Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When cut near the scalp, hair can offer a detection timeframe extending up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and various drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprised of roughly 200 strands (similar to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplemental analyses, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We advocate using a jeweler's scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When discussing head hair, we refer specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for evaluating a drug test result typically involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning signifies the preliminary processing of a sample within a laboratory's framework. This step verifies that the sample was correctly sealed and delivered, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use in most samples, any positive screen requires confirmation to be legally valid. Any samples presumptively indicated as positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample is deemed presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is retrieved from the original specimen in preparation for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), accounting for why hair drug screening is among the most challenging methodologies to implement.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive are meticulously washed before confirmation as needed. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and conforms to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Albany, WI
In Albany, WI, more employers and agencies are choosing hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests. The increased preference is attributed to the superior detection accuracy hair tests offer. With a longer detection window and higher reliability, hair tests ensure a thorough assessment of drug history, providing a more dependable result than the standard urine analysis.
Extended Detection Window in Albany, WI
Employers in Albany, WI benefit from hair follicle tests' capability to track drug use over a significantly prolonged timeframe, often up to 90 days. This comprehensive detection window provides a broad perspective on an individual’s substance use history, offering crucial insights that aid in making more informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Albany, WI
For those in Albany, WI, hair follicle testing offers major advantages in sample integrity, greatly minimizing the propensity for adulteration. The method is designed to provide consistent and unassailable results, ensuring that the findings are genuine and dependable, thereby safeguarding against manipulation and enhancing the trustworthiness of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Albany, WI
Accredited Drug Testing grants convenient access to testing services nationwide, including Albany, WI. The presence of numerous testing centers ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience, making it easy for individuals and companies alike to secure essential testing services wherever they are located, enhancing accessibility and convenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Albany, WI
The hair follicle testing process in Albany, WI is designed for simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, each step respects privacy and ensures ease of use. This approach assuages concerns regarding privacy, making the drug testing process straightforward and assuring users of the discretion upheld throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Albany, WI
Albany, WI patrons find hair follicle testing to be both cost-effective and swift. With competitive pricing structures and speedy result delivery, we offer exceptional value, ensuring businesses of all scales can access reliable testing without financial strain. This dedication to affordability and efficiency underscores our commitment to customer satisfaction.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Albany, WI
In Albany, WI, hair follicle drug testing sets the benchmark for delivering precise and speedy results. This method ensures an unparalleled level of accuracy when detecting substance use. Whether you're concerned about the detection of drugs or alcohol, the hair follicle test remains an advanced solution known for its efficiency and reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Albany, WI
Incorporating hair follicle testing, employers in Albany, WI can ensure compliance with their drug-free workplace policies. This testing method not only reduces legal liabilities but also boosts workplace safety, offering employers the peace of mind that their workforce is compliant with established substance use standards, fortifying their organizational security.
