Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the fiber of the hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to about three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to send.
Gathering a 1.5-inch piece consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (about the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp results in obtaining 100mg of hair, which is perfect for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the material is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair isn't accessible, a similar quantity of body hair can be taken. Mention of head hair specifically refers to scalp hair only. Body hair includes all other hair types (facial, armpit, etc.).
Process Overview
The crucial stages in processing a drug test result in a lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning deals with the initial entry of a sample into the laboratory's system. This process covers ensuring the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling out any extra data entry missed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a quick preliminary check for substances of abuse. Screening effectively rules out drug usage for most samples at a low cost, but a positive screen requires confirmation for legal consideration. Any samples that are indicated as positive during Screening need an additional confirmation.
In the event a sample is indicated as positive during Screening, extra hair is extracted from the initial sample to undergo Extraction. At this stage, substances are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or saliva), explaining why hair drug screening is the most complex technique to conduct.
Confirmation for any positive screen result is conducted through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are deemed positive in Screening are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The whole 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: Though often termed "hair follicle tests", the testing process evaluates the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lenore, WV
In Lenore, WV, hair testing outshines traditional urine tests through superior detection accuracy and reliability. Compared to urine tests, hair tests offer a broader detection time frame and a more secure collection process, curbing attempts at evasion.
Extended Detection Window in Lenore, WV
Hair follicle testing proves advantageous with its extensive detection window, tracing drug use for up to 90 days. This comprehensive review aids employers in understanding an individual's history better than the shorter-duration urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lenore, WV
Hair follicle tests are resistant to tampering, reducing adulteration risks. Their robust nature ensures employers receive dependable, unquestionable results, fortifying the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lenore, WV
Our vast network of nationwide testing centers, including Lenore, WV, facilitates hassle-free and accessible testing services, ensuring convenience for all clients seeking hair follicle drug tests.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lenore, WV
The process for hair follicle testing in Lenore is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, we prioritize privacy and ease, addressing common privacy concerns regarding drug testing.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lenore, WV
We offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround for our hair follicle tests, providing excellent value for companies of all sizes in Lenore, WV, and ensuring they receive timely and cost-effective service.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lenore, WV
Hair follicle drug tests provide speedy and precise results, effectively identifying substance use. The method is revered for its high reliability, ensuring quick access to accurate results, a vital consideration for employers seeking to maintain a drug-free workplace.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lenore, WV
Utilizing hair follicle testing, employers in Lenore can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This minimizes legal liabilities and bolsters workplace safety, granting peace of mind to business operators.
