Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Sedalia, CO

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a long-term record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When taken from near the scalp, hair can provide up to a 3-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. It’s easy to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and straightforward to send off.

A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 hair strands (similar to the width of a #2 pencil) near the scalp will yield approximately 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for both screening and confirmation. For tests related to EtG, additional screenings, and those beyond 10 panels, it's advisable to use 150mg of hair. It's best to weigh the sample on a jeweler's scale. If no scalp hair is available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" includes all other types, such as facial and axillary hair.

Process Overview

The lab processing of a drug test involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the first step, where a sample is logged into the laboratory’s system. This process ensures the sample was securely sealed and delivered, assigns it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry overlooked by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides an initial, quick assessment for substances of abuse. While this stage is cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most cases, a positive result requires confirmation before it can be legally valid. Each sample that tests positive in Screening needs further Confirmation.

If the Screening stage indicates a sample is positive, additional hair is extracted from the existing collection for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from the hair at much lower levels compared to other methods (e.g., urine, oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most intricate process to conduct.

GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques confirm any positive screening outcomes. All samples that test presumptively positive undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire transition from Accessioning through to Confirmation is conducted under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and accredited per ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can trace drug use up to 90 days, compared to the shorter detection period of urine tests.
• Cheating is difficult: It’s challenging to tamper with a hair drug test, ensuring more reliable results.
• Shows usage patterns: They reveal drug patterns over time rather than just recent use.

Limitations:

• Delayed detection: Drugs become detectable in hair around 5-7 days after use.
• Expense: Generally, hair drug tests cost more than other methods.
• Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual growth rates can influence the concentration of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: Although sometimes called "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sedalia, CO

• Hair tests offer a superior detection window compared to urine tests.
• The reliability of hair analysis surpasses traditional methods, ensuring accurate results.
• Employers gain confidence in the outcomes, aiding in workplace safety.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Sedalia, CO

• Hair follicle testing provides a comprehensive detection window of up to 90 days.
• This extensive period allows employers to gain insight into an individual's substance usage history.
• Such information is vital for making informed employment decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sedalia, CO

• Hair follicle tests are inherently resistant to tampering, ensuring integrity.
• The collection process is observed and eliminates the chance of adulteration.
• Reliable results instill trust and eliminate doubts of manipulation.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sedalia, CO

• Our extensive network of testing centers simplifies access to services.
• Employers and individuals benefit from convenient and hassle-free locations.
• Quality testing is within reach, ensuring swift and efficient service.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Sedalia, CO

• The process for ordering and conducting tests is straightforward.
• Privacy is maintained at every stage, from sample collection to results retrieval.
• Clients can be assured of a confidential and user-friendly experience.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sedalia, CO

• We offer competitive pricing structures for businesses of all sizes.
• Quick turnaround times ensure timely results and decisions.
• Value and efficiency go hand-in-hand, benefiting employers substantially.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sedalia, CO

• Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and quick outcomes.
• The advanced technology used ensures a high level of accuracy in detecting a wide range of substances.
• With results available promptly, employers can make informed decisions with ease.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sedalia, CO

• Hair testing ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies.
• It helps in mitigating legal risks and enhancing safety standards.
• Employers experience an increase in peace of mind and operational integrity.

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