Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is regarded as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It captures a prolonged history of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers in the hair strand’s fibers. When hair is obtained near the scalp, it can offer a detection period of up to about 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transportation.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of roughly 200 hairs (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for analysis and verification. For tests such as EtG, additional panels, or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of hair is suggested. It's advised to weigh the hair on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair may be taken. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the primary processing of a sample within a lab’s system. This process includes confirming that the sample was secured and transported correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial fast examination for substances of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug use for most samples, a positive screen must be validated for court acceptance. Samples that are tentatively positive in Screening require further verification.
Should a sample yield a tentative positive result in the Screening, additional hair is taken from the primary sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), contributing to the complexity of hair drug testing.
Validation of any positive screening outcome is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All tentative positive samples are cleansed prior to validation as required. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and governed by ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often termed as "hair follicle tests", the actual test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
In Badger, WA, hair follicle tests provide numerous advantages over traditional urine tests. They offer superior detection accuracy and reliability, making them a preferred choice for a comprehensive assessment of substance use.
Extended Detection Window
One of the key benefits of hair follicle testing in Badger, WA, is its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged period, up to 90 days. This gives employers an extensive view of an individual's substance history, ensuring informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
Hair follicle tests in Badger, WA, significantly minimize the chances of sample adulteration. This inherent resistance to tampering ensures that results are both reliable and unquestionable, crucial for maintaining integrity.
Convenient Testing Locations
In Badger, WA, the availability of our nationwide testing centers ensures quick, easy access to drug testing services. This convenience streamlines the process, making it hassle-free for all involved.
Simple, Confidential Process
In Badger, WA, our hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to collecting samples and receiving results, every step ensures privacy and ease, addressing any concerns effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
Our hair follicle testing in Badger, WA offers competitive pricing and quick results. This provides exceptional value and peace of mind, accommodating companies of various sizes with cost-effective solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Badger, WA, hair follicle drug tests are known for their swiftness and precision. These tests are renowned for their high accuracy in detecting substance use, making them a preferred choice for those seeking reliable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Badger, WA, ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This reduces legal risks and boosts workplace safety, providing peace of mind for employers committed to a secure environment.
