Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is becoming recognized as a robust method for detecting drugs and alcohol. Hair keeps a detailed record of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers in the hair strand fibers. When collected nearest the scalp, it can offer a detection period of up to 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair samples are easy to collect, difficult to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample of approximately 200 strands (similar to a #2 pencil's thickness) close to the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is suggested. It is advisable to weigh the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. Reference to head hair means scalp hair specifically, whereas body hair includes all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test encompasses four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample into the laboratory’s system. This process involves ensuring the sample was sealed and sent right, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry beyond what the electronic chain of custody system provides.
Screening is a quick preliminary check for the presence of drugs. While it is a cost-effective outsourcing to rule out substance use in most samples, any positive results need confirmation to be valid in court. Samples that are preliminarily positive require a subsequent confirmation.
In cases where a sample tests positive in Screening, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. This phase entails extracting drugs from hair at far lower concentrations than in other methods, such as urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies to execute.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The laboratory procedure, from Accessioning through Confirmation, undergoes both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation review and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle below the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Keokee, VA
Comparing hair testing to traditional urine tests reveals the superior detection accuracy of hair samples. They offer unparalleled reliability, ensuring comprehensive insights into substance use.
Employers in Keokee, VA, find hair follicle testing advantageous due to its broad detection window, offering a significant edge over urine testing. This method safeguards zero-tolerance policies effectively.
Extended Detection Window in Keokee, VA
Hair follicle testing offers a substantial advantage with its detection ability extending up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history.
In Keokee, VA, the extended detection period of hair tests provides a detailed view of substance use patterns, supporting informed decisions in the workplace and beyond.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Keokee, VA
The integrity of hair follicle tests lies in their resistance to sample tampering. This method delivers confident and unquestionable results, safe from adulteration.
Keokee, VA, businesses benefit significantly from the tamper-resistant nature of hair testing. Its reliability makes it a preferred choice for maintaining rigorous testing standards.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Keokee, VA
Our expansive network of testing centers ensures quick, easy access for clients. Located conveniently, these centers make testing a hassle-free experience.
In Keokee, VA, the convenience of nearby testing locations means timely and straightforward testing services, aligning with the needs of busy professionals and organizations alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Keokee, VA
The process for hair follicle testing is designed to be straightforward and discreet, respecting client privacy and ease of use.
By offering a confidential service in Keokee, VA, we ensure clients feel secure and understood, from ordering tests to receiving results, addressing any privacy concerns efficiently.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Keokee, VA
Competitive pricing and quick result times characterize our services, offering excellent value to organizations of all sizes.
Businesses in Keokee, VA, appreciate our affordable hair testing solutions, with swift turnaround ensuring minimal disruption while maintaining budget-friendly options.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Keokee, VA
The precision and speed of hair follicle tests are unmatched. They ensure high accuracy in identifying substance use, providing swift results crucial for informed decision-making.
In Keokee, the demand for accurate drug testing is met with the reliability and efficiency of hair follicle tests. These tests are essential for precise detection, giving peace of mind to all parties involved.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Keokee, VA
Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug-free policies, decreasing legal risks while enhancing safety.
Employers in Keokee enjoy peace of mind with hair testing, as it verifies compliance and supports a secure, drug-free working environment, aligning with company values and regulations.
