Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is esteemed as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It captures a historical record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair that continue to grow. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate 3-month window for detecting alcohol and other drugs. Hair is easy to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's size) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and validation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels above 10, it is advisable to collect 150mg of the sample. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If head hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedures for processing a drug test result entail four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary processing of a sample into the laboratory’s database. This encompasses confirming the sample was properly sealed and delivered, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial rapid examination for drugs of abuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug usage for the majority of samples, a positive screen necessitates a confirmation to be court-admissible. Samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, substances are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than in alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), establishing hair drug screening as the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptively positive undergo washing prior to confirmation, if necessary. The complete laboratory protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While frequently cited as "hair follicle tests", the examination pertains to the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Tanner, WA
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy and reliability in Tanner, WA. With a longer detection window and reduced risk of tampering, this method provides a clearer picture of an individual's substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Tanner, WA
Hair follicle testing stands out in Tanner, WA, with its ability to detect drug use for up to 90 days. This extended window gives employers a comprehensive view of an applicant's or employee's drug history, ensuring informed hiring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Tanner, WA
With hair follicle tests, Tanner, WA ensures a significant reduction in sample tampering risk. This method provides reliable, unquestionable results, making it a preferred choice for employers seeking assured compliance.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Tanner, WA
With numerous centers nationwide, including Tanner, WA, testing services are easily accessible. This ensures a quick and hassle-free experience for those in need of reliable testing options.
Simple, Confidential Process in Tanner, WA
The hair follicle testing process in Tanner, WA is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the process respects privacy, offering ease of use and reassurance to individuals and organizations.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Tanner, WA
In Tanner, WA, competitive pricing and fast turnaround make hair follicle testing an attractive choice for businesses of all sizes. Offering excellent value and prompt service, it supports companies in maintaining a compliant and safe environment.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Tanner, WA
Hair follicle tests offer unmatched precision and speed. In Tanner, WA, these tests are praised for their high accuracy in substance detection, helping employers and agencies make informed decisions swiftly and confidently.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Tanner, WA
Employers in Tanner, WA benefit from hair follicle testing by ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This reduces legal risks while enhancing safety and productivity, offering peace of mind to business owners.
