Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair evaluations have gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair while it grows. When samples are taken near the scalp, hair can present an approximate 3-month detection period for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and conveniently transportable.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches from roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, considered the optimal amount for screening and verification. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. It's suggested to assess the sample weight using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. References to head hair pertain to scalp hair exclusively. Body hair includes all other hair forms (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four essential phases in a lab for processing a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the introductory processing of a sample into a lab’s system. This phase ensures the sample’s proper sealing and shipping, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in any missing data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody protocol.
Screening entails an initial and swift evaluation for illicit drugs. Although Screening offers a budget-friendly approach to discount drug use in most samples, a positive result from screening must be validated for judicial acceptance. Any samples yielding a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
In the event a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs at a significantly lesser concentration from hair compared to other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), illustrating why hair drug analysis is the most challenging methodology to carry out.
Verification of any positive screening results is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation, as necessary. The exhaustive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes appraisal under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Clawson, UT
In Clawson, UT, hair follicle testing offers superior advantages over urine testing. Hair tests stand out for longer detection periods, up to 90 days, compared to urine's shorter window. This extended timeframe helps in getting a better insight into a person's history of substance use. Further, hair tests are nearly foolproof, minimizing cheating or tampering, and thus enhancing reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Clawson, UT
The hair follicle test offers detection of drug use up to 90 days in the past, proving advantageous for employers in Clawson, UT, who require a detailed understanding of their staff's substance use. This extended window enables an extensive look into an individual's drug history, supporting employers in making informed decisions about their workforce.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Clawson, UT
Hair follicle tests in Clawson significantly mitigate the risk of tampering with samples, ensuring reliable and accurate outcomes. The method resists common adulteration attempts and guarantees unquestionable results. This level of reliability is crucial for stakeholders who require confidence in the accuracy of drug testing.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Clawson, UT
Our nationwide network of testing centers, including locations in Clawson, enhances convenience for individuals and companies seeking drug tests. These centers offer prompt, straightforward access to our services, ensuring that testing is efficient and accessible.
Simple, Confidential Process in Clawson, UT
The process for hair follicle testing in Clawson is both straightforward and private. We prioritize confidentiality in ordering, conducting, and receiving test results, addressing concerns about privacy and ease, and ensuring the process is user-friendly and discreet.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Clawson, UT
In Clawson, our hair follicle testing offers competitive pricing structures and swift turnaround times, delivering outstanding value. Companies, regardless of size, benefit from our cost-effective and timely testing services, securing high-quality drug testing solutions without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Clawson, UT
Hair follicle drug tests in Clawson are known for their speed and accuracy. The precision in detecting substance use ensures reliable results, making them a preferred choice. The process not only delivers quick results but also provides a comprehensive assessment of an individual's drug use history, presenting an accurate snapshot of their behavior over time.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Clawson, UT
Employers in Clawson utilize hair follicle testing to uphold drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal concerns and fostering safer environments. This form of testing ensures compliance with various regulations and offers peace of mind, knowing that a trusted method is in place to maintain workplace integrity.