Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is a recognized method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands of developing hair. If obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use for nearly a 3-month span. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively tamper-proof, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with approximately 200 hair strands (similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, the preferred quantity for analyses and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for measurement. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable portion of body hair is acceptable. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (face, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial incorporation of a sample into a laboratory’s system. This step ensures the sample’s seal and shipment integrity, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data entry that an electronic chain of custody system might omit.
Screening is a preliminary, rapid test for drug abuse indicators. While it is an economically efficient approach to discard drug usage in most cases, a positive Screening necessitates Confirmation for legal acceptability. All samples with a positive Screen result require this secondary confirmation step.
If a sample results in a positive indication during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. At this stage, substances are isolated from hair at a much diminished concentration relative to other approaches (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus positioning hair drug testing as a high-complexity process.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques confirm any positive Screening outcomes. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to Confirmation as necessary. The entire lab workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is thoroughly examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation guidelines.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled "hair follicle tests," this test actually examines the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests in Sheridan Beach, WA, the benefits are clear. Hair testing stands out for its superior detection accuracy and reliability, offering a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance use. Unlike urine tests, which provide a short-term snapshot, hair follicle tests can detect drug use over a longer period, reducing the chance of false negatives and ensuring accurate results.
In Sheridan Beach, WA, the extended detection window of hair follicle testing offers a major advantage. Hair tests can detect drug use for up to 90 days, providing a thorough insight into an individual's substance habits. This extensive period allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of a candidate's or employee's history. Unlike other tests, hair analysis ensures a more reliable projection of past drug use.
Hair follicle testing in Sheridan Beach, WA, significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration. The tamper-resistant nature of hair tests provides reliable results that are difficult to dispute. Unlike urine tests, where substitution can occur, hair samples are almost impossible to alter. With a monitored collection process, hair testing ensures unquestionable accuracy and dependable outcomes.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient locations in Sheridan Beach, WA, and nationwide for hassle-free hair follicle testing. Our extensive network ensures that testing is easily accessible, allowing for fast and efficient service. With testing facilities across all major cities, clients can find a nearby location quickly, ensuring seamless and stress-free access to our services, wherever they are situated.
In Sheridan Beach, WA, our hair follicle testing ensures a simple and confidential process from start to finish. Ordering and conducting the test is straightforward, with quick and easy steps to follow. We prioritize privacy, ensuring that all client details and test results remain confidential. With accessible guidance throughout, clients can confidently access and interpret results quickly and securely.
With affordable pricing structures, our hair follicle testing in Sheridan Beach, WA, is accessible to businesses of all sizes. The competitive pricing underscores our commitment to providing value, coupled with fast turnaround times. Companies benefit from cost-effective testing without compromising on quality or speed, ensuring the best value for drug testing needs in the region.
In Sheridan Beach, WA, hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precise and swift results. Their impressive ability to accurately detect substance use makes them a preferred choice for many institutions. High accuracy ensures that employers get the most reliable data on drug use, providing vital insights into current and past behavior. Quick processing means results can be delivered in a timely manner, aiding swift decision-making.
Employers in Sheridan Beach, WA, gain peace of mind using hair follicle testing to uphold their drug-free workplace policies. Ensuring compliance reduces legal risks, creating a safer and more trustworthy working environment. Reliable and comprehensive results allow organizations to make informed hiring decisions, bolstering workplace safety and minimizing liability concerns.
