Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is widely regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The structure of hair allows for a prolonged history of substance use by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer up to a roughly 3-month period for detecting alcohol and substances. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section comprising around 200 hair strands (resembling the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is ideal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advisable. It is recommended to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, comparable body hair may be used. When referencing head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair; body hair covers all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps for laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of integrating a sample into a lab’s system. This involves ensuring the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an essential preliminary check for drugs of abuse. While it's a cost-effective method for ruling out drug usage in most samples, a positive screen requires a confirmation for legality in court. Any samples with positive preliminary screens necessitate further verification.
If preliminary results are positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. In this step, drugs are extracted from hair with greater sensitivity than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair screening particularly challenging to administer.
Confirming a positive result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. All samples with presumptive positives are cleaned prior to confirmation if needed. The entire laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and follows ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the skin.
In Manning, IA, hair follicle testing surpasses urine testing in several noteworthy ways. Longer detection windows provide a broader understanding of an individual’s substance use history. With results that cover up to 90 days, the insights gained are unmatched by traditional urine exams.
Employers in Manning, IA, find great value in the extended detection window offered by hair follicle testing. Unlike other methods, this test can highlight drug use over a stretched period of up to 90 days. Such an expansive scope equips employers with the data needed to make informed hiring decisions.
An extended detection window allows organizations to identify long-term substance abuse patterns, protecting the workplace from potential risks associated with drug use.
Ensuring the integrity of tests is a fundamental aspect of hair follicle testing in Manning, IA. This method significantly minimizes the chances of tampering, offering organizations reliable conclusions. Sample security is heightened through intrinsic resistance to adulteration.
The ability to circumvent tampering attempts makes hair tests a preferred choice for employers eager to maintain a trustworthy drug testing protocol.
With widespread accessibility, our testing centers in Manning, IA, afford tremendous convenience for hair follicle testing. Our nationwide reach means that individuals can access testing services with utmost ease, anytime necessary.
Simplicity and confidentiality are hallmarks of our hair follicle testing process in Manning, IA. From the moment a test is ordered to the point results are delivered, every stage is designed to be user-friendly and discreet.
With an emphasis on protecting privacy, individuals are assured that their test results remain confidential. Streamlined procedures further facilitate a stress-free testing experience for all participants.
Our hair follicle testing services in Manning, IA, boast competitive pricing that does not compromise on quality. Companies benefit from affordable solutions alongside swift turnaround times, enhancing overall value.
Quick delivery of results plays a crucial role in decision-making for employers. By keeping costs reasonable, we ensure that businesses of all sizes can access high-quality testing without financial strain.
Hair follicle testing in Manning, IA, stands as a premier method for acquiring quick and accurate results. Leveraging advanced technology, these tests efficiently detect substance use with a higher degree of accuracy. Precision is at the core of hair testing, offering reliable assessments that actively contribute to maintaining workplace safety.
Speed is another strong suit of hair follicle tests. While ensuring accuracy is never compromised, results are delivered swiftly. This is crucial for employers needing timely information for decision-making processes.
Employers in Manning, IA, gain peace of mind knowing that hair follicle testing aids in adhering to workplace drug-free policies. This method helps reduce legal risks by ensuring compliance with established safety standards and guidelines. Effective screening processes are vital for maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
By choosing hair tests, organizations champion a proactive stance toward enhanced employee welfare and minimized liabilities.