Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective means for detecting substance and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive timeline for alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. If collected near the scalp, hair can provide a detection window of up to three months for alcohol and substances. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to falsify, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of about 200 hair strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal sample size for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It is recommended to weigh the sample using a precise scale. If scalp hair is not present, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. The term 'head hair' refers specifically to scalp hair. 'Body hair' includes all other hair types (facial, axial, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. This step involves confirming the sample's seal and shipping integrity, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid assessment for substance use. While Screening efficiently identifies drugs in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for court acceptance. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening require subsequent confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive in Screening, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. During this phase, substances are removed from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most intricate methodology.
Confirming any positive screen result is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples testing presumptively positive are washed as needed before confirmation. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While frequently termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis is of the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Kapowsin, WA Hair tests provide superior detection accuracy compared to urine tests, offering an extended detection timeframe and more reliable results. These tests offer significant advantages for those prioritizing thorough drug use monitoring.
The potential for cheating is greatly reduced with hair follicle testing, providing an edge over urine tests. This test offers robustness and consistency, making it a preferred choice for many organizations.
Extended Detection Window in Kapowsin, WA Hair follicle testing detects drug use over a much longer period—up to 90 days—providing employers a more complete understanding of substance use history than other testing methods.
This extended detection capability allows for a profound insight into an individual's drug history, assisting employers in making more informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Kapowsin, WA Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the risk of sample manipulation. This method ensures that results are both reliable and difficult to dispute, strengthening the integrity of the testing process.
Eliminating opportunities for sample tampering, hair testing inherently bolsters the trustworthiness of test results, offering credible evidence for evaluation processes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Kapowsin, WA Our widespread network of testing centers ensures easy and efficient access to drug testing services across the nation, including local centers in Kapowsin.
The expansive reach of our testing facilities allows for seamless scheduling and short waiting times, enhancing the overall testing experience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Kapowsin, WA Our hair follicle testing process is straightforward and respects clients' privacy, from ordering the test to receiving results. We ensure a confidential and seamless experience at every step.
The framework of our testing procedure is designed with ease of use in mind, ensuring an accessible and private experience for all our clients.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Kapowsin, WA Our competitive pricing and rapid result times offer substantial value for businesses of any size, ensuring efficient drug testing without compromising on quality.
With our cost-effective approach, businesses can benefit from top-tier testing services while experiencing quick result turnaround, aiding in swift decision-making processes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Kapowsin, WA Hair follicle drug tests provide high precision in detecting substance use, offering fast and reliable outcomes. This testing technology's accuracy surpasses conventional methods, ensuring top-tier results in quick turnaround times.
The swift results provided by hair drug tests are invaluable for maintaining safe and drug-free environments. This method saves time while ensuring dependable outcomes that assist in informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Kapowsin, WA Using hair follicle testing helps businesses comply with drug-free workplace policies, reducing potential legal liabilities while promoting a safer working environment.
This testing approach not only aids in maintaining compliance but also offers employers peace of mind through consistent and defensible drug testing results.
