Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a timeline of drug presence by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. A sample taken near the scalp can offer a detection period of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hairs (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) from the scalp provides 100mg, which is the optimal amount for both screening and validation. For EtG testing or more comprehensive panels exceeding 10 tests, a sample size of 150mg is suggested. It is advisable to measure the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair refers to all other hair categories (such as facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result encompasses four major phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is processed into a lab’s system. This step confirms the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) at random, and completes any required data entry not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. While this step is an effective strategy for excluding drug use in most cases, any positive screen results need confirmation to be court-admissible. Samples yielding presumptive positives in Screening require further verification.
For samples presumed positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction process. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than from other samples (e.g., urine or oral fluid), showcasing the complexity of hair drug screening methodology.
Positive screening results are verified through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives undergo a washing stage before confirmation as necessary. The full laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is subjected to review under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why hair follicle testing is favored over urine testing in Vale, SD? Hair tests offer superior detection accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. Hair follicle testing can trace drug use over a longer period, while urine tests may miss such details, especially for infrequent users. The comprehensive nature of hair testing provides clearer insights, helping employers make informed decisions while maintaining stricter drug-free environments.
With an extended detection period of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing in Vale, SD provides a detailed overview of an individual’s drug history. This extended window allows employers to make better-informed decisions based on a comprehensive view of potential substance use. This longer detection span ensures that even occasional users are identified, offering a level of accuracy and depth not typically found in standard testing methods.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair testing greatly reduces the risk of sample adulteration in Vale, SD. Hair tests are inherently difficult to alter, offering reliable and authentic results. The sample collection process is monitored, ensuring integrity and peace of mind for those relying on its accuracy. This method is highly favored for its reliability and ability to deliver uncontested results, elevating the credibility of drug testing.
Our nationwide network ensures convenience for those in Vale, SD, providing easy and quick access to testing services. With local and nationwide centers, individuals and businesses can enjoy a hassle-free process when accessing drug testing services. This extensive reach ensures timely testing, further enhancing the appeal and practicality of hair follicle testing services.
In Vale, SD, the process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential. Ordering, testing, and receiving results are simplified to address any privacy concerns and ensure ease of use. The confidential nature of the process guarantees that individuals’ privacy is maintained, making it a preferred choice for many who value discretion and simplicity in testing procedures.
In Vale, SD, our hair follicle testing services are designed to be affordable and efficient for businesses of all sizes. Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times provide unmatched value, making it feasible for companies to maintain a secure work environment. This cost-effectiveness doesn't compromise the quality, establishing both peace of mind and financial prudence.
In Vale, SD, hair follicle drug tests are prized for their speed and reliability. These tests offer remarkable accuracy, ensuring that substance use is detected with precision. The quick processing time means results are delivered promptly, making hair testing the go-to method for individuals and organizations seeking dependable outcomes. Thus, the high accuracy and efficiency of hair testing stand out in detecting recent substance use.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Vale, SD provides employers with compliance assurance and peace of mind. It aligns with workplace drug-free policies, reducing potential legal risks and promoting safety. By using a highly reliable testing method, organizations can ensure they meet regulatory requirements and protect their workforce effectively, fostering a healthier and more secure work environment.
