Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests are now recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of its growth. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal an approximate 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair sampling is straightforward, moderately hard to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) from the scalp gives 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for screening, and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or tests greater than 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar volume of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages in lab processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the introductory phase of entering a sample into the lab's system. It includes ensuring that the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any missing data not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial, rapid check for abuse drugs. While Screening is economical for dismissing drug use in most samples, a confirmed positive screen is needed for legal admissibility. Samples that test tentatively positive in Screening require further Confirmation.
When a sample tests tentatively positive in Screening, extra hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at a much lower concentration than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which accounts for the complexity of hair drug screening.
For any confirmed positive screening result, verification is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples testing tentatively positive are cleansed before confirmation if necessary. The whole lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the evaluation focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Charleston, UT: Hair follicle testing offers greater detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests, making it a preferred choice for many organizations. It successfully identifies drug use over a longer period and is less susceptible to evasion methods, offering a precise and reliable testing method.
Extended Detection Window in Charleston, UT: One of the primary advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to trace drug use for up to 90 days. This extended detection window is invaluable for employers, as it offers a comprehensive view of an individual’s substance use history, assisting in making informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Charleston, UT: Hair follicle tests substantially minimize the chance of sample manipulation, offering unbeatable reliability. The inherent nature of these tests ensures results remain unquestioned, instilling confidence in those who rely on them for drug screening needs.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Charleston, UT: Our extensive network of testing centers across the country makes accessing our services easy and hassle-free. Local and national availability ensures prompt testing, accommodating both individual needs and organizational requirements efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Charleston, UT: Our process for ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is easy and discreet. Addressing privacy concerns, we ensure that individuals experience a straightforward and secure testing process from start to finish.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Charleston, UT: We offer competitive pricing along with quick turnaround times, delivering excellent value for companies of any size. By combining affordability with efficiency, we provide peace of mind and notable savings.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Charleston, UT: Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their speed and precision in detecting substance use. The accuracy of these tests ensures that results are not only fast but also trustworthy, providing a reliable measure for various agencies and employers who prioritize both efficiency and accuracy in their drug testing procedures.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Charleston, UT: Using hair follicle testing helps employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies, reducing potential legal risks. By ensuring compliance, these tests support workplace safety, offering employers the peace of mind that their policies are being effectively enforced.
