Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a highly effective method for detecting drug and alcohol use. Hair captures biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows, providing a comprehensive history of substance use. When sourced from the scalp, hair offers a detection window of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect, challenging to adulterate, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 hair strands (around the size of a #2 pencil) from the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. The specimen should be weighed using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, a similar quantity of body hair is an alternative. When referring to head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of a drug test result includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is processed into a laboratory’s system. This step ensures proper sealing and shipping of samples, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and includes any missing manual data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening provides a preliminary assessment for drug abuse. It is an economical method to dismiss drug use in most samples; however, a positive result in Screening requires confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Presumptive positive results require secondary confirmation.
For a presumptively positive sample in Screening, additional hair is taken from the original specimen and subjected to Extraction. During this process, drugs are extracted at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is more challenging to conduct.
Confirmation for any positive screening involves techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation as necessary. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests," the testing actually assesses the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Vesper, WI
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, the former stands out for its superior detection capabilities. Hair tests offer a broader detection window, capturing a wider range of substances over longer periods. This method is unmatched in reliability and accuracy, making it the preferred choice for comprehensive drug use assessments.
Extended Detection Window in Vesper, WI
Hair follicle testing excels in offering an extended detection window, tracing substance use for up to 90 days. This comprehensive scope allows employers to gain a detailed insight into an applicant's or employee's substance history, ensuring informed hiring decisions and maintaining workplace safety standards.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Vesper, WI
Hair follicle tests are designed to minimize the risk of tampering, ensuring that the results are reliable and unambiguous. This method's inherent resistance to adulteration guarantees that the integrity of the sample remains intact, offering peace of mind to those who rely on its findings for critical decisions.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Vesper, WI
Our widespread network of testing centers ensures that accessing hair follicle testing services is both convenient and efficient. With numerous locations nationwide, including Vesper, WI, individuals can expect seamless and stress-free testing experiences without unnecessary delays.
Simple, Confidential Process in Vesper, WI
The hair follicle testing process is designed for simplicity and confidentiality, ensuring individuals' privacy at every stage. From ordering to testing and receiving results, each step is straightforward and discreet, addressing any concerns about ease of use and maintaining privacy protections rigorously.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Vesper, WI
Our competitive pricing and swift turnaround times stand out, providing exceptional value. This efficient service is pivotal for companies of all sizes, ensuring timely access to critical results without breaking the bank. The cost-effectiveness of our services pairs with their speed, delivering excellent peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Vesper, WI
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision in identifying substance use, allowing for rapid and dependable results. Their enhanced accuracy makes them a leading choice for those in need of meticulous testing. This advanced method is essential for ensuring individuals' compliance with substance regulations and fostering a safer environment.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Vesper, WI
Employing hair follicle testing supports compliance with workplace drug-free policies, curtailing legal risks and bolstering workplace security. This method gives employers the assurance that their drug testing procedures are robust and reliable, facilitating a safer and more productive environment.
