Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now widely recognized as an effective method for discovering drug and alcohol consumption. A record of drug and alcohol intake can be determined for several months by capturing biomarkers in the structure of the hair as it grows. Hair samples taken near the scalp can reveal patterns of usage for up to around 90 days. Collection of hair is straightforward, hard to modify, and convenient to transport.
A section of hair measuring 1.5 inches from approximately 200 strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) cut close to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is ideal for analysis and verification. For EtG testing, additional panels, or tests above 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the hair is suggested. In the absence of scalp hair, comparable body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain exclusively to scalp hair, whereas all other hair types (such as facial or axillary) are categorized as body hair.
Process Overview
The sequence of stages in the laboratory handling of a drug test includes Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the sample being accepted into a laboratory system, verifying proper sealing and shipment, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) at random, and finalizing additional data entry tasks that may not have been covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary rapid assessment for the presence of abused substances. While it is an economical approach to disregard drug use in most cases, a confirmed positive screen is necessary for legal acceptance. Samples that yield a preliminary positive in Screening must undergo follow-up Confirmation.
When Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower levels than those found in other testing techniques (such as urine or salivary analysis), which makes the hair drug screening process particularly challenging.
Verification of any positive Screening result is performed through methods like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples deemed presumptively positive undergo washing before Confirmation if needed. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation complies with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and meets ISO / IEC 17025 standards for accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests actually analyze the hair strand itself, not the follicle below the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sidney, NY
Hair testing outperforms traditional urine tests by providing far greater accuracy and reliability. While urine tests can detect drugs used in the last few days, hair tests provide a long-term view, capturing up to 90 days of drug use. In Sidney, NY, this accuracy makes hair testing the superior choice for employers and legal entities alike.
Extended Detection Window in Sidney, NY
Hair follicle testing stands out with its ability to reveal drug use over an extended timeframe, often up to 90 days. This extensive look is invaluable to employers in Sidney, NY, offering a complete perspective on an individual's substance use history, which is not achievable through short-term urine testing.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sidney, NY
The design of hair follicle tests mitigates the risk of tampering, yielding reliable and indisputable results. In Sidney, NY, the integrity of samples is preserved from collection to analysis, assuring stakeholders of the authenticity and accuracy of the results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sidney, NY
With a network of nationwide testing centers, including convenient locations in Sidney, NY, accessing hair follicle testing is fast and simple. This widespread availability ensures that testing services are hassle-free and accessible to everyone, anywhere.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sidney, NY
The process of ordering and undergoing hair follicle tests is straightforward and private. In Sidney, NY, individuals can trust that their privacy is protected, with an easy-to-follow procedure from test ordering to receiving results, ensuring confidentiality and peace of mind.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sidney, NY
Our competitive pricing models and quick turnaround times make our hair testing services an attractive option for businesses in Sidney, NY, of all sizes. Secure, efficient, and cost-effective testing solutions are our standard, providing excellent value.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sidney, NY
Hair follicle drug testing sets a high standard in terms of speed and precision. The detailed analysis ensures a high level of accuracy in identifying substance use, making it a preferred choice for those seeking reliable results quickly. In Sidney, NY, these tests are conducted efficiently, bringing peace of mind with every evaluation.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sidney, NY
Hair follicle testing aids employers in adhering to drug-free work policies, minimizing legal exposure and enhancing workplace safety. Utilizing this approach in Sidney, NY, ensures that organizations maintain compliance while fostering a secure and responsible work environment.
