Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug intake by incorporating biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair shaft. Proximity to the scalp allows hair to offer nearly a 3-month detection span for alcohol and drugs. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches long, consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, yields 100mg, which is the preferred quantity for analysis and verification. For tests such as EtG, plus tests above 10 panels, a quantity of 150mg is advised. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't accessible, an equal volume of body hair may be utilized. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for a drug test result consists of four central steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the step where a sample is introduced into a lab’s system, ensuring the sample has been correctly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial swift evaluation for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is a low-cost method to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive result must be confirmed for admissibility in legal proceedings. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair from the primary specimen is gathered and readied for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower levels than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), underscoring hair drug testing as the most challenging technique to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are cleaned prior to confirmation, if necessary. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although sometimes referred to as "hair follicle tests", the examination analyzes the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Annamoriah, WV
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine methods, hair tests showcase a superior detection accuracy. Unlike urine tests, which often provide a snapshot of recent use, hair testing examines long-term patterns. This method is particularly beneficial for employers in Annamoriah dedicated to maintaining a drug-free workplace and ensuring stringent substance use policies.
Extended Detection Window in Annamoriah, WV
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its extensive detection window, stretching up to 90 days into the past. This feature allows employers in Annamoriah to view an employee's or applicant's drug use history over a more comprehensive period, offering valuable insights into their long-term behavior and reliability.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Annamoriah, WV
One of the hallmarks of hair follicle tests is their resistance to tampering. Unlike urine samples, which can be adulterated, hair follicles provide a durable and trusted source for drug detection. This method eliminates many of the doubts surrounding drug testing results, ensuring that the findings are reliable and difficult to dispute.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Annamoriah, WV
The convenience of accessing testing services in Annamoriah is enhanced by numerous nationwide centers. This broad availability ensures that testing is not only quick but also hassle-free, granting individuals and employers easy access to reliable drug testing services without significant disruption to their routines.
Simple, Confidential Process in Annamoriah, WV
The process to order, perform, and receive results from hair follicle testing in Annamoriah is straightforward and confidential. This user-friendly procedure respects privacy concerns, providing a seamless experience from start to finish, which is crucial for those emphasizing discretion and ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Annamoriah, WV
The competitive pricing and quick turnaround times associated with hair follicle testing in Annamoriah make it an attractive choice for businesses of all sizes. By offering excellent value without compromising on quality, employers can maintain efficient operations while ensuring comprehensive drug testing at affordable rates.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Annamoriah, WV
Hair follicle drug testing offers a speedy alternative to urine tests. These tests are widely recognized for their high precision, capable of detecting a wide range of substances accurately. Their reliability makes them invaluable for employers seeking thorough and dependable results in Annamoriah, providing swift insights into individuals' substance use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Annamoriah, WV
For employers in Annamoriah, hair follicle testing is an asset in maintaining compliance with workplace drug-free policies. By employing this method, businesses significantly reduce legal risks and enhance the overall safety of their work environments. The clarity and accuracy provided by hair testing offer employers the peace of mind they need.
