Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has established its role as a potent method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption, offering a long-term profile by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair's growing strand. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection timeframe of roughly up to 90 days for both alcohol and other drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample consisting of a 1.5-inch section of around 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the perfect amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and testing beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not an option, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. Reference to head hair pertains solely to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial sample processing within a lab's system. This step ensures that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out drug presence in most samples, a positive screen must be validated for court admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at a much lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a notably challenging procedure.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are washed prior to confirmation as needed. The whole laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated according to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly branded as "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing is Superior in Middletown, NJ
When comparing hair follicle testing to urine testing, the former stands out with its superior detection accuracy and reliability. Employers in Middletown, NJ, find confidence in hair testing as it vastly surpasses the limited window of urinary tests. The hair method provides a broader detection period, making it a reliable choice for ensuring workplace safety and compliance.
Extended Detection Window in Middletown, NJ
Unlike traditional tests, hair follicle analysis extends the detection window up to 90 days, presenting employers with a detailed view of an individual's substance use history. This method aids Middletown, NJ, businesses by offering comprehensive insights into candidate and employee behavior, contributing significantly to informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Middletown, NJ
Utilizing a hair follicle approach reduces risks of tampering significantly, as it's nearly impossible to adulterate. This reliability in Middletown, NJ, ensures test results remain unquestioned and valid, crucial for organizations adhering to strict drug-free policies and minimizing legal exposure.
Convenient Nationwide and Local Testing Locations in Middletown, NJ
Accredited Drug Testing boasts an expansive network of locations nationwide alongside local facilities in Middletown, NJ. This accessibility guarantees quick, hassle-free service for testing needs, thus ensuring businesses and individuals have seamless access to reliable drug testing anywhere, anytime.
Simple, Confidential Process in Middletown, NJ
With Accredited Drug Testing, the process remains simple and private, placing emphasis on customer ease and confidentiality. In Middletown, NJ, ordering, testing, and receiving results is straightforward and discreet, addressing concerns around privacy and simplifying the testing experience for all parties involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Middletown, NJ
Our drug testing services offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround times, ensuring companies in Middletown, NJ, receive excellent value for their investment. This efficient, cost-effective approach allows businesses of all sizes to maintain their commitments to safety and reliability without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Middletown, NJ
Hair follicle drug testing promises swift, precise outcomes. This method excels with its high accuracy in identifying substance use, offering results that companies and individuals can trust. In Middletown, NJ, this testing option ensures quick and dependable detection, facilitating informed decision-making and confident hiring processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Middletown, NJ
Hair follicle testing assures compliance with workplace drug policies, hence reducing legal liabilities and enhancing workplace safety. For Middletown, NJ employers, this means peace of mind, knowing that comprehensive testing underpins their zero-tolerance policies effectively and legally.
