Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examination has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term trace of alcohol and various drugs by embedding biomarkers in the strands of the hair as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair can offer nearly a 3-month detection period for alcohol and other drugs. Collection of hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample size of 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will result in 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is recommended to use a jeweler's scale for precise measurement of the specimen. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair can be utilized. Reference to head hair specifically pertains to scalp hair, while body hair covers all other types such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The four fundamental steps in the laboratory handling of a drug test analysis include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of integrating the sample into the laboratory's system, involving verification of the sample’s proper sealing and shipment, allocation of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completion of any additional data input not provided via an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. While this is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug utilization in a majority of samples, a positive screening result requires confirmation to be valid in legal scenarios. Samples that show presumptive positive results in Screening require secondary validation.
When a sample shows presumptive positivity in the Screening phase, further hair is taken from the initial sample and set up for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from the hair at a lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug analysis is one of the most complex methods to execute.
Verification of any positive screening outcome is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as required. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair recognition and accreditation according to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually examines the strand of hair and not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Williston, VT
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests in multiple facets. Notably, the detection window is significantly longer, maintaining accuracy even weeks after substance use. This provides a more comprehensive insight into long-term use.
Moreover, hair testing's reliability is unmatched; it virtually eliminates the chance of cheating, unlike urine tests, which are prone to various adulteration tactics. In Williston, VT, this reliability is valued, ensuring trustworthy results.
Extended Detection Window in Williston, VT
The extended detection period offered by hair follicle testing is second to none, capturing drug usage for up to 90 days. This long timeframe gives employers and other concerned parties a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history.
Employers in Williston, VT can gain a comprehensive view of an applicant or employee's substance behavior over an extensive period, allowing for informed decision-making without the limitations of shorter-term methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Williston, VT
Hair follicle tests provide a robust solution against sample manipulation, markedly minimizing the risk of tampering. This method ensures that results are reliable and unquestionable.
In Williston, VT, stakeholders benefit from the secure nature of hair testing, knowing that the integrity of each sample remains intact, thereby fostering trust in the results produced.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Williston, VT
With a network of facilities spanning the nation, access to testing is swift and straightforward wherever you are. Certified centers assure seamless testing experiences.
Local testing centers in Williston, VT ensure that quick, easy, and hassle-free services are readily available, making drug testing convenient for individuals and businesses alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Williston, VT
Ordering and administering hair follicle tests are streamlined, ensuring user-friendly, private processes from start to results. Concerns about confidentiality are adeptly addressed.
In Williston, VT, the simplicity and confidentiality maintained throughout the testing process allow both individuals and employers to engage with ease and assurance in the privacy of their results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Williston, VT
Competitive pricing and efficient processing times characterize hair follicle testing, offering enterprises cost-effective and swift solutions.
For businesses in Williston, VT, the seamless combination of affordability and rapid results enhances decision-making processes, offering value regardless of the company's size, while ensuring prompt, reliable outcomes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Williston, VT
Hair follicle drug testing excels in speed and accuracy, offering rapid and dependable results. The precision with which these tests identify substances provides peace of mind for all stakeholders. With advanced technologies, hair testing delivers a high level of accuracy, ensuring confidence in its results.
In Williston, VT, those seeking precision can rely on the swift and accurate assessments delivered through hair follicle tests, providing a distinct advantage over other testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Williston, VT
Implementing hair follicle testing aligns employers with workplace drug-free standards, drastically reducing legal liabilities and fostering a safe working environment.
For businesses in Williston, VT, these tests not only ensure compliance but also offer peace of mind by maintaining safe and productive workplace conditions, reinforcing both safety and policy adherence.
