Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is widely recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Providing an extensive historical record, hair captures biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. Collecting samples near the scalp allows for a detection period of approximately three months for alcohol and drugs. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
Gathering a 1.5-inch sample comprising around 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a standard #2 pencil) closest to the scalp results in 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is recommended for weighing the specimen. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar quantity of body hair is acceptable. When discussing head hair, we solely refer to scalp hair, while body hair pertains to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the lab’s system. This stage includes verifying the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid test for substances of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient strategy to negate drug use in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation for legal proceedings. Any samples presumptively positive in Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
Should a sample test positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations than in alternate methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), contributing to the complexity of hair drug testing.
Confirmation of any positive Screening results is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. Throughout the laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation, all processes are evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly dubbed "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines hair strands rather than the follicles beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Halifax, VA.
Hair drug tests outperform traditional urine tests due to their superior detection accuracy and reliability. With a much wider detection window, hair tests provide a comprehensive view, elevating them above traditional methods.
Extended Detection Window in Halifax, VA.
Hair follicle testing is well-regarded for its long detection period, able to identify drug use for up to 90 days. This extensive window offers employers a clearer picture of an individual's substance use over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Halifax, VA.
Hair follicle tests significantly mitigate sample adulteration risks, ensuring dependable and unquestionable results. This level of reliability offers peace of mind to those relying on their accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Halifax, VA.
With our extensive network of testing centers nationwide, we offer swift, easy access to our testing services without hassle, including local provisions for Halifax residents.
Simple, Confidential Process in Halifax, VA.
Our process for ordering, conducting, and obtaining results is straightforward and confidential, addressing privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use for all clients.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Halifax, VA.
Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times deliver great value, assuring companies of all sizes effective results without breaking the bank.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Halifax, VA.
Hair follicle drug tests offer exceptional precision and speed, making them a top choice for detecting substance use. These tests are highly accurate and can provide results swiftly, ensuring timely decision-making for various needs in Halifax.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Halifax, VA.
Utilizing hair follicle testing enables employers to comply with workplace drug-free mandates, lowering legal risks and improving safety. It provides a clear, verifiable record of compliance.
