Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers in its growing strands. When collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to about three months for alcohol and other substances. The collection process is straightforward, the potential for tampering is low, and the samples are easy to transport.
A collected sample of 1.5 inches with approximately 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and panels exceeding 10, a 150mg specimen is advisable. Utilize a jeweler's scale for specimen measurement. If scalp hair is not available, equivalent body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers solely to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test is composed of four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the lab's system, ensuring the sample's seal and shipment are secure, generating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry lacking from a digital chain of custody.
Screening conducts a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. While cost-effective for the majority of samples, a verified positive screen is needed for court admission. Samples that initially test positive during Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
Should Screening yield a presumptive positive, additional hair is taken from the sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair in much lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging to execute.
Confirmation of any presumptive positive is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as required. The full laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification alongside the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Beats Urine Testing
In Fort Mitchell, VA, hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine testing with its superior accuracy and reliability. Hair testing offers an in-depth detection period for substance use, significantly longer than urine tests, making it the preferred choice for employers seeking comprehensive employee evaluations.
Employers looking for a more dependable drug-testing method find hair tests advantageous. Unlike urine tests, hair analyses can detect substance use up to 90 days prior, allowing for a broader understanding of an individual's substance habits.
Extended Detection Window
Hair follicle testing in Fort Mitchell, VA, gives employers insight into an applicant's or employee's drug history over an extensive period. This testing method can reveal drug use for up to 90 days, offering a thorough overview of substance use habits and aiding in making informed employment decisions.
With its extended detection window, hair follicle testing allows businesses to gauge the long-term drug use trends of potential hires, ensuring that their workplaces remain safe and compliant with drug-free standards.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
In Fort Mitchell, VA, the hair follicle test presents a tamper-resistant method. This approach minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring that results are reliable and beyond contestation. Employers can trust these outcomes, knowing they're reviewing accurate data without worries of manipulation.
The reliable collection technique of hair follicle testing provides peace of mind by virtually eliminating potential for sample tampering, maintaining integrity in the drug-testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations
Enjoy the convenience of our numerous testing centers nationwide, ensuring stress-free access in Fort Mitchell, VA. Accredited Drug Testing's widespread locations make it simple for clients to opt for a hair follicle test with minimal hassle, enhancing the overall testing experience.
Local accessibility ensures fast and efficient drug testing processes for businesses in Fort Mitchell, complemented by our network of nationwide facilities. This convenience supports timely and easy compliance with employment testing requirements.
Simple, Confidential Process
In Fort Mitchell, VA, the hair follicle testing process is both straightforward and private. From ordering to receiving results, every step is designed to be user-friendly and secure, addressing concerns about privacy and ensuring the experience remains confidential for all involved.
Simplifying drug testing, our process guarantees confidentiality and ease, prioritizing the user's comfort with clear instructions and secure handling of data every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
Fort Mitchell, VA businesses benefit from competitive pricing structures and quick turnaround times with hair follicle testing. Our services ensure excellent value for companies of all sizes, offering peace of mind through reliable testing without straining budgets.
Swift results coupled with affordable testing rates make hair follicle testing an attractive solution for organizations aiming to uphold a drug-free workplace while managing costs efficiently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable
In Fort Mitchell, VA, hair follicle testing stands out for its precision and speed, providing fast results that you can trust. This test offers a high level of accuracy in detecting substances, ensuring that employers get the information they need quickly and reliably to maintain a drug-free workplace environment.
Many employers in Fort Mitchell are turning to hair follicle testing for its swift turnaround, reducing waiting times while maintaining reliability. This approach supports informed decision-making with confidence due to the test's robust accuracy.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Fort Mitchell, VA, provides employers with assurance in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This process reduces legal risks and promotes a safe environment, contributing to seamless operations and fostering a culture of trust.
Employers can rest easy with hair follicle screening, knowing their drug-testing protocol aligns with industry standards. This testing method enhances safety and compliance, ensuring peace of mind for business stakeholders.
