Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Seen as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption, hair testing offers a long-term history by capturing biomarkers in the strands of hair as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal up to an estimated 3-month detection span for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect, inherently resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion containing approximately 200 strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) taken from the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimum quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't present, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four major steps in the lab processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step, where a sample is entered into a laboratory’s system. This process confirms that the sample was appropriately sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary test for drugs of abuse. Although cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be valid in legal contexts. Any samples that screen positively presumptively need additional confirmation.
In cases where a sample tests positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), which explains the complexity of hair drug screening.
A subsequent Confirmation of any positive screen finding is executed with GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples deemed presumptively positive are cleaned prior to confirmation as needed. The complete lab procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and follows ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though often called "hair follicle tests," the analysis is performed on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hurley, VA
Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. This method provides a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance history.
Unlike urine tests, hair follicle screening can reveal drug use over a longer period, making it nearly impossible for users to bypass, as it captures evidence of use weeks or months after consumption.
Extended Detection Window in Hurley, VA
One of the standout benefits of hair follicle testing is its long detection window. It tracks drug or alcohol use for up to 90 days.
This extensive detection period allows employers in Hurley to gain an insightful look into an applicant's or employee's drug-use patterns, ensuring they maintain a substance-free environment within the workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hurley, VA
Hair follicle tests are recognized for their resistance to tampering. Compared to urine tests, they significantly reduce the chances of sample adulteration.
Those in Hurley can trust the integrity of hair follicle tests, as they provide unquestionable results that greatly minimize the risk of deception, ensuring accuracy in detecting substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hurley, VA
Accredited Drug Testing offers numerous testing centers nationwide, making it easy for individuals and businesses in Hurley to access services close to home.
With multiple local locations available, individuals can expect minimal travel and hassle-free visits, ensuring the testing process is seamless and efficient, no matter where they are situated.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hurley, VA
The process for hair follicle drug tests in Hurley is simple and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, every step is straightforward.
Privacy is prioritized, ensuring individuals have a secure experience. Clients can trust the efficiency and discretion of this process, keeping personal information protected throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hurley, VA
With competitive pricing options, hair follicle testing offers great value for businesses in Hurley.
Fast turnaround times ensure businesses receive results quickly, allowing them to make informed decisions without delay. The cost-effectiveness combined with reliability makes this an appealing choice for companies of all sizes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hurley, VA
Hair follicle drug tests in Hurley, VA, are known for their fast processing and high accuracy. With precision in detecting a wide range of substances, these tests provide clear results quickly.
Employers in Hurley value the reliability of hair follicle testing. The method ensures minimal error, with the ability to detect even trace amounts of drugs, ensuring a substance-free workplace environment.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hurley, VA
Adopting hair follicle testing helps employers stay compliant with strict drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal risks.
Employers in Hurley benefit from the peace of mind that comes with using this robust testing method, which supports a safe, drug-free working environment and aligns with industry standards.
