Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. Hair retains a prolonged record of these substances by capturing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When hair is taken near the scalp, it can reveal substance use over a roughly three-month period. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion comprising around 200 hair strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) from close to the scalp yields about 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests involving more than 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. Should scalp hair be unattainable, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. By head hair, we mean scalp hair only. Body hair includes other types such as facial, axillary, etc.
Process Overview
The core steps in the laboratory processing of drug test results are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step where a sample is integrated into a lab’s system. This step checks that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data not provided by an electronic chain of custody setup.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. While cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most cases, a positive Screening needs confirmation to hold up in legal proceedings. Samples that are initially positive require a secondary check.
Should a sample test positive in Screening, additional hair is taken from the original batch and readied for Extraction. This stage involves isolating drugs from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most complex method to carry out.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation when necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the accreditation per ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the test itself evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
In Fayette, WI, hair follicle testing proves superior to urine tests. Its benefits include a more extended detection window offering comprehensive substance history insights and accuracy that traditional urine tests may lack. Employers who adopt hair testing appreciate the strengthened reliability and data integrity, embracing this modern method over conventional urine analysis.
Extended Detection Window
Employers in Fayette, WI, find value in hair follicle testing due to its ability to detect drug usage over a span of up to 90 days. This extended detection window furnishes employers with a thorough understanding of an individual's drug history, enhancing decision-making in hiring and employee monitoring processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
In Fayette, WI, hair follicle tests are renowned for minimizing the possibility of tampering. These assessments significantly lower sample adulteration risks, delivering results that are both reliable and indisputable, thereby ensuring the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations
With our numerous testing centers nationwide, including those in Fayette, WI, accessing drug testing services is straightforward and convenient. Our expansive network simplifies the process for individuals requiring quick, seamless, and stress-free testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process
Fayette, WI residents can benefit from a straightforward and confidential hair follicle testing process. From ordering the test to collecting samples and receiving results, each step is crafted to ensure privacy and ease, addressing concerns related to personal data protection and service simplicity.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
In Fayette, WI, our competitive pricing structure and swift result delivery provide remarkable value. We cater to companies of all sizes, guaranteeing cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality and responsiveness of service.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Fayette, WI, the precision and efficiency of hair follicle drug tests stand out. These tests are lauded for their rapid turnaround times and exceptional capability in detecting substance use, representing a major advantage over conventional methods.
With high accuracy levels, these tests provide dependable results that help in maintaining a drug-free environment efficiently.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Fayette, WI, helps ensure compliance with workplace drug-free initiatives and provides peace of mind. This method reduces legal liabilities and bolsters workplace safety, establishing a secure and responsible working environment for employers and employees alike.