What it is, How it works

Hair sampling is recognized as an effective methodology for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The nature of hair allows a prolonged history to be captured, retaining biomarkers inside the hair's fiber as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can provide information covering a timeframe up to roughly three months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair sampling is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.

Collecting a 1.5-inch section comprising about 200 hairs (approximately resembling the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, it is advisable to increase the collected specimen to 150mg. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement. If head hair is unavailable, an equivalent body hair sample may be taken. Referring to head hair implies scalp hair only, while body hair includes all other hair varieties (face, armpit, etc.).

Process Overview

The essential procedures in the lab processing of drug test samples encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This stage ensures the sample was duly sealed and sent, allocates a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performs any necessary data input not provided via an electronic chain of custody.

Screening performs a preliminary evaluation for substances of abuse. Though a budget-friendly method to exclude drug usage in most samples, any positive screening result mandates additional verification for court acceptance. Specimens with a positive result at Screening need further confirmation.

If Screening results are positive, additional hair from the initial sample is utilized for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair — which happens at a much lower concentration than with other methods such as urine or oral tests — making hair drug tests particularly challenging.

Verification of any positive screening is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS processes. Before Confirmation, presumptive positives undergo necessary washing. The laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair categorization and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Extended detection period: Hair drug screening can identify drug use for as long as 90 days, surpassing the shorter detection windows of urine tests.
High tamper resistance: Cheating a hair drug test is notably difficult, enhancing result reliability.
Return historical usage patterns: It offers insights into patterns of drug use over time, rather than only recent use.

Limitations:

Detection delay: There is a delay of about 5-7 days before drugs can be traced in hair.
Price: Hair drug testing tends to be pricier than alternative drug test methods.
Result variability: Factors such as hair pigmentation and personal hair growth rates can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair shaft and not the root beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Willcox, AZ
Discover how hair analysis transcends the more traditional urine testing methods in highlighting substance use. With remarkable detection accuracy and reliability, hair tests present a substantive advantage in Willcox, AZ, offering heightened detection capabilities. This advanced method surpasses older techniques, thereby making it a superior choice for precise substance monitoring.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Willcox, AZ
Hair follicle tests offer a vast window for detecting drug use, reaching up to 90 days, providing a thorough account of an applicant or employee's substance involvement. Employers in Willcox gain a comprehensive perspective, ensuring informed decision-making. This extended period stands as a significant benefit over shorter-term detection measures, enabling a clearer understanding of an individual's history.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Willcox, AZ
Hair follicle testing significantly diminishes the likelihood of sample tampering, delivering results that are both credible and difficult to dispute. Employers and authorities in Willcox can place their confidence in the authenticity of each test, offering assurance against fraudulent activity and ensuring uncompromised accuracy in outcomes, safeguarding both process integrity and objective evaluation.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Willcox, AZ
Benefit from our extensive network of nationwide testing centers, ensuring swift, convenient access to services right in Willcox. This broad availability supports quick and hassle-free testing, assisting individuals and businesses alike. Our reach guarantees that testing is both accessible and efficient, alleviating logistical concerns and facilitating easy service procurement.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Willcox, AZ
Our process for ordering, conducting, and obtaining results from hair follicle tests in Willcox is streamlined and discreet. This approach addresses privacy concerns efficiently while maintaining a user-friendly experience. Stakeholders can trust that their information is handled with the utmost confidentiality, turning apprehension into assurance, through an easy and private system.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Willcox, AZ
Enjoy competitive pricing structures coupled with swift result delivery, ensuring exceptional value. Businesses in Willcox benefit by receiving reliable outcomes without financial strain. Our commitment to rapid turnaround times offers peace of mind, supporting organizations of all sizes in maintaining productive operations while effectively managing resources in their drug testing practices.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Willcox, AZ
Experience the remarkable precision and efficiency of hair follicle drug tests in Willcox. These tests not only deliver quick outcomes but also offer unparalleled accuracy in detecting substance use. Their robust ability to provide reliable insights makes them a preferred choice for those seeking swift and trustworthy results, ensuring you stay informed and assured.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Willcox, AZ
Implementing hair follicle testing helps ensure that companies adhere to drug-free workplace criteria, mitigating legal liabilities and boosting safety. Willcox employers benefit from the tranquil assurance that comes with compliance, minimizing risks, enhancing productivity, and fostering a safer environment for all employees. This proactive approach is invaluable for corporate security and employee well-being.