Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By trapping biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows, hair provides an extended history of substance use. Collected near the scalp, it offers a detection span of up to 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to adulterate, and simple to transport.
Acquiring a 1.5-inch length of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal sample size for testing and verification. For EtG, additional panels, and/or tests above 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing. If scalp hair can't be obtained, an equivalent amount of body hair is acceptable. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The principal steps in laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. It involves checking that the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as the preliminary rapid assessment for drug presence. Although it is a cost-effective means to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive result from Screening must be confirmed to be permissible in court. Samples that preliminarily test positive require verification.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen to prepare for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are separated from hair at a much lower concentration than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), explaining the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is done via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives undergo washing as necessary before confirmation. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the whole laboratory process is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Referred to as "hair follicle tests", the examination actually analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair Follicle Testing vs. Urine Testing in Plainfield, IA
Compared to traditional urine testing, hair follicle tests provide several advantages. They offer a superior detection period, presenting an edge in reliability and prevention of falsified results.
Extended Detection Window in Plainfield, IA
Unlike other methodologies, hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window, capturing evidence of drug use habits over 90 days. This prolonged insight is invaluable for employers assessing an individual's substance history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Plainfield, IA
Hair follicle tests present an almost impenetrable solution to sample tampering. Stringent collection methods and inspection processes yield unequivocal results, essential for trustworthy substance monitoring.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Plainfield, IA
Our seamless network of testing facilities allows for easy access wherever needed. Nationwide and local centers facilitate a quick, effortless process for individuals requiring testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Plainfield, IA
Ordering and undertaking the hair drug test is designed to be simple and discreet. Respect for privacy is paramount, assuring individuals a seamless process from start to finish without concerns of confidentiality being compromised.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Plainfield, IA
With competitive pricing and rapid result delivery, our services hold great value for businesses of different scales. Our structure strategically meets financial constraints while providing peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, Reliable Results in Plainfield, IA
Hair follicle drug tests deliver a remarkable level of precision in identifying substance use. With a focus on speed and accuracy, individuals can rely on these tests to offer prompt outcomes while maintaining high standards of reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind in Plainfield, IA
Implementing hair follicle testing within workplaces promotes alignment with drug-free policies. It offers employers peace of mind and reduces legal risks, enhancing the overall safety environment.
