Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term historical usage of substances by embedding biomarkers within the growing strand. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer up to a three-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, difficult to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp weighs 100mg, which is the ideal amount for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is preferred. We suggest measuring the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is lacking, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When we mention head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing into the lab’s system. This step includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not given by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary swift assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening helps cost-effectively exclude drug use in the majority of samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Presumptive positive screens necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
If Screening results in a presumptive positive, additional hair is taken from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drug extraction from hair happens at a significantly lower concentration than in methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair testing the most challenging to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screen result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all presumptive positive samples are washed as required. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the tests assess the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Prevails Over Urine Tests in Douglas, WA
The benefits of hair testing surpass those of traditional urine tests significantly. With a superior detection accuracy, hair follicle tests can unveil substance use spanning much longer periods, offering unparalleled reliability that businesses in Douglas, WA, can count on.
The Extended Detection Window in Douglas, WA
Hair follicle testing provides a wide detection timeframe, revealing drug usage for up to 90 days. This test grants employers a thorough insight into an employee or candidate's past substance activities, offering a detailed perspective on their history in the Douglas, WA, area.
Secure and Tamper-Resistant Testing in Douglas, WA
Hair follicle tests significantly curb the chances of sample tampering, delivering results that are trustworthy beyond measure. This method's integrity ensures that findings in Douglas, WA, remain consistent and reliable, unable to be questioned.
Convenient Testing Locations Across Douglas, WA
With a multitude of testing facilities nationwide, Accredited Drug Testing provides easy and accessible hair follicle testing services. Within Douglas, WA, this widespread availability ensures that tests are convenient and quick, allowing straightforward access for everyone.
A Simple, Confidential Process in Douglas, WA
Order, test, and receive results with ease. Douglas, WA residents, and businesses benefit from a simple, confidential process that values privacy, addressing every concern related to security and effortless use of hair follicle testing services.
Affordable Rates and Swift Turnaround in Douglas, WA
With competitive pricing and rapid result times, Douglas, WA businesses receive excellent value in drug testing. Fast service alongside affordable costs provides peace of mind and accommodates organizations of all sizes effectively.
Fast and Accurate Results in Douglas, WA
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled accuracy and speed. This method of testing provides robust results, ensuring precise detection of substance use. In Douglas, WA, individuals and businesses rely on the dependable outcomes of hair testing, knowing that results are both fast and reliable.
Ensuring Compliance and Peace for Employers in Douglas, WA
Hair follicle testing aids in compliance with drug-free workplace policies, contributing to both legal safety and enhancing the work environment's overall safety. Douglas, WA, employers experience reduced legal concerns and greater peace of mind.