Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as a potent method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extensive record of drugs and alcohol by capturing biomarkers within the growing hair fibers. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use within approximately a 3-month timeframe. Hair samples are straightforward to gather, tough to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, with roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) and closest to the scalp, provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. Utilize a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair can be collected. When discussing head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Overview of the Process
The laboratory process for a drug test result comprises four main phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the lab’s system. This process checks that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and includes any supplementary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid test for illicit substances. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive Screening result requires confirmation for it to be legally valid. Any presumptive positive samples during Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
When a sample is presumptively positive during the Screening phase, more hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing one of the most challenging methodologies to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Hair follicle testing offers several advantages over urine tests, particularly in Hiwassee, VA. Its superior detection accuracy makes it more reliable than traditional methods.
The extended detection period of hair tests, up to 90 days, eclipses that of urine tests, providing a more comprehensive substance use history.
With a zero-tolerance policy, employers find hair tests indispensable, reducing slip through the cracks.
In areas like Hiwassee, VA, hair follicle testing proves invaluable with its extended detection window of up to 90 days.
This extensive timeframe grants employers deep insights into an individual's substance history, enhancing decision-making processes.
Employers benefit from always having a complete perspective regarding potential drug use.
Hair follicle tests in Hiwassee, VA, are a tamper-resistant method, significantly lowering the chances of sample manipulation.
This method delivers unquestionable results, maintaining integrity and reliability throughout the testing process.
The risk of adulteration is diminished, ensuring true and dependable outcomes.
The convenience of nationwide testing centers, including those in Hiwassee, VA, ensures easy and hassle-free access to drug testing services.
These centers offer quick and easy solutions for drug testing, tailored to meet local and national demands.
Accessibility to testing locations prioritizes user convenience, making the process efficient.
In Hiwassee, VA, our testing process is both simple and confidential, addressing privacy and usability concerns.
The straightforward order, collection, and result notification processes enhance user peace of mind.
Clients find reassurance in our commitment to confidentiality, minimizing stress associated with testing.
Hiwassee, VA, benefits from our competitive pricing in hair follicle testing, paired with fast turnaround times.
Speed of results and affordability cater to companies of various sizes, ensuring excellent value and satisfaction.
Our pricing structure supports organizational budget needs, offering substantial peace of mind.
In Hiwassee, VA, hair follicle drug tests provide fast and accurate results. This method stands out for its high precision in identifying substance use.
The speed of obtaining results through hair tests is noteworthy. They deliver reliable outcomes, minimizing wait times and uncertainties.
Employers benefit from the efficiency of these tests, ensuring informed decisions in a timely manner.
For employers in Hiwassee, VA, hair follicle testing assures compliance with drug-free workplace initiatives, fostering safer work environments.
With reduced legal risks, businesses experience peace of mind and enhanced operational safety.
Employers can confidently maintain workplace standards, ensuring everyone’s safety.
