Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for detecting the usage of drugs and alcohol. Hair serves as a repository for long-term usage data of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands as the hair grows. When harvested close to the scalp, hair can offer up to a roughly 3-month timeline for detecting alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample comprising approximately 200 strands of hair (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg—ideal for both screening and confirming tests. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's best to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair cannot be acquired, an equivalent amount of body hair may be used. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial procedure of integrating a sample into a laboratory’s system. This step involves confirming that the sample was properly sealed and delivered, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is a cost-effective approach to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive outcome requires confirmation to be legally valid. Any samples with presumptive positive results during Screening necessitate further validation.
Should a sample be presumptively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen for the Extraction phase. During this stage, drugs are isolated from the hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), contributing to the complexity of performing hair drug screening.
The Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples with presumptive positive results undergo a washing process before confirmation as needed. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation, in addition to accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Claremont, SD
The advantage of hair follicle testing over traditional urine analysis in Claremont is significant, offering enhanced accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair analysis offers a more extended detection window, capturing substance use over several months.
This method mitigates inaccuracies and potential tampering, ensuring employers receive truthful assessments of employee substance use.
Extended Detection Window in Claremont, SD
Hair follicle testing offers a prolonged detection period, spanning up to 90 days, providing greater insight into an individual's drug use history.
Employers in Claremont can access clearer evaluations of applicants' or employees' substance use patterns.
This analysis surpasses shorter-term methods, enhancing decision-making processes for maintaining a safe work environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Claremont, SD
In Claremont, hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of tampering, offering a highly reliable and defensible means of assessing substance use.
The integrity of samples ensures trustworthy outcomes, limiting the potential for manipulated results.
Employers favor this approach for its robustness and verifiable accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Claremont, SD
Accredited Drug Testing's widespread facilities offer convenient access to testing, ensuring a smooth experience for individuals and businesses alike.
Our Claremont location, among many nationwide, assures quick and easy processing, eliminating unnecessary delays or inconveniences.
The proximity and availability of these locations support efficient operational procedures.
Simple, Confidential Process in Claremont, SD
The process for hair follicle testing remains simple and private, addressing concerns regarding confidentiality and ease.
From scheduling to receiving results, clients in Claremont benefit from a straightforward, customer-oriented approach that prioritizes discretion.
This confidentiality maintains trust, providing a seamless experience for individuals engaging in testing.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Claremont, SD
We offer competitive pricing models and speedier result delivery, guaranteeing exceptional value for businesses of varying sizes.
Clients in Claremont benefit from cost-efficient solutions without compromising quality or promptness of outcomes.
This approach enhances employer satisfaction while addressing financial constraints effectively.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Claremont, SD
Hair follicle drug tests in Claremont provide rapid and trustworthy outcomes. In contrast to alternative methods, hair testing showcases exceptional precision in identifying drug use, ensuring peace of mind for employers.
This testing procedure swiftly determines substance use, facilitating prompt decision-making for workplaces.
The reliability of these tests ensures a higher standard of workplace safety and regulatory adherence.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Claremont, SD
Employers utilizing hair follicle tests in Claremont can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks and enhancing safety.
These tests provide clear evidence of compliance, fostering a secure environment and demonstrating organizational commitment to employee wellbeing.
Such practices bolster reputation and assurance in maintaining operational standards.