Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers within the fibers of growing hair strands, hair provides a comprehensive long-term record of substance use. When collected near the scalp, hair offers an approximate 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, and the sample is relatively tamper-resistant and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion consisting of about 200 strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for screening and confirmation. For EtG add-ons or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. It is recommended to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedures for drug testing involve four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample's seal and shipment were intact, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data entry not furnished by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial assessment for drugs of abuse. Although cost-efficient for ruling out drug presence in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for court admissibility. Samples testing presumptively positive during Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
Should the Screening stage indicate a presumptive positive result, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair but at much lower concentrations than other methods, like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening notably challenging.
Positive screening results are verified via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The full lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand itself, not on the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Box Elder, SD, hair follicle testing stands out due to its superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. These tests offer reliable insights into substance use.
Hair testing is more dependable in identifying drug use and is less susceptible to tampering, providing greater accuracy for employers and other stakeholders.
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing in Box Elder, SD enables employers to assess an individual's substance use over a period of up to 90 days.
This long-term detection provides a comprehensive view of one's drug history, aiding employers in making informed decisions regarding hiring and continued employment.
Hair follicle tests in Box Elder, SD significantly mitigate the risk of sample tampering, ensuring results remain trustworthy.
The integrity of hair testing makes it almost impossible to adulterate, offering peace of mind and confidence in the testing process.
Accredited Drug Testing's nationwide centers offer convenient hair testing services, making it easy for individuals in Box Elder, SD to access testing without hassle.
With testing locations strategically placed, our services guarantee easy and quick access, wherever you are located.
The process of ordering and conducting hair follicle tests in Box Elder, SD is simple and confidential, ensuring privacy is maintained throughout.
With straightforward procedures from start to finish, individuals can feel assured that ease of use and confidentiality are priorities.
In Box Elder, SD, competitive pricing and quick turnaround times distinguish our hair testing services. We offer value and promptness to employers of all sizes.
By ensuring affordability and efficiency, we provide excellent value, allowing companies to perform cost-effective employee monitoring.
In Box Elder, SD, hair follicle drug tests provide fast, accurate, and reliable outcomes. Their high precision and rapid detection make them an ideal choice for determining substance use.
The efficiency of hair follicle testing ensures that results are swiftly produced without compromising accuracy. Users can trust these tests for their dependable detection capabilities.
Employers in Box Elder, SD benefit from hair follicle testing as it helps uphold drug-free policies, ensuring compliance and reducing legal complications.
The use of hair testing not only bolsters workplace safety but also provides employers with peace of mind by minimizing risks associated with substance abuse.
