Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term usage history of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair samples offer a detection window of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. Collection is easy, the potential for adulteration is limited, and the samples are simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches comprising approximately 200 strands of hair (akin to the girth of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp can yield 100mg of hair, perfect for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest measuring the specimen on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, body hair in equivalent amounts may be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary steps in the lab processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the process of initially integrating a sample into the lab system. This entails verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concluding any supplementary data input not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a preliminary check for drug abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug presence in most samples, a positive result must undergo confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that presumptively test positive in Screening necessitate a confirmatory examination.
For cases with a presumptive positive result in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are retrieved from hair at notably lower levels than in alternative methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most complex methodologies to execute.
A positive screening is validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Boyds, WA
The superiority of hair testing lies in its ability to detect substances over an extended time frame compared to urine tests. Hair follicle tests provide a comprehensive assessment, enhancing detection accuracy. Employers and authorities find them more reliable for enforcing drug-free policies.
Extended Detection Window in Boyds, WA
Hair follicle testing offers an unparalleled detection period, identifying drug use over a span of up to 90 days. This extensive window equips employers in Boyds, WA with a thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history, beyond what short-term urine tests can provide.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Boyds, WA
The integrity of hair follicle tests is paramount as they significantly curtail the likelihood of sample tampering. This robustness ensures reliable and legitimate results, instilling trust among employers in Boyds, WA seeking unquestionable drug testing solutions.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Boyds, WA
Accredited Drug Testing delivers accessible services across its extensive network of nationwide testing sites, including local centers in Boyds, WA. This breadth of locations guarantees a quick and convenient access for customers seeking hassle-free drug testing solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Boyds, WA
Ensuring simplicity and confidentiality, our process for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward. Clients in Boyds, WA appreciate the privacy and ease with which results are obtained, addressing concerns about discretion and efficiency.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Boyds, WA
Competitive pricing and swift service turnaround underline our commitment to delivering value. Companies in Boyds, WA benefit from economical pricing structures and prompt testing outcomes, making it a favorable choice for organizations of various sizes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Boyds, WA
Hair follicle drug tests in Boyds, WA stand out for their precision and speed. With a high degree of accuracy, these tests effectively identify substance use. Quick results and rigorous accuracy make them a preferred choice among employers aiming for reliable drug screening methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Boyds, WA
Hair follicle testing supports compliance with workplace drug-free mandates, offering peace of mind. This method helps Boyds, WA employers mitigate legal risks, fortify workplace safety, and uphold zero-tolerance policies efficiently with reliable testing outcomes.
