Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Acknowledged as an impactful technology, hair analysis serves as a means for identifying consumption of drugs and alcohol. Within the strands of growing hair, biomarkers are encapsulated, capturing a prolonged record of alcohol and other substance usage. When sourced from the scalp closely, hair can reveal substance usage information for an estimated 3-month duration for alcohol and additional drugs. Collection is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.
A specimen comprising a 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands, resembling the width of a #2 pencil and nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, optimal for both testing and confirmation. For EtG, supplemental, and tests exceeding 10 panels, it's advisable to obtain 150mg of the sample. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for measuring the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair can't be collected, the collection of an equivalent amount of body hair is permissible. References to head hair are specifically concerning scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The core procedures in a laboratory’s drug testing process involve Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory system. This step ensures the sample is properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and handles any extra data entry not included in an electronic chain of custody arrangement.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. Although a cost-efficient means to dismiss drug use in most cases, confirmation is required for a positive screen to hold up in legal proceedings. Any samples that show a presumptive positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Upon a presumptive positive indication during the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. During this procedure, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), posing a greater challenge for hair drug analysis.
Any positive screening outcomes are validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Samples that are presumptively positive undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guideline and the accreditation standards of ISO/IEC 17025.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed “hair follicle testsâ€, the test itself evaluates the hair strand, not the scalp's hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in South Benton, WA
The superiority of hair testing lies in its ability to detect drug use with higher accuracy and dependability compared to traditional urine tests. Hair tests track substance consumption over an extended timeframe, which urine tests cannot match. Employers find significant value in the comprehensive insights provided by hair testing.
Besides offering a broader surveillance window, hair follicle tests are also less prone to manipulation, ensuring the integrity of the results. As such, for those prioritizing accuracy and reliability, hair testing emerges as the preferred choice over urine testing.
Extended Detection Window in South Benton, WA
Hair follicle testing's impressive detection range, lasting up to 90 days, is invaluable for employers. By offering insights into an applicant or employee's substance use history, organizations in South Benton, WA gain a meaningful perspective that cannot be achieved with other testing methods.
This longer detection window allows companies to enforce their drug policies more effectively, ensuring that they make well-informed decisions based on comprehensive data regarding past substance use. It acts as a robust safety measure for maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in South Benton, WA
Hair follicle tests dramatically diminish the chances of sample tampering. The resilience of these tests provides reliable and indisputable results, making them a go-to option for ensuring accuracy every time a test is conducted in South Benton, WA.
The inherent design of hair follicle testing deters any form of adulteration, thereby maintaining the integrity of the sample from collection to analysis. By choosing this method, one can be confident that the results reflect an honest and precise picture of the subject's substance use history.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in South Benton, WA
With a vast network of testing centers spanning the country, Accredited Drug Testing ensures quick, easy access to services. Whether in South Benton, WA, or elsewhere, individuals and companies can conveniently utilize our drug testing facilities.
Our extensive reach simplifies the testing process, removing barriers and reducing waiting times. Clients experience seamless service delivery, with local facilities readily available, simplifying the logistics associated with drug testing appointments and procedures.
Simple, Confidential Process in South Benton, WA
Ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle testing in South Benton, WA, is a straightforward and private affair. Ensuring confidentiality at each step, this process addresses privacy concerns and assures ease of use for all clients eager to maintain discretion.
The streamlined system employed by Accredited Drug Testing guarantees a hassle-free experience, focusing on the user’s convenience. The emphasis on confidentiality means individuals can engage with our services confidently, knowing their information is secure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in South Benton, WA
Our competitive pricing combined with swift turnaround times offers businesses unbeatable value. Companies of any size in South Benton, WA, can benefit from our cost-effective hair follicle testing services without compromising on speed or quality.
The affordability ensures that even small organizations can incorporate thorough drug testing into their operational procedures. By offering an attractive price-performance ratio, we help companies uphold safety and compliance economically.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in South Benton, WA
In South Benton, WA, the accuracy and speed of hair follicle tests are unmatched. These tests offer a high level of precision in detecting substance use, making them a popular choice for those seeking fast results. The methodology ensures that you can trust the findings, giving peace of mind with every test result returned.
The hair follicle testing process is engineered for quick yet accurate detection. The structured procedure eliminates guesswork, providing results you can rely on. The efficiency of these tests makes them ideal for situations requiring prompt, dependable information about substance use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in South Benton, WA
Employers in South Benton, WA, benefit immensely from hair follicle testing, ensuring adherence to workplace drug-free regulations. This method minimizes legal risks and upholds safety standards, granting peace of mind by promoting a healthier work environment.
Hair testing creates a culture of compliance, supporting employers in maintaining stringent drug policies. The outcome is a secure and effective workplace, devoid of the complications that arise from substance misuse. This proactive approach resolves potential legal issues before they manifest.
