Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an influential method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged trace of alcohol and other drugs by encapsulating biomarkers within its growing strands. When cut close to the scalp, hair can offer a detection window of up to roughly 3 months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and conveniently transportable.
A 1.5-inch piece of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, perfect for accurate screening and validation. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale is recommended for measuring the sample. If scalp hair is not accessible, a comparable portion of body hair may be used. Head hair strictly refers to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four major stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This step ensures the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any further data entry needed that isn’t covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment for substance misuse. Although cost-effective for negating drug use in most cases, a positive screen must be confirmed for validity in legal situations. Any initially positive outcomes in Screening require further confirmation.
For presumptively positive specimens in the Screening phase, more hair from the original batch is taken for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than via other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug testing the most complex method.
Confirming any positive Screening result utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives undergo cleaning prior to confirmation if necessary. The full lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation complies with CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", this analysis examines the hair shaft rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Independent Hill, VA
Hair follicle testing offers distinct advantages over traditional urine tests, especially in terms of detection accuracy and reliability. While urine tests can be limited to more recent substance use, hair testing offers an extensive detection window, reaching up to 90 days. This comprehensive insight makes it invaluable for employers needing assurance of a drug-free workplace.
Extended Detection Window in Independent Hill, VA
The capability of hair follicle testing to detect drug usage over an extended period (up to 90 days) is crucial for employers. This extended detection window provides together with more comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use history, making it a reliable tool for assessing potential or current employees within Independent Hill.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Independent Hill, VA
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its resilience against tampering. Unlike other methods that can be more easily manipulated, hair testing substantially reduces the risk of adulteration. This ensures that the results obtained are both reliable and incontestable, offering peace of mind to employers and officials in Independent Hill.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Independent Hill, VA
With Accredited Drug Testing, convenience is key. Our vast network of testing centers ensures that Independent Hill residents can easily access testing services across the nation. This guarantees quick and hassle-free testing processes no matter where you are.
Simple, Confidential Process in Independent Hill, VA
The procedure for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results is designed to be straightforward and confidential. This ensures that individuals can engage in the testing process with confidence, knowing that their privacy concerns are addressed every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Independent Hill, VA
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing structures coupled with swift turnaround times, ensuring that businesses of all sizes receive the best value for their investment. With clear cost benefits and rapid processing, companies in Independent Hill can trust in obtaining prompt and cost-effective results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Independent Hill, VA
The precision and expedited nature of hair follicle drug testing make it a preferred choice for many. Not only is it highly accurate in detecting various substances used over an extended timeframe, but it also provides rapid results. Local facilities in Independent Hill ensure that you can count on getting the information you need quickly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Independent Hill, VA
Hair follicle testing supports drug-free policies, aiding employers in maintaining compliance with such regulations. By providing a reliable means of drug testing, it helps reduce legal risks and enhances workplace safety, giving employers the confidence and peace of mind they seek in Independent Hill.
