Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a vital method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures a long-term trace of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When collected near the scalp, it offers a detection period of up to roughly three months for substances. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches containing approximately 200 hair strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp results in 100mg of hair, which is ideal for evaluation and validation. For EtG, supplementary, and/or over 10-panel tests, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weight accuracy. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equal quantity of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of a drug test comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial incorporation of a sample into a lab's system. This step ensures the sample was appropriately sealed and transported, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any remaining data entry that an electronic chain of custody doesn't cover.
Screening performs an initial rapid assessment for drug misuse. Although Screening effectively eliminates drug usage for the bulk of samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation for legal validity. Presumptive positives in Screening require further verification.
In the event of a presumptive positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the originating sample for Extraction preparation. This phase sees drugs removed from hair at significantly lower concentrations than alternate methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening findings is conducted through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed as needed before confirmation. The entire laboratory procedure—spanning Accessioning to Confirmation—is vetted under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Jackson Prairie, WA
Hair testing stands superior to traditional urine screenings, boasting better detection accuracy. The expansive window for identifying drugs makes it more reliable, offering certainty for employers. The sensitivity of hair tests ensures fewer false negatives, reinforcing their place as a top choice.
Extended Detection Window in Jackson Prairie, WA
A hallmark of hair follicle testing is its long reach, detecting drug use for up to 90 days. This gives a fuller picture of an individual's substance history, offering insights unmatched by urine tests. For employers, this means a deeper understanding of an applicant or existing employee's habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Jackson Prairie, WA
Hair follicle tests are notably difficult to adulterate, presenting a challenge to those seeking to alter results. This feature ensures reliability and confidence in outcomes, protecting the integrity of the testing process. Employers can rest easy knowing that the results are both accurate and trustworthy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Jackson Prairie, WA
With Accredited Drug Testing, you benefit from a network of stores stretching across the nation. This extensive reach ensures quick and stress-free access to testing services, whether you're in bustling cities or serene locales like Jackson Prairie.
Simple, Confidential Process in Jackson Prairie, WA
The process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and discreet. Ordering, collection, and receiving results are all designed to respect privacy concerns, ensuring a stress-free experience. This is crucial for those seeking both ease of use and confidentiality in drug testing.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Jackson Prairie, WA
Offering competitive pricing structures, hair follicle testing is budget-friendly for businesses of all sizes. The swift turnaround time provides quick insights, merging value with efficiency. Companies can enjoy peace of mind without putting a dent in their budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Jackson Prairie, WA
Hair follicle testing offers unparalleled efficiency in drug screening. Not only do these tests provide precise results, but they also deliver rapid outcomes, ensuring high accuracy for assessing substance use. With a streamlined process, these tests quickly detect drugs, making them a favorite choice for many.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Jackson Prairie, WA
By adopting hair follicle testing, employers are ensured of abiding by strict drug-free workplace regulations. These tests help lower legal risks and bolster workplace safety, offering peace of mind. The comprehensive screening strengthens policy adherence.