Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is widely recognized as an effective method for uncovering the use of drugs and alcohol. This method offers a comprehensive account of alcohol and drug intake by encapsulating biomarkers within the hair's growing strand. When hair is sampled near the scalp, it can reveal traces of alcohol and drugs for a period extending up to about three months. The sampling process is straightforward, the chance of tampering is low, and samples can be transported with ease.
An ideal 1.5-inch segment, equivalent to about 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) collected closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both initial screening and eventual confirmation. For tests including EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is preferable. It's advisable to use a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement. In instances where scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair may be utilized. ‘Head hair’ pertains exclusively to scalp hair. ‘Body hair’ encompasses all other types of hair (like facial or axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four core steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning handles the initial integration of a sample into the lab’s system. This step involves checking the sample for proper sealing and shipment, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment for drug presence. Though Screening provides an economical means to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive result must be validated for legal acceptability. Samples testing presumptively positive during Screening require additional confirmation.
Should the Screening indicate a presumptive positive outcome, more hair is drawn from the original sample and readied for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at notably lower concentrations than those in other testing methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex to execute.
To confirm any positive result from Screening, GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques are employed. All samples deemed presumptively positive undergo a washing stage prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand itself, not the follicles beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hollins, VA
Comparing the advantages of hair testing to traditional urine testing demonstrates superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair follicle tests provide a longer detection time frame and are much harder to manipulate, making them an excellent choice for employers seeking dependable outcomes.
Extended Detection Window in Hollins, VA
Hair follicle testing in Hollins, VA, allows for the detection of drug use over an extended period, sometimes up to 90 days. This long detection window provides employers with a detailed view of an individual's substance usage history, which is crucial during hiring processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hollins, VA
Hair follicle drug tests substantially minimize the risk of tampering, providing results that are firmly reliable and free from adulteration. This leads to unquestionable outcomes that benefit all parties involved, particularly in a professional setting.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hollins, VA
Our expansive network of testing centers, including local locations in Hollins, VA, guarantees easy and accessible testing services. This nationwide availability facilitates seamless and hassle-free testing experiences for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hollins, VA
The process of ordering and taking hair follicle tests in Hollins, VA, is straightforward and confidential. This approach addresses privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use, making it ideal for both organizations and individuals.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hollins, VA
Our hair follicle drug testing services in Hollins, VA, offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround times. This provides exceptional value and confidence for businesses of all sizes, enabling them to make informed decisions quickly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hollins, VA
When it comes to precision and speed in drug detection, the hair follicle tests administered in Hollins, VA, offer unmatched accuracy. These assessments are known for their ability to accurately determine substance use, providing results that employers and individuals can trust.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hollins, VA
Implementing hair follicle testing ensures that employers in Hollins, VA, maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This reduces legal risks associated with drug use and contributes to a safer workplace environment.
