Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has evolved into a highly effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of substance use by trapping biomarkers within the fibers of the emerging hair strand. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use for a period of up to three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment made up of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) taken nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen weight. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a comparable quantity of body hair may be used. In this context, head hair refers exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The principal phases in a drug test's laboratory process include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the laboratory’s system. This step involves confirming the sample is securely sealed and shipped correctly, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any remaining data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary evaluation for substances of abuse. While it is a cost-efficient way to dismiss drug presence in most samples, results showing positive require confirmation for legal acceptance. Samples that yield a positive indicator during Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
Should a sample exhibit a positive result during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair in concentrations significantly lower than those in alternative methods such as urine or oral fluid, thus making hair drug testing particularly challenging.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are used to confirm any positive screening outcomes. Any samples that presumptively test positive undergo washing prior to confirmation, as needed. The end-to-end laboratory process from Accessioning through to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in North Fond du Lac, WI Hair follicle testing offers numerous benefits over traditional urine tests. The detection accuracy and reliability of hair tests are superior, as they can identify drug use over a prolonged period, unlike urine tests which detect recent use. This advantage makes hair testing a preferred choice for many organizations aiming for comprehensive screening.
Extended Detection Window in North Fond du Lac, WI One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use for up to 90 days. This extended detection window provides employers with a detailed overview of an individual's substance history, enhancing awareness and facilitating better-informed decisions regarding hiring and employee management.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in North Fond du Lac, WI Hair follicle tests are significantly resistant to tampering compared to other methods. The process involves a secured, observed collection which minimizes the risk of sample adulteration. This ensures that the results are both reliable and irrefutable, providing peace of mind with unquestionable accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in North Fond du Lac, WI Our nationwide network of testing centers, including in North Fond du Lac, WI, ensures easy access to our services. With local and convenient locations, we enable quick and hassle-free testing, facilitating a seamless experience for individuals and businesses requiring drug testing solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in North Fond du Lac, WI The process for ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is designed to be straightforward and secure. Our commitment to confidentiality ensures that every individual's privacy is respected throughout, providing a discreet and effortless testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in North Fond du Lac, WI Our competitive pricing structures and fast turnaround times offer businesses excellent value. Regardless of company size, our services provide efficient and economical options, delivering rapid results that keep your operations running smoothly and your workforce well-informed.
Fast and Precise Results in North Fond du Lac, WI Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their ability to rapidly deliver highly accurate results. This swift process enables employers and individuals to make informed decisions based on reliable data, ensuring comprehensive screening. With high levels of sensitivity, hair testing offers unmatched precision in detecting substance use over other testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in North Fond du Lac, WI Utilizing hair follicle testing aids employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This not only mitigates legal risks but also promotes workplace safety. By ensuring that employees adhere to a no-drug policy, businesses can foster a secure and productive environment.
