Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has increasingly been recognized as an effective tool for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When clipped near the scalp, hair can reveal usage information for alcohol and drugs of up to roughly three months. Hair is straightforward to collect, poses challenges for tampering, and is convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (approximating the thickness of a #2 pencil) taken nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount needed for evaluation and confirmation. For EtG add-ons and/or testing exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. A jeweler’s scale is suggested for weighing the sample. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equal quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it strictly pertains to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves introducing the sample into a lab’s system. It includes ensuring the sample is appropriately sealed and delivered, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry that an electronic chain of custody system may lack.
Screening involves a swift initial assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive test requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples that are initially positive in Screening need a subsequent confirmation.
In cases where a sample is initially positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the primary sample and prepped for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are drawn out from hair at a lower concentration than with other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methods to conduct.
Verification of any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all samples that are initially positive undergo washing as needed. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 benchmarks.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Montgomery, WV, is evident through superior detection accuracy. Hair tests extend the detection window significantly, unlike urine tests, which only ascertain recent use. The ability to reveal up to a 90-day history sets hair tests apart, offering comprehensive insights. The reliability offered by hair testing ensures a robust assessment, outperforming traditional urine tests significantly.
Extended Detection Window is a substantial advantage of hair follicle testing in Montgomery, WV. Hair tests capture drug use over a 90-day period, providing a fuller picture of an individual's substance history. For employers, this translates into more informed decisions, granting a detailed look into an applicant's or employee's past. This long-term detection period is unmatched by other testing methods, making it an invaluable tool.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method offered by hair follicle assessments in Montgomery, WV, significantly reduces risks of sample manipulation. Unlike other methods, this test involves a strictly observed collection process, ensuring the integrity of the sample. This reliability in testing minimizes chances for adulteration or substitution, providing employers and authorities with unquestionable results. Reliability is assured, fostering trust in the outcomes provided.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations benefit residents of Montgomery, WV, by providing easy access to testing services. Accredited Drug Testing's extensive network ensures that individuals and companies can quickly access hair follicle testing without hassle. This accessibility enhances the testing experience, making it swift and efficient for everyone involved. Having a testing facility close by simplifies the process significantly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Montgomery, WV, assures clients of privacy and ease when undergoing hair follicle testing. The entire procedure, from ordering the test to receiving results, is designed to maintain confidentiality and straightforwardness. This dedication to simplicity guarantees users a stress-free experience, addressing privacy concerns effectively and ensuring that the process remains straightforward for all parties involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Montgomery, WV, make hair follicle testing an economical and efficient choice for businesses of all sizes. Our competitive pricing, combined with rapid result delivery, ensures excellent value for companies seeking reliable drug testing solutions. The swift and cost-effective process allows enterprises to focus on their core operations with confidence, knowing they are getting unparalleled service.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results are crucial in managing substance use in Montgomery, WV. Hair follicle tests deliver quick outcomes without compromising precision. Their high accuracy transforms how substances are detected, ensuring that those in charge have reliable data at their fingertips. This test's precision facilitates immediate and informed decision-making in matters of substance use, enhancing overall reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers is achieved through hair follicle testing in Montgomery, WV. This method ensures adherence to workplace drug policies, mitigating legal risks and fostering a safe working environment. Hair tests' ability to detect use over a longer term aids employers in maintaining a drug-free workplace with certainty. The peace of mind delivered through reliable testing is invaluable for business operations.
