Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strands as they grow. When taken near the scalp, hair allows for detection of alcohol and drugs for up to about three months. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable in thickness to a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, optimal for testing and verification. For EtG tests, additional panels above 10, or specialized testing, 150mg of the sample is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing is recommended. If scalp hair is not available, a similar amount of body hair can be obtained. Note that when referring to head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to initially entering a sample into the lab’s system. This step ensures the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any needed data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial expeditious assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive outcome must be confirmed to be legally valid. Any samples testing likely positive in Screening need corroboration through a secondary confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptively positive result, additional hair is sourced from the original sample for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at a considerably lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most complex methodology to execute.
The Confirmation of any positive result from Screening is accomplished using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Every presumptive positive sample is cleaned prior to confirmation as required. The entire lab workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes examination under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and certification to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the evaluation is conducted on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Provo, AR
Employers in Provo, AR, now prefer hair follicle tests over traditional urine tests due to their superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests provide a longer detection window, capturing a full 90-day history, which is far more extensive than urine tests. The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing ensures that results are credible and virtually impossible to manipulate.
Extended Detection Window in Provo, AR
Hair follicle testing provides an extensive history, detecting drug use for up to 90 days. This long detection window gives employers a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use history. By analyzing hair samples, employers gain a thorough overview of potential drug use over several months, allowing for more informed decision-making regarding employment and safety in the workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Provo, AR
Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration due to their tamper-resistant nature. Unlike other testing methods, hair samples are difficult to manipulate, ensuring that the test results are reliable and valid. This characteristic makes hair testing an ideal choice for employers and legal entities who require unquestionable results, maintaining the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Provo, AR
Our vast network of nationwide testing centers, including local facilities in Provo, AR, offers unparalleled convenience. These locations provide quick, easy, and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. With our extensive reach, scheduling a test becomes straightforward, allowing individuals and employers to access testing services without delay and at their convenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Provo, AR
The process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential, catering to individuals concerned about privacy. Our simple procedure ensures that ordering, taking, and receiving results is hassle-free, addressing privacy concerns while maintaining ease of use. Confidentiality is prioritized at every step, providing clients with the assurance that their information remains secure and protected.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Provo, AR
Hair follicle testing is not only reliable but also competitively priced, providing excellent value for companies of any size. Our fast turnaround times ensure that results are delivered quickly, reducing waiting periods. By offering an affordable testing option with swift results, businesses can confidently make informed decisions while managing costs effectively.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Provo, AR
Hair follicle drug testing offers swift and precise results, making it an ideal choice for identifying substance use. This test is known for its unparalleled accuracy, quickly detecting a wide range of drugs and ensuring reliable outcomes every time. With advanced technology, our tests confirm accuracy and speed, providing peace of mind for both employers and individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Provo, AR
Hair follicle testing supports employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies, ultimately fostering a safer and more productive work environment. By opting for this testing method, employers can minimize legal risks associated with drug use among employees, ensuring adherence to regulations while promoting peace of mind and security.
