Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair can preserve a timeline of these substances by embedding biomarkers within its growing strands. When collected near the scalp, it offers a detection window of up to three months for both alcohol and other drugs. The collection process is straightforward, the risk of tampering is low, and shipping is uncomplicated.
A sample comprising 1.5 inches of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) taken from near the scalp will yield about 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, extra tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair can be utilized. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair pertains to all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab process for drug testing involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning begins with entering the sample into the lab's system. This step confirms the sample was sealed and mailed correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary check for drug substances. Although Screening is cost-efficient for eliminating drug usage in most samples, a positive finding must be verified to hold up in court. All samples positive in Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample tests positive in Screening, further hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. This phase extracts drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than methods like urine or oral fluids, making hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation of any positive screen result employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All positive samples undergo a wash before confirmation, if necessary. Each step, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is reviewed according to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although called "hair follicle tests," the actual test evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Beecher, WI
Hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy and detection capabilities compared to traditional urine tests. In Beecher, WI, it provides a robust solution for employers due to the extended period of detection, making it ideal for long-term substance use assessment.
Extended Detection Window in Beecher, WI
Employers in Beecher, WI benefit significantly from hair follicle tests due to their extended detection window of up to 90 days. This offers a comprehensive history of drug use, aiding in informed decision-making regarding employment and disciplinary actions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Beecher, WI
Hair follicle tests drastically minimize the chances of sample tampering, a common concern with urinalyses. In Beecher, WI, this method ensures that results are both reliable and free from manipulation, providing peace of mind for all stakeholders.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Beecher, WI
Access to hair follicle testing in Beecher, WI is seamless with a network of nationwide testing centers. Convenience is a priority, ensuring quick, stress-free access to testing services, vital for busy employers and individuals.
Simple, Confidential Process in Beecher, WI
The hair follicle testing process in Beecher, WI is designed to be straightforward and confidential. Employers and individuals can order, test, and receive results with ease while maintaining the privacy of all parties involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Beecher, WI
In Beecher, WI, competitive pricing and quick turnaround times make hair follicle testing accessible to businesses of all sizes. The value offered ensures peace of mind while keeping budget constraints in mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Beecher, WI
Hair follicle drug tests are lauded for their precision. In Beecher, WI, they offer quick and precise detection of substance use, ensuring both accuracy and efficacy. The methodology is advanced, providing reliable results that enhance trust in drug screening processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Beecher, WI
Hair follicle testing in Beecher, WI ensures workplace safety and compliance with drug-free policies. Employers can reduce legal risks and enhance company safety while adhering to policies with reliable test results.
