Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures an extensive timeline of substance use by storing biomarkers within its fibers as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair offers nearly a three-month period for detecting alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect, relatively resistant to tampering, and straightforward to transport.
A hair sample length of 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil), yields 100mg, which is the optimal quantity for screenings and confirmations. For tests that include EtG, add-ons, or involve more than 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. We suggest weighing the hair on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, the same quantity of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' refers exclusively to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for a drug test result includes Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation as its key stages.
In Accessioning, the sample is initially processed into the lab's system. The process involves ensuring the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing additional data entry if not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a preliminary examination for substances of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out substance use in most samples, any positive results need verification for court admissibility. Samples that are tentatively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
When a sample is tentatively positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the original sample and primed for Extraction. In this phase, substances are isolated from the hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies.
Confirmation for any positive result goes through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, presumptively positive samples undergo washing as necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, gets examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation as well as the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test analyzes the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Tysons, VA, hair follicle testing offers distinct advantages over traditional urine tests. Benefits include:
The hair follicle testing process in Tysons, VA is notably beneficial because it offers an extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days, it provides employers with a broad perspective on an individual’s past substance activities. This prolonged observation period is advantageous for companies wanting a clear and extensive assessment of someone’s potential history with substances, aiding in responsible hiring and employment practices.
In Tysons, VA, the hair follicle drug testing process is revered for its tamper-resistant nature. The integrity of these tests significantly curbs the chances of sample adulteration. Unlike other testing methods that might be susceptible to manipulation, hair testing offers reliable and unquestionable results, ensuring the safety and accuracy of the data obtained. This robust reliability makes it an invaluable tool for employers and judicial systems alike.
Accredited Drug Testing provides widespread access to testing centers, including those in Tysons, VA. This convenience ensures clients can easily locate a testing center near them, whether locally or nationally. The hassle-free, quick service offered across diverse locations makes it simple for individuals and employers alike to arrange necessary tests in a timely and efficient manner.
Through a seamless and confidential process, Accredited Drug Testing in Tysons, VA addresses common concerns of privacy and usability. From ordering to testing and receiving results, the procedure is straightforward, safeguarding personal information throughout. This user-friendly approach ensures participants feel comfortable and at ease, knowing their data is securely handled.
Offering competitive pricing and swift result times, Accredited Drug Testing in Tysons, VA presents excellent value. Their efficient tests come at accessible prices, accommodating companies of any size. Quick turnaround times enhance this value, allowing businesses to receive essential information fast, facilitating smarter and more timely decision-making.
Hair follicle drug tests in Tysons, VA stand out for their speed and precision. The method's efficiency in detecting substances ensures that results are both fast and reliable. The high accuracy it offers in identifying drug use makes it a preferred choice for many seeking valid testing outcomes. These tests pride themselves on providing rapid answers without sacrificing accuracy, delivering substantial benefits for those reliant on trustworthy testing results.
Employers in Tysons, VA seeking compliance with drug-free workplace policies find hair follicle testing a beneficial tool. With its accurate and comprehensive detection capabilities, it not only ensures adherence to stated policies but also minimizes legal exposures associated with workplace drug use. The assurance provided by such reliable testing enhances overall workplace safety, delivering peace of mind to business owners and HR professionals.
