are streamlined for client ease.
Confidentiality is maintained throughout, ensuring peace of mind.

Clients in Blunt, SD appreciate the simplicity combined with discretion.

Addressing privacy concerns, the process is designed to be user-friendly and secure.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Blunt, SD
We provide cost-effective solutions without compromising on service or speed.

Competitive pricing that fits businesses of all sizes.
Quick turnaround times, ensuring minimal waiting for results.

With our services, companies receive excellent value and assurance.

Our pricing and speed make hair testing a valuable resource for any organization.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Blunt, SD
Hair follicle drug tests deliver prompt, dependable, and precise results.

The high accuracy of these tests ensures accurate detection of substance use.
Rapid processing times provide quick turnaround for results, making them ideal for urgent needs.

This ensures that employers can make informed decisions promptly.

With the ability to detect diverse substances accurately, hair testing supports organizations in maintaining safe, drug-free environments.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Blunt, SD
Hair follicle testing is an effective way for employers to ensure compliance with drug-free policies.