Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a significant means for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures prolonged histories of substances by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand fibers as they grow. When cut close to the scalp, hair offers a detection range of up to about 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is uncomplicated, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp amounts to 100mg, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advisable. We recommend weighing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, it refers solely to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages within the lab process for a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the sample’s entry into the lab’s system. It verifies the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes additional data entry if not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for drug presence. Though cost-efficient for negating drug usage in most samples, a positive screen demands confirmation for court use. Any samples indicated as presumptively positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
When a sample shows presumptively positive in Screening, more hair is extracted from the initial specimen for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are removed from hair at concentrations lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis particularly challenging.
Confirmation of a positive screen result is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples assumed positive are washed before confirmation if required. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is inspected under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in High Bridge, WI
Hair follicle testing provides unmatched accuracy compared to urine tests. While urine tests detect recent substance use, hair tests offer a broader detection range, identifying drug usage over an extended period. This makes them particularly effective for detecting chronic use rather than recent episodes, ensuring a reliable overview.
Another benefit of hair testing over urine tests is the difficulty in adulterating the sample. While urine samples might be subjected to tampering, hair samples are far more challenging to alter, ensuring the authenticity of the results and reinforcing the integrity of the testing process.
Extended Detection Window in High Bridge, WI
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its extended detection period, spanning up to 90 days. This long-term view allows employers to gain insights into an individual’s substance use history rather than a short window, typical of other tests like urine sampling.
This extended detection period provides a more comprehensive picture, making it ideal for pre-employment screenings, routine checks, or monitoring ongoing compliance with drug policies. By understanding past usage, employers can make better-informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in High Bridge, WI
Hair follicle tests offer a tamper-resistant solution, minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. Unlike other methods, where samples might be susceptible to alterations, the nature of hair testing ensures that results remain consistent and dependable, providing trustworthy outcomes.
The integrity of hair samples stands strong even in challenging environments. This robustness means that the results are virtually unquestionable, ensuring stakeholders confidently rely on the data and maintain a fair testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in High Bridge, WI
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures easy access to hair follicle testing nationwide, including in High Bridge, WI. This accessibility guarantees quick service without the inconvenience of traveling long distances.
Moreover, the convenience of having local testing facilities means reduced downtime for employees and faster processing times. The straightforward logistics enhance the overall experience, ensuring stakeholders receive timely and efficient service.
Simple, Confidential Process in High Bridge, WI
The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is designed to be straightforward and discreet. This streamlined approach promotes ease of use, ensuring stakeholders can navigate the process with minimal hassle.
Confidentiality is paramount, and our testing services prioritize privacy, providing reassurance to all parties involved. The simple, secure method helps maintain trust and confidence while respecting individual privacy concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in High Bridge, WI
Our competitive pricing structure makes hair follicle testing accessible, offering excellent value to businesses of all sizes. By combining affordability with fast turnaround times, we deliver exceptional service with cost-effective solutions.
Fast processing ensures timely results, supporting prompt decision-making and maintaining operational efficiency. This blend of cost savings and rapid analysis keeps us a preferred choice for organizations seeking reliable testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in High Bridge, WI
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their swift and precise results. Unlike other testing methods that might take longer, hair tests efficiently detect substance use with high accuracy. This reliability ensures that employers and other stakeholders receive accurate data, enabling informed decision-making.
Furthermore, the precision offered by hair testing means fewer false positives. As a result, organizations can have confidence in the results, significantly reducing potential legal challenges or disputes arising from inaccuracies common in other testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in High Bridge, WI
Hair follicle testing helps employers maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies, reducing potential legal liabilities. By choosing this method, businesses ensure they adhere to regulations while promoting a safer work environment.
Additionally, the reliability of hair testing offers peace of mind, knowing that the organization's testing procedures hold up to scrutiny and align with best practices. This trusted methodology contributes to a healthier, more productive workforce.
