Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a strong method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a lasting record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. Obtained near the scalp, hair samples can offer up to a three-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. The sample is easy to gather, somewhat tamper-resistant, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment from approximately 200 hairs (equivalent to a #2 pencil's thickness) closest to the scalp yields around 100mg, which is ideal for both initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for specimen measurement is suggested. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. Head hair specifically denotes scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other types (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary stages in the lab's processing of a drug test, namely Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the sample's initial entry into a lab system, ensuring proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing extra data entry when not available from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening acts as a preliminary check for drug abuse, offering a cost-effective method to rule out drug use on most samples; however, a positive screening requires confirmation to be valid in court. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
For samples that screen positive preliminarily, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. This involves extracting drugs from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug analysis one of the most challenging methods to execute.
To confirm any positive result from the screening, techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are used. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the hair strands and not the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Tests Excel over Urine Tests in Tasley, VA
The hair follicle testing method offers several advantages over traditional urine testing. It is known for its superior detection range and accuracy, providing a more reliable assessment of drug use. With a longer detection window, hair tests capture a broader picture, making it an essential tool for stringent drug policies.
Extended Detection Window in Tasley, VA
Hair follicle testing offers a significant advantage with its prolonged detection period, up to 90 days. This capability provides employers with a comprehensive insight into an individual's substance usage history, aiding in better informed hiring and monitoring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Tasley, VA
Hair follicle drug tests are known for being highly tamper-resistant. The method greatly minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring that results are both trustworthy and conclusive, offering peace of mind to those who rely on the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Testing Locations in Tasley, VA
We offer a network of testing centers nationwide, complemented by local options in Tasley, VA, to ensure easy and convenient access. This network provides a seamless experience for everyone needing quick, hassle-free testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Tasley, VA
The hair testing process is designed to be simple and private. From ordering to taking the test and receiving results, each step maintains confidentiality, making it a comfortable experience for all involved, ensuring privacy and ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Tasley, VA
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times make hair follicle testing an accessible option for businesses of various sizes. The combination of cost-effectiveness and speed provides excellent value, offering peace of mind with rapid, reliable results.
Hair follicle drug tests in Tasley, VA are renowned for their speed and accuracy. The precision in detecting substance use is unmatched, making them an ideal choice for anyone needing reliable results. With a streamlined process, test results are delivered swiftly, allowing for immediate actions based on accurate data.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Tasley, VA
The adoption of hair follicle testing ensures companies uphold their drug-free workplace policies. This testing method mitigates legal risks and enhances overall safety, providing employers with the assurance of being compliant with necessary regulations.
