Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair is capable of providing a prolonged history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hairs' fibers as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair can indicate up to a three-month period of substance use detection. Hair is easy to collect, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of about 200 strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, which is considered optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG evaluations, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. Head hair refers specifically to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial step of registering a sample within a lab's system. This step includes confirming the sample's integrity during sealing and shipping, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplemental data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary examination for the presence of drug substances. Screening offers a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use in most samples, but any positive results from Screening must undergo confirmation for court admissibility. Samples yielding presumptive positive results require further validation.
When a sample indicates a presumptive positive outcome during Screening, additional hair from the specimen is prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are retrieved from the hair at lesser concentrations compared to methods like urine or oral fluid analysis, which makes hair drug testing one of the most challenging methodologies.
Positive screening results are verified using techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. From Accessioning through Confirmation, the complete laboratory process is reviewed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specialty and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently termed as "hair follicle tests," these tests actually analyze the hair itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
For those in Bartley, WV, hair follicle testing stands out when compared to urine tests. Its superior detection accuracy and reliability make it the preferred choice for many. Unlike urine tests, which may detect recent substance use, hair tests offer a broader detection window.
Employers and agencies benefit from the wide detection scope of hair testing, capturing a longer history of substance use. This comprehensive approach ensures more accurate assessments.
In Bartley, WV, hair follicle testing provides an extended detection period, capturing drug use up to 90 days prior. This allows employers a look into an individual’s long-term substance history, offering a complete picture.
The lengthened detection window afforded by hair testing offers unmatched insights. This makes it a key asset for companies dedicated to maintaining a drug-free environment.
Hair follicle tests in Bartley, WV, significantly limit the risk of sample tampering. Reliability and accuracy are bolstered due to the inherent difficulties in adulterating hair samples.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair testing ensures unwavering results. These tests prevent the deceit possible with other testing methods, such as urine tests.
Bartley, WV benefits from the convenient access to nationwide testing centers, ensuring seamless service availability. Our local locations simplify the process for needing testing quickly and effectively.
No matter where you are, our extensive network guarantees you access to hassle-free testing services, making the process effortless and efficient.
In Bartley, WV, the process of hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential. From ordering a test, undergoing the assessment, to receiving results, every step respects your privacy.
Ease of use is built into our system, ensuring the confidentiality and simplicity of testing is never compromised. This builds trust and encourages repeat use of our services.
Competitive pricing in Bartley, WV, makes our hair follicle tests accessible to companies of various sizes, with a focus on affordable options and quick turnaround times.
Efficient service combined with reasonable pricing enhances the value proposition, ensuring companies get the best in drug testing without heavy expenses.
In Bartley, WV, hair follicle drug tests are known for their fast and precise results. Their accuracy surpasses many other testing methods, making them a reliable choice for detecting substance use. Quick turnaround ensures you receive results promptly.
Reliability is key in hair follicle testing. This method excels in delivering accurate outcomes, leaving little room for doubt. In testing, knowing the results can be trusted is invaluable.
Employers in Bartley, WV, attain peace of mind through hair follicle testing. This method helps meet compliance with workplace drug-free policies, thereby reducing potential legal risks.
Maintaining a safe workplace is paramount. Hair follicle testing supports these objectives by offering a reliable evaluation of drug use while fostering compliance and safety.