Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a robust method for spotting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands preserve a long-term record of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. Collection of hair from near the scalp offers up to about a 3-month detection window for alcohol and drug use. Hair is straightforward to collect, relatively challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of about 200 hair strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is considered the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation procedures. For EtG, extra tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is recommended. It is advisable to weigh the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount of body hair may be collected. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial hair, axillary hair, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result follows four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the laboratory’s system. This process includes verifying the sample's proper sealing and shipment, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a rapid preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient means of excluding drug usage for the majority of samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be legally admissible. Samples that show a presumptive positive result in Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample indicate a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies to execute.
The Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing when necessary prior to confirmation. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand itself, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in West Falls Church, VA
In comparison to urine tests, hair follicle testing offers distinct advantages.
Employers and authorities often favor hair tests over urine tests due to their superior capability in identifying substances used over time. Hair testing's efficacy and reliability make it the preferred choice for ensuring a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in West Falls Church, VA
Hair follicle tests have the ability to detect drug use spanning up to 90 days.
The advantage of a longer detection window means that these tests reveal more than just recent habits; they provide detailed information helpful in assessing long-term compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in West Falls Church, VA
Hair follicle testing significantly curtails the chances of tampering with results.
The trustworthy nature of hair testing stems from its resistance to adulteration. This reliability fosters greater assurance in the test outcomes, vital for maintaining confidence in drug testing protocols.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in West Falls Church, VA
The easy accessibility of our testing centers ensures a hassle-free experience.
Leveraging our extensive network means that whether you're near or far, Accredited Drug Testing offers a location nearby. Seamless service integration provides unmatched convenience for all testing needs.
Simple, Confidential Process in West Falls Church, VA
Our hair follicle testing process prioritizes simplicity and confidentiality.
Concerns about privacy and procedure are minimized through our discreet approach. With user-centric systems, our process is designed for ease, maintaining confidentiality as a cornerstone of our service delivery.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in West Falls Church, VA
Competitive pricing alongside swift turnaround times ensure great value.
For organizations large and small, our hair testing services provide both economic and practical advantages. Delivering results in a timely manner, we stand as a cost-effective pillar in maintaining workplace safety.
The precision and speed of hair follicle drug assessments in West Falls Church, VA, are unparalleled. Known for their accuracy, these tests promptly identify substance traces, making them ideal for timely evaluations.
In today’s fast-paced world, the need for rapid and accurate drug testing is paramount. Hair follicle tests offer a solution that combines swiftness with dependability. Whether for pre-employment screening or ongoing compliance, the results provide comprehensive insights with minimal delay.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in West Falls Church, VA
Hair follicle tests support employers in adhering to drug-free workplace standards, minimizing legal issues.
For companies eager to maintain a safe environment, opting for hair drug tests means fewer worries about unnoticed drug use. They align seamlessly with corporate policies, safeguarding both employees and employers from unintended risks.
