Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Utilizing hair testing has become recognized as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a repository for a prolonged history of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the structure of the hair as it grows. When harvested near the scalp, hair can offer nearly a 3-month period for detecting alcohol and drug use. The collection process is straightforward, presents challenges for tampering, and is convenient to transport.
A segment measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (akin to the size of a #2 pencil) from the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the recommended amount for thorough screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or analyses exceeding 10 panels, it is suggested that 150mg of the hair specimen be used. It is advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be utilized. The term "head hair" specifically pertains to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types of hair (such as facial or axillary).
Process Overview
The process for laboratory handling of drug test outcomes includes four pivotal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the laboratory's system, ensuring it was properly sealed and shipped. This step also involves assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) and handling any additional data entry not covered by an automated chain of custody system.
The Screening phase provides a preliminary rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an efficient means to exclude drug use for most samples, a positive result requires further confirmation to hold in legal settings. Any samples that appear positive during Screening must undergo a subsequent confirmation step.
Should a sample test positive in the Screening stage, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In this step, drugs are isolated from hair at a considerably lower concentration compared to other testing methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why conducting hair drug testing is considerably challenging.
The Confirmation phase for any positive Screening result utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Samples that initially test positive are cleansed before confirmation, as needed. The entire laboratory procedure spans from Accessioning to Confirmation and is subjected to review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and in accordance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests," these tests actually assess the hair strands, not the follicles beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bradley, IL
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing in Bradley offers superior detection accuracy and reliability. The longer detection window allows for better monitoring of substance use over time, reducing reliance on more frequent testing.
In addition, hair tests eliminate the common cheating methods associated with urine tests, making them a preferred choice for organizations looking to uphold drug-free policies with greater certainty.
Extended Detection Window in Bradley, IL
Hair follicle testing in Bradley extends the detection window up to 90 days, giving employers a clearer picture of an individual's substance use history. This comprehensive view aids in better employment decisions and promotes a drug-free workplace environment.
This extended period covers a wide range of substance uses, highlighting patterns that shorter detection windows might miss, thus enabling more informed choice regarding staffing and compliance policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bradley, IL
Hair follicle drug tests in Bradley are designed to be tamper-resistant, significantly mitigating the risk of sample adulteration. This ensures that the results are both reliable and unquestionable, protecting the integrity of the testing process.
With observed collection procedures, these tests safeguard against the tricks commonly used to alter urine test results, providing employers with a trustworthy alternative for maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bradley, IL
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient access to nationwide and local testing centers in Bradley, ensuring quick, hassle-free testing services. This network allows individuals and businesses to undergo testing with minimal disruption.
Quick access to facilities means reduced downtime for employees and expedited results, thus facilitating smoother operations and compliance with employment regulations at various locations.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bradley, IL
The hair follicle testing process in Bradley is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering tests to receiving results, privacy is a priority, with straightforward procedures that respect individual confidentiality.
This simplicity makes the process accessible to everyone, while the assurance of confidentiality builds trust, encouraging more participants and ultimately aiding in comprehensive compliance and safety initiatives.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bradley, IL
Our competitive pricing structures in Bradley, combined with fast turnaround times, ensure excellent value for companies of all sizes. Hair follicle tests provide a cost-effective solution without compromising on speed or accuracy.
Fast processing means businesses can make timely decisions, reducing the risk of prolonged disruption while still maintaining budget constraints, offering a strategic edge in workforce management.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bradley, IL
Bradley's hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and speed, offering unparalleled accuracy in identifying substance use. Hair testing minimizes delays, granting results quickly and reliably ensuring that decisions based on these tests are founded on accurate data.
With hair testing, individuals and employers enjoy the assurance of highly detailed results, empowering informed decision-making for workplace safety and compliance.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bradley, IL
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Bradley helps employers ensure compliance with workplace drug-free policies, thereby reducing legal risks and enhancing safety. The peace of mind gained through reliable testing supports a healthier work environment.
This compliance not only meets legal standards but also boosts the company's reputation as a responsible and conscientious employer, attracting quality talent and fostering a culture of transparency.
