Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as a robust mechanism for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a timeline of substances by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand fibers. Sampling close to the scalp, hair can reveal substance use reaching back approximately three months. It is effortless to gather, relatively resistant to contamination, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately comparable to a #2 pencil's width) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, optimal for both screening and verification. For EtG, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. The specimen should be measured using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, a similar quantity of body hair can be obtained. In discussions of head hair, we mean specifically scalp hair. In terms of body hair, this encompasses all other varieties (facial, armpit, etc.).
Process Overview
The key phases in lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails initial sample processing within a laboratory's framework. Tasks involve validating proper sample sealing and transportation, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening represents a preliminary drug occurrence assessment. It serves as an economical approach to eliminate drug presence for most samples, yet positive results require subsequent confirmation to be legally valid. Samples tentatively positive during Screening necessitate secondary validation.
For samples testing positive at the Screening stage, additional hair from the initial sample is utilized for Extraction. This phase involves removing drugs from hair at substantially lower concentrations compared with alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug testing is notably challenging to conduct.
To verify any positive screening outcome, procedures via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS are employed. Presumptive positive samples undergo a pre-confirmation wash as deemed necessary. The total lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to reviews under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though often called "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Eastmont, WA
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests by providing a broader detection window and greater accuracy. Where urine tests detect recent drug use, hair tests provide insight over months, making them a compelling choice for employers committed to maintaining drug-free workplaces. This method offers unparalleled reliability for long-term detection.
Extended Detection Window in Eastmont, WA
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window, up to 90 days, providing a thorough evaluation of an individual's drug use history. This method gives employers a valuable tool to assess long-term substance use patterns, beneficial for informed employment decisions and compliance with drug-free policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Eastmont, WA
The integrity of hair follicle testing is unmatched, significantly minimizing the risk of sample tampering. This ensures that results are reliable and trustworthy, providing confidence to employers and legal entities requiring stringent testing standards.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Eastmont, WA
Our extensive network of testing centers offers convenient access to hair follicle drug testing services, both locally in Eastmont and nationwide. Quick, easy access across various locations ensures a hassle-free experience for all testing requirements.
Simple, Confidential Process in Eastmont, WA
Our hair follicle testing process prioritizes simplicity and confidentiality, ensuring user privacy from order to result. With a streamlined procedure, clients can easily navigate testing requirements, receiving confidential outcomes that safeguard privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Eastmont, WA
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing on hair follicle tests, alongside rapid turnaround times. These features ensure excellent value and peace of mind for organizations of any size, upholding our commitment to quality and affordability.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Eastmont, WA
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision, speed, and reliability. These tests provide accurate insights into substance use, making them ideal for workplaces prioritizing safety and accountability. With a streamlined process, results are delivered promptly, allowing for informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Eastmont, WA
Employing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug policies, reducing legal exposure and promoting employee safety. This method supports a commitment to a secure and compliant work environment, minimizing risks associated with substance abuse.
