Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now widely regarded as an effective means to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair secures a prolonged history of substances by capturing chemical indicators within the strands as they grow. If gathered near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and various drugs. Hair is easy to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
An ideal sample comprises a 1.5-inch length of nearly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the heft of a #2 pencil), which equates to roughly 100mg required for testing and verification. For EtG, additional options, and/or examinations beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the material is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is suggested for weighing the sample. Should scalp hair not be accessible, a comparable quantity of body hair is an alternative. When discussing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair forms (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The key procedures in the lab analysis of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial handling of a sample into a laboratory’s records. It involves ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addressing any supplementary data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening constitutes a preliminary rapid assessment for illicit substances. While it serves as an economical method to dismiss drug presence in most cases, a positive result necessitates further verification for legal admissibility. Samples that indicate potential drug presence through Screening require additional confirmation.
Should a specimen indicate positive results in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for the Extraction stage. Here, substances are withdrawn from the hair at a much diminished concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug analysis is the most challenging technique.
Verification of positive Screening outcomes is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples presumed positive undergo a cleaning process before confirmation as necessary. The entirety of the lab workflow, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is conducted under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed "hair follicle tests," the actual analysis is done on the hair strand itself, and not the follicle located under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Canning, SD
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing in Canning, SD, provides a superior method for detecting drug use. The benefits of hair testing include higher accuracy and reliability. Hair analysis can detect drug use over a longer period, making it more effective than urine tests, which only capture recent substance consumption. This superior detection capability ensures a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's drug history.
Extended Detection Window in Canning, SD
One of the significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to reveal drug use over an extended period of up to 90 days. In Canning, SD, this feature provides employers with a more comprehensive view of an applicant or employee's substance history, aiding in making informed hiring or disciplinary decisions. The extended detection window of hair tests far surpasses the brief period detectable by traditional urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Canning, SD
Hair follicle tests in Canning, SD, offer a robust and tamper-resistant method for drug testing. This approach significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring that results are both reliable and unquestionable. The difficulty in manipulating hair samples contrasts with other testing methods, providing a secure option for obtaining accurate assessments of drug use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Canning, SD
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including Canning, SD, ensures quick, easy, and hassle-free access to drug testing services. This convenience allows for efficient scheduling and results processing, making it easier for individuals and organizations to obtain necessary tests without delays.
Simple, Confidential Process in Canning, SD
The hair follicle drug testing process in Canning, SD, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, each step prioritizes privacy and ease. This approach addresses concerns about confidentiality, ensuring individuals feel secure in taking the test and receiving their results discreetly.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Canning, SD
We offer competitive pricing and quick turnaround times for hair testing services in Canning, SD, delivering excellent value to companies of all sizes. Our cost-effective structure, combined with fast processing of results, ensures organizations receive reliable drug screening without financial strain, accommodating both budget constraints and operational needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Canning, SD
Hair follicle drug testing offers unparalleled precision and speed in detecting substance use. In Canning, SD, this method stands out for its accuracy, making it the preferred choice for those who prioritize reliable results. The advanced technology behind hair analysis ensures that test outcomes are trustworthy and delivered promptly, contributing to informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Canning, SD
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Canning, SD, helps employers maintain compliance with workplace drug-free policies, mitigating legal risks and enhancing overall workplace safety. This testing method offers peace of mind, knowing that drug use can be accurately detected and properly managed, fostering a safer and more productive work environment.
