Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair sample analysis is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers within their fibers, offering a prolonged timeline of substance use. If obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of up to three months for both alcohol and other substances. The collection process is straightforward, the risk of tampering is relatively low, and it is easy to transport.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of about 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. It's advisable to measure the sample with a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types, such as facial or axillary.
Process Overview
The entire laboratory workflow for processing a drug test result encompasses Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step, where samples are integrated into a laboratory's system. This step ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigns a Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completes any additional entries not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening provides a rapid initial check for drug abuse. It is a cost-effective method to exclude drug use in most samples, although confirmation is necessary for court admissibility of any positive screen results. Presumptively positive samples identified during Screening require further confirmation.
Once a sample is deemed presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. In this stage, drugs are extracted at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods, such as urine or oral fluid testing, highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Each presumptively positive sample is washed before confirmation when required. The entire laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is thoroughly reviewed according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the term "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Willapa Valley, WA
Hair follicle testing outperforms traditional urine tests by offering superior accuracy and reliability. With an extended detection window, hair tests provide a comprehensive picture of drug use beyond the limits of urine testing.
Extended Detection Window in Willapa Valley, WA
Hair follicle testing offers up to a 90-day detection period, providing employers with a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history. This longer window of detection is unmatched by other testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Willapa Valley, WA
Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of sample tampering. These tests are nearly impossible to adulterate, ensuring that results are reliable and beyond question.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Willapa Valley, WA
Our widespread network of testing centers provides quick and easy access to services nationwide, including local options in Willapa Valley, ensuring convenience and ease for everyone.
Simple, Confidential Process in Willapa Valley, WA
Our system guarantees a straightforward and private process for ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle testing, addressing privacy concerns and ensuring ease of use for all users.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Willapa Valley, WA
We offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround times, delivering exceptional value and peace of mind for businesses of all sizes, making it an attractive option for drug testing needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Willapa Valley, WA
Hair follicle drug tests offer precision and speed, providing high accuracy in substance detection. These tests quickly and effectively identify drug use, making them a reliable choice for both employers and individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Willapa Valley, WA
Hair follicle testing ensures compliance with corporate drug-free policies, not only minimizing legal risks but also enhancing workplace safety and security for companies.
