Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of hair, it provides a long-term history of substance use. When taken near the scalp, hair analysis can offer a detection period of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. It's also easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample, approximately 200 strands of hair (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) from the scalp, yields 100mg, an optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-on tests, and tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing. If scalp hair isn't available, an equal quantity of body hair may be used. Reference to head hair specifically pertains to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result is made up of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step where a sample enters the laboratory system. This step ensures the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data entry that's missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Though it is cost-effective for excluding drug use on most samples, a positive screen needs confirmation to hold up in court. Any samples that show presumptive positives in Screening require follow-up confirmation.
For samples with presumptive positives in Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than in alternative methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening particularly intricate.
Confirmation of positive screening results is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Every presumptive positive sample is washed before confirmation, if necessary. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rib Falls, WI
Hair testing offers advantages not seen in urine tests, particularly in terms of detection length and reliability. The ability to detect substance use over a protracted period significantly curtails the chances of tampering, making it superior in accuracy and perseverance.
Extended Detection Window in Rib Falls, WI
The hair follicle test is ideal for employers keen on a thorough evaluation of an applicant's drug history. Its capability to expose drug usage over an extensive detection window—up to 90 days—provides a comprehensive picture of an individual's substance interactions, ensuring informed hiring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rib Falls, WI
Hair follicle tests protect against sample adulteration effectively, offering genuine results that withstand scrutiny. The nature of this testing method inherently reduces opportunities for tampering, lending confidence to employers and courts in the conclusions drawn from test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rib Falls, WI
Our expansive network of nationwide testing centers guarantees you swift and straightforward access to testing services. This convenience extends to local venues in Rib Falls, ensuring you experience seamless service delivery wherever you are.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rib Falls, WI
The process of securing, undergoing, and obtaining results from hair follicle tests is both straightforward and confidential. Your privacy is paramount, and our streamlined procedures are designed to be user-friendly, addressing any concerns related to discretion and ease.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rib Falls, WI
Our competitive pricing models and rapid turnaround times provide unmatched value, catering to companies of all scales. We make affordability and efficiency priorities, ensuring you receive exceptional service without the high costs associated with other options.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rib Falls, WI
Hair follicle drug tests are unmatched in delivering rapid results combined with high precision in identifying substance use. By selecting this method, you benefit from the assurance of accurate detections, all facilitated at a remarkable pace, putting it ahead of more conventional testing techniques.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rib Falls, WI
Embrace hair follicle testing as part of your company's drug-free policy compliance strategy. This method minimizes legal vulnerabilities and enhances safety, fostering a culture of responsibility and assurance within the workplace.
