Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now acknowledged as a robust method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drugs by preserving biomarkers within the hair strands. When obtained near the scalp, hair can show a detection timeframe of up to roughly 3 months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample size of 1.5 inches with around 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) from near the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, the preferred amount for examination and validation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is recommended for weighing the sample. If scalp hair isn't present, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' pertains solely to scalp hair, while 'body hair' refers to other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The principal steps in processing a lab drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves integrating a sample into a laboratory’s system initially. This covers confirming correct sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any additional information missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While it is a cost-efficient option to exclude drug use for most samples, a positive result from Screening requires confirmation for court validation. Presumptively positive samples in Screening need further confirmation.
When a sample is presumptively positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. At this stage, drugs are removed from hair at a substantially lower concentration than in alternative methodologies (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex methodology to carry out.
Confirmation for any positive screening result is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation if needed. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently called "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Kitsap Lake, WA
Hair testing significantly outperforms urine testing by detecting substances used up to 90 days prior, far longer than the few days urine tests cover. This comprehensive detection period provides an in-depth view of past substance use. Furthermore, hair tests boast better accuracy and reliability, making them the superior choice for employers and entities who prioritize drug-free environments.
Extended Detection Window in Kitsap Lake, WA
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection period of up to 90 days, providing a broad overview of an individual's substance use history. This advantage is crucial for employers seeking a comprehensive understanding of an applicant or employee’s habits. In Kitsap Lake, WA, this extended window assists in making more informed and safer hiring decisions by uncovering patterns of use that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Kitsap Lake, WA
Hair follicle tests are highly resistant to tampering, offering reliable and definitive results. Unlike other methods, these tests significantly minimize the potential for sample adulteration, providing certainty in the outcomes. In Kitsap Lake, WA, the integrity of hair testing solidifies its reputation as a trustworthy screening tool that delivers unequivocal and impartial results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Kitsap Lake, WA
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including local options in Kitsap Lake, WA, ensures fast and easy access to drug testing services. This convenience eliminates the hassle often associated with arranging and conducting tests, ensuring a seamless and efficient screening process accessible to everyone, regardless of location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Kitsap Lake, WA
The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results is both simple and confidential, addressing privacy concerns effectively. In Kitsap Lake, WA, our streamlined approach ensures a straightforward experience, safeguarding personal information while providing ease of use. This ensures clients can confidently and securely handle their testing needs.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Kitsap Lake, WA
Our competitive pricing models and quick turnaround times present excellent value, delivering peace of mind at a cost-effective rate. In Kitsap Lake, WA, businesses of all sizes can benefit from our efficient services, ensuring they meet their testing needs without compromising on quality or speed, ensuring business continuity.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Kitsap Lake, WA
Hair follicle drug tests offer a precision unmatched by traditional methods, detecting substance use with remarkable accuracy. Results are fast, providing the reliability needed for critical decisions. In Kitsap Lake, WA, the swift processing and precise outcomes ensure confidence in every result, serving businesses and individuals looking for trustworthy testing solutions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Kitsap Lake, WA
By utilizing hair follicle testing, employers can ensure adherence to drug-free policies, thus reducing potential legal ramifications. This method supports enhancing workplace safety and contributing to a secure environment. In Kitsap Lake, WA, embracing this testing method brings peace of mind and compliance with regulatory standards for a health-conscious workplace.
