Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is widely recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures a historical timeline of alcohol and drug consumption by storing biomarkers within its growing fibers. When sampled close to the scalp, hair can offer a detection timeframe of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A hair specimen measuring 1.5 inches comprising about 200 strands (roughly equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests over 10 panels, it is advised to gather 150mg of the specimen. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair cannot be collected, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically means scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage where a sample is integrated into a laboratory’s system. This step involves confirming the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. While it is a cost-effective method to rule out drug usage in most samples, a positive result from Screening must be confirmed to be legally admissible. Any samples with presumptive positive results in Screening require secondary confirmation.
In cases where a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the sample for further processing in the Extraction phase. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is carried out via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicated as presumptive positive undergo a washing process before confirmation if needed. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being called "hair follicle tests," the test specifically examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Ridgeland, WI, hair testing offers advantages superior to traditional urine tests. The extended detection period enables identification of substance use months after intake. Hair testing's stringent collection process also guarantees results that are both reliable and accurate, providing peace of mind and eliminating doubts about test integrity.
With the ability to pinpoint drug use up to 90 days prior, hair follicle testing in Ridgeland, WI offers a broad view of an individual's substance history. Employers gain a more comprehensive understanding of a candidate or employee's past behavior, surpassing the narrow window offered by traditional urine tests.
Hair follicle tests in Ridgeland, WI are a robust defense against sample tampering. This testing method makes it exceedingly difficult to adulterate samples, ensuring that the results are trustworthy and beyond reproach. The integrity of each result is preserved, providing assurance to those relying on accurate data.
With nationwide and local centers in Ridgeland, WI, Accredited Drug Testing offers unmatched convenience. Our readily accessible locations ensure that you can quickly and easily partake in testing services without hassle, catering to both local needs and those operating on a broader scale.
The process of hair follicle testing in Ridgeland, WI is both simple and confidential. Ordering, participating in, and receiving results is straightforward, designed to address concerns about privacy and ease, ensuring that the focus remains on the testing's objectives rather than procedural complexity.
Accredited Drug Testing in Ridgeland, WI provides competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times. Our affordable services offer exceptional value, making reliable drug testing an accessible option for companies of any size, delivering results that are prompt and budget-friendly.
Hair follicle drug tests in Ridgeland, WI provide results that are both quick and precise. Their high accuracy in substance detection ensures that you receive results you can trust swiftly, without compromising on quality. The meticulous testing process ensures that each sample yields insights that are reliable and accurate.
For employers in Ridgeland, WI, hair follicle testing assures adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces potential legal liabilities and enhances safety, offering a profound sense of security and compliance, which is crucial in maintaining a productive and secure work environment.
