Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for uncovering substance use involving drugs and alcohol. The strands of hair capture and hold onto biomarkers within their fibers, providing a prolonged history of drug and alcohol usage. When cut close to the scalp, the hair can reveal usage of drugs and alcohol within a roughly 3-month period retrospectively. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches from approximately 200 strands of hair (similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp offers 100mg of hair, making it the optimal specimen for both screening and verifying results. For comprehensive testing such as EtG, additional tests, or those beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is suggested. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample is advisable. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent amount from the body can be utilized. When discussing head hair, it is strictly referencing scalp hair. Conversely, body hair encompasses all other kinds (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Key phases in the lab processing of drug tests are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where the sample is logged into a lab's system. This involves checking that the sample is sealed and delivered correctly, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and adding any extra data not captured by an electronic custody system.
Screening processes a preliminary evaluation for potential drug presence. Though a cost-effective means of excluding drug consumption in most samples, a favorable initial result must undergo confirmation to be legally permissible. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
For specimens flagged as presumptive positives during Screening, additional hair is extracted for the Extraction phase. In this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), underscoring why hair screening is among the most intricate methodologies.
Confirming any positive outcome from screening is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples deemed presumptively positive undergo washing before final confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation is checked under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being called "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bloomfield, WI
The benefits of hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests are clear. Hair tests offer superior detection accuracy and are more reliable, with longer detection windows that give a comprehensive history of substance use. Compared to urine tests, they significantly reduce the possibility of sample tampering, providing employers more dependable results.
Extended Detection Window in Bloomfield, WI
Hair follicle testing is a preferred choice for its ability to track drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This extensive detection window gives a fuller picture of an individual’s substance use history, aiding employers in making informed decisions about their workforce's reliability and safety, beyond the limits of standard testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bloomfield, WI
Hair follicle tests offer a significant advantage by minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. With the observed collection process, these tests provide reliable and unquestionable results. Employers and legal entities can thus ensure that the drug testing outcomes they receive are authentic and trustworthy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bloomfield, WI
With comprehensive coverage through our nationwide network of testing centers, individuals and businesses in Bloomfield can access drug testing services conveniently and efficiently. The availability of local centers ensures that clients receive hassle-free and quick service without the stress of traveling long distances.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bloomfield, WI
Our hair follicle drug tests boast a simple, confidential process from ordering and testing to result delivery. Privacy concerns are addressed thoroughly to ensure users feel secure. The streamlined approach not only saves time but also maintains confidentiality throughout, easing apprehensions around drug testing procedures.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bloomfield, WI
Our services provide competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, offering excellent value for businesses of all sizes. With affordability and speed, our drug testing processes are designed to meet the needs of employers seeking efficient and cost-effective solutions for maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bloomfield, WI
Hair follicle drug tests provide swift and reliable results with high accuracy rates. These tests quickly determine substance use, giving employers and organizations a robust tool for drug screening. The processing speed and precision ensure efficiency in delivering results that stakeholders can trust, reinforcing workplace safety policies.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bloomfield, WI
Utilizing hair follicle testing assists organizations in adhering to drug-free workplace policies, thus minimizing legal liabilities and enhancing overall workplace safety. Employers gain significant peace of mind knowing that their drug screening processes comply with the highest standards and reduce risks related to substance abuse.
