Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has evolved into a significant method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within its strands as they grow. Hair, when trimmed near the scalp, enables a detection timeframe of roughly 90 days for alcohol and other drugs. Collection is straightforward, adulteration is relatively challenging, and shipping is uncomplicated.
An ideal sample comprises a 1.5-inch length of around 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness) nearest the scalp, providing 100mg for screening and confirmation. When testing for EtG, add-ons, or above 10 panels, it is advisable to use 150mg of hair. It's suggested to weigh the specimen with a jeweler’s scale. In instances where scalp hair cannot be used, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be utilized. "Head hair" strictly indicates scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The major steps in the laboratory examination of a drug test include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is prepared for the laboratory system. This phase verifies correct sealing and transport of the specimen, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data input absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary analysis to identify drug abuse. It provides a cost-efficient method to exclude drug usage from most samples; however, a positive screen needs verification to be legally valid. Samples with presumptively positive results necessitate secondary confirmation.
For presumptively positive samples identified in Screening, additional hair from the primary specimen is readied for Extraction. This process extracts drugs from hair at lower concentrations than other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid testing), which makes hair drug screening particularly challenging.
To confirm a positive screening outcome, GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques are employed. Samples with presumptive positive findings are washed appropriately before confirmation. The complete lab procedure, from Accessioning through Confirmation, adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself, not beneath the scalp on the hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Kinmundy, IL
Hair follicle testing provides superior detection accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. In Kinmundy, IL, this method has become increasingly popular due to its ability to offer a much broader detection window and less susceptibility to tampering. Employers and courts alike benefit from the in-depth assurance provided by hair testing over the more common urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Kinmundy, IL
Hair follicle testing allows for the detection of drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This extensive window gives employers in Kinmundy, IL a comprehensive overview, ensuring they have a clear understanding of an applicant or employee's substance history. Such insight is invaluable for making informed employment decisions and maintaining a safe working environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Kinmundy, IL
Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of sample tampering, providing reliable and unquestionable results. This method helps assure that the integrity of the sample is maintained, helping employers in Kinmundy, IL trust the results and make informed decisions backed by concrete and verifiable evidence.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Kinmundy, IL
Our nationwide network of testing centers offers unparalleled convenience, including local options in Kinmundy, IL. This ensures access to hassle-free and straightforward testing services, with minimal disruption to daily operations. Clients appreciate the ease of scheduling and conducting tests close to their location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Kinmundy, IL
The process of ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential in Kinmundy, IL. This simplicity ensures privacy and ease of use, addressing any concerns about the testing process. Individuals and companies can rely on our secure methods to maintain discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Kinmundy, IL
We offer competitive pricing structures and quick turnaround times in Kinmundy, IL. Our services provide excellent value, ensuring companies of all sizes can access quality drug testing without financial strain, while still maintaining peace of mind knowing results arrive swiftly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Kinmundy, IL
Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched precision and speed, making it the preferred choice in Kinmundy, IL. The accuracy in detecting substance use is considerably high, ensuring that the results are reliable and trustworthy. With rapid testing capabilities, organizations can remain confident in their hiring and compliance decision-making processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Kinmundy, IL
Employers in Kinmundy, IL can ensure compliance with workplace drug-free policies using hair follicle testing. This testing method reduces legal risks and enhances workplace safety, providing peace of mind to employers by ensuring that their workforce adheres to substance-free standards.
