Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective means for detecting substance use, including drugs and alcohol. Hair serves as a long-term record of alcohol and other drug use by embedding markers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When clipped close to the scalp, hair offers up to roughly a 3-month detection period for alcohol and other substances. Hair is easy to collect, less prone to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches comprising around 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is suggested. Using a jeweler's scale is advised for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it refers specifically to scalp hair. Body hair pertains to all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages involved in laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of integrating a sample into a lab's system. This process involves verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening encompasses an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient approach to eliminate drug use for most samples, a positive screening result must be verified for legal admissibility. Any samples that test positive in Screening require a supplementary confirmation.
If a sample tests positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is drawn from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), presenting a challenge for hair drug analysis methodology.
Confirmation for any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that test positive preliminarily undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory workflow from Accessioning through Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly misnamed as "hair follicle tests", this method actually examines the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Comparing Hair vs. Urine Testing
The advantages of hair follicle tests over traditional urine tests are clear. Hair tests provide a longer detection window and are more difficult to manipulate, ensuring more accurate and reliable results. Employers and courts in Ranchester, WY, increasingly opt for hair testing when zero-tolerance policies are in place.
Extended Detection Period
Hair follicle testing allows for a much longer detection timeframe, up to 90 days. This offers employers a comprehensive understanding of an applicant or employee's drug use history, enhancing the evaluation of their substance use behavior compared to shorter-term assessments such as urine tests.
Secure and Tamper-Resistant
Hair follicle tests are highly resistant to tampering, providing unquestionable results. The observed collection method and the nature of the test itself make it challenging to alter the samples, significantly reducing the risk of sample adulteration.
Convenient Testing Locations
With testing centers nationwide, including those in Ranchester, WY, accessing drug testing services is hassle-free. Our widespread locations ensure that testing is convenient and accessible, providing easy and quick access to needed resources without the complexity.
Confidential and Simple Process
The hair follicle test process is straightforward and respects individual privacy. From ordering the test to receiving the results, the method is designed for ease of use, making the entire experience discreet and user-friendly for all clients.
Cost-Effective and Efficient
Our hair follicle testing services in Ranchester, WY are competitively priced while providing rapid turnaround times. This makes our offerings accessible to companies of all sizes, ensuring you receive excellent value without compromising on speed or quality.
Fast and Precise Testing in Ranchester
Hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision in detecting substance use. They ensure quick and accurate outcomes, providing reliable results more effectively than other testing methods. This speed and precision make them an ideal choice for those seeking fast, trustworthy data on drug use.
Ensuring Compliance and Peace of Mind
For employers in Ranchester, WY, hair follicle testing aids in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. By choosing this method, employers can minimize legal risks, bolster workplace safety, and ensure a healthier environment for all employees.
