Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective means to identify substance and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended timeline of alcohol and drug activity by capturing biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. Sampled near the scalp, hair can show a detection period of up to around 90 days for alcohol and other substances. Collecting it is straightforward, somewhat challenging to alter, and convenient to transport.
A sample of hair measuring 1.5 inches comprising roughly 200 strands, approximately the width of a #2 pencil, nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair—the optimal quantity for initial screening and later confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the hair sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair may be selected. When referencing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types, including facial and axillary.
Process Overview
The procedure for laboratory drug test analysis comprises four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of the early processing of a specimen into the laboratory’s framework, including validation of the sample's proper sealing and shipping, allocation of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any supplementary data input absent in an electronic chain of custody mechanism.
Screening constitutes an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. While Screening offers a cost-effective measure to negate drug usage in most specimens, a favorable screen must be validated for legal acceptability. Any specimens that preliminarily test positive during Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
Should a specimen test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at substantially lower concentrations in comparison to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug analysis represents the most complex method to administer.
Verification of any positive Screening result is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples undergo washing as required before verification. The complete laboratory methodology from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the compliance to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Farmer, SD
Compared to traditional urine testing, hair follicle tests offer unmatched detection accuracy and reliability. In Farmer, SD, these tests are superior due to their ability to capture a long-term record of substance use, a feat nearly unattainable by urine tests, which only cover recent drug consumption.
Extended Detection Window in Farmer, SD
The capability of hair follicle tests to detect drug use over an extended period, typically up to 90 days, provides employers in Farmer, SD with a thorough insight into an individual's substance history. This long detection window is invaluable for ensuring a drug-free environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Farmer, SD
Offering a nearly tamper-proof solution, hair follicle tests reduce the chances of adulteration significantly. In Farmer, SD, this method of testing ensures that the results are both reliable and indisputable, bolstering trust in the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Farmer, SD
Our widespread network of testing facilities provides easy, efficient access to drug testing services. For those in Farmer, SD, our local presence means quick and hassle-free service is always available.
Simple, Confidential Process in Farmer, SD
In Farmer, SD, our drug testing process is straightforward and maintains confidentiality at all stages. From ordering a test to obtaining results, we prioritize privacy and user-friendliness, addressing any concerns users may have.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Farmer, SD
With competitive pricing and swift result turnaround times, our services in Farmer, SD deliver substantial value. Employers and individuals alike benefit from cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Farmer, SD
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precise and swift results. In Farmer, SD, these tests stand out by offering high accuracy in substance use detection. The speed at which results are acquired coupled with dependability makes hair follicle testing the go-to choice for both employers and individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Farmer, SD
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps employers in Farmer, SD maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This approach reduces legal liabilities and enhances overall workplace safety, providing peace of mind.
