What it is, How it works

In recent times, hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When harvested near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use over a period of up to three months. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of roughly 200 strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, an optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For tests such as EtG, additional panels, and/or beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. Utilizing a jewelerâ€™s scale to weigh the specimen is advisable. If scalp hair is not an option, a similar amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

There are four principal steps in laboratory processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning involves the primary handling of a sample as it enters the laboratory's system. This step includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, allocating a randomized LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening conducts an initial rapid check for substance abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to dismiss drug use in the majority of cases, a positive result must undergo Confirmation to be legally valid. Samples identified as presumptively positive during Screening necessitate secondary verification.

Should a sample yield a presumptively positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this process, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluids), highlighting why hair drug screening is the most complex methodology to execute.

Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive are cleansed before confirmation if required. The laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 guidelines.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Prolonged detection period: Hair drug tests detect drug consumption for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests, which have shorter detection periods.
High resistance to tampering: The likelihood of cheating a hair drug test is very low, enhancing result accuracy.
Patterns of usage: It uncovers substance use trends over time, instead of just recent consumption.

Limitations:

Does not detect immediate use: Drugs become detectable in hair roughly 5-7 days post-consumption.
Higher cost: Hair drug tests typically incur greater expenses than other testing methods.
Result variability: Hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite levels in the hair.

Note: While commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests," the process examines the hair strand itself, excluding any hair follicles beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Testing Excel in Ahtanum, WA
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests due to superior accuracy and reliability. While urine samples provide a snapshot, hair tests reflect prolonged usage patterns, offering a clearer picture. In Ahtanum, WA, this provides a decisive edge in substance detection.

Long-Term Accuracy and Precision
Employers in Ahtanum favor hair testing due to its extended detection capabilities. Compared to urine tests, hair analysis offers a comprehensive view of historic substance use, invaluable for assessing an individual’s long-term behavior.

Extended Detection Window

Comprehensive Detection Window
In Ahtanum, WA, hair follicle testing reveals drug use over an extended timeframe, up to 90 days. Employers gain a thorough overview of substance history, crucial for evaluating long-term behavior. This prolonged detection is unmatched by other testing methods.

Extended Substance History
Hair tests provide a broad lens into past substance use in Ahtanum, enabling employers to assess patterns over months. This detailed historical insight is invaluable for informed decision-making regarding potential employees or existing team members.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Enhanced Tamper-Resistance
In Ahtanum, WA, hair follicle testing reduces sample tampering risks, ensuring result integrity. Unlike other methods, hair tests are less susceptible to adulteration, providing reliable, clear results crucial for trust in testing outcomes.

Dependable Test Results
Employers value hair tests for their robust tamper-proof nature. This method significantly decreases the likelihood of altered samples, delivering dependable results. Its credibility makes it an optimal choice for secure, genuine drug testing outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Nationwide and Local Convenience
Accredited Drug Testing ensures easy testing access via nationwide centers, including Ahtanum, WA. Our extensive network allows swift, hassle-free service, accommodating rapid testing needs. This extensive reach exemplifies our commitment to convenient access.

Close and Accessible Testing Locations
Our nationwide centers, including those near Ahtanum, make testing simple for individuals and businesses. This ease of access reflects our dedication to customer satisfaction, ensuring prompt service without unnecessary hassle.

Simple, Confidential Process

Streamlined, Confidential Processes
In Ahtanum, WA, our hair testing process is both simple and secure. We prioritize your privacy, ensuring discreet sample collection and clear communication throughout. This straightforward approach makes testing easy, while safeguarding your private information.

Ease and Anonymity
Accredited Drug Testing values confidentiality in Ahtanum. Our process ensures easy ordering, testing, and result receipt, addressing privacy concerns while maintaining simplicity. This respect for user privacy fosters trust and satisfaction.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Competitive Pricing and Quick Turnaround
Offering affordable rates and fast results, Accredited Drug Testing in Ahtanum, WA delivers exceptional value to businesses of all sizes. Our competitive pricing ensures accessibility without sacrificing quality or speed, enhancing client satisfaction.

Cost-Effective, Efficient Testing
Providing rapid, reliable results at budget-friendly prices, our services in Ahtanum offer significant value. Competitive pricing doesn't compromise speed or accuracy, allowing businesses access to effective drug testing solutions.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast and Accurate Testing
In Ahtanum, WA, hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled speed and precision. With advanced techniques, results indicate substance use with high accuracy. This rapid assessment helps in timely decision-making, essential for maintaining safe environments.

Reliable Detection
Hair follicle tests stand out for their dependability. They effectively identify drug presence, making them a preferred choice for reliable outcomes. Their advanced detection capabilities ensure accurate substance use evaluation.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Ensuring Compliance and Safety
In Ahtanum, WA, hair follicle testing supports compliance with workplace policies. By reducing legal risks, it enhances workplace safety. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their environment supports drug-free practices efficiently and reliably.

Legal Assurance and Security
Utilizing hair testing ensures adherence to strict workplace policies in Ahtanum. This not only minimizes legal liabilities but also promotes a safe, productive working environment, providing invaluable peace of mind to companies adhering to zero-tolerance policies.