Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing is widely recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers in the strands of hair as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal substance use over a span of roughly 3 months. Collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of about 200 strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp, produces 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for assessment and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or assays beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing. If head hair is inaccessible, a comparable quantity of body hair may be obtained. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses other types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The key phases in processing a drug test result in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample into the lab system, which involves confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any outstanding data entry not facilitated by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening constitutes an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a budget-friendly method to dismiss drug usage in most samples, a positive screening must be confirmed for court admissibility. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If Screening results are presumptively positive, additional hair is extracted from the sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a significantly reduced concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is considered the most challenging to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with presumptive positive results are cleansed prior to confirmation if necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often referred to as "hair follicle tests," this analysis actually examines the hair strand itself, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
In Union Springs, NY, hair follicle testing is a more effective solution compared to urine testing. This method offers more accurate detection and reliability, presenting superior advantages over traditional urine tests. The ability to detect substances over a longer period and its resistance to tampering make hair testing the preferred choice for many institutions over urine testing, providing peace of mind.
Hair follicle testing in Union Springs, NY offers an extensive detection window, evaluating drug use for up to 90 days. This long timeframe provides employers with a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance history, affording them a more detailed view compared to alternative methods. This expanded window aids in making informed employment decisions regarding substance use.
In Union Springs, NY, hair follicle drug tests dramatically decrease the chances of sample tampering. This level of security ensures test results are reliable and beyond dispute. The hair test's tamper-resistant nature makes it ideal for accurate, trustworthy drug testing, providing confidence in the results obtained, unlike traditional testing methods which can be more easily manipulated.
With testing locations nationwide, including Union Springs, NY, accessing accredited hair follicle testing is both fast and convenient. Our extensive network of centers ensures easy availability and minimal hassle, simplifying the testing process for all clients. This wide-reaching accessibility guarantees that testing needs are met efficiently and promptly, no matter the location.
Ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests in Union Springs, NY is a straightforward and confidential process. We prioritize privacy and ease of use, making it simple for clients to manage their testing needs without concerns. Our user-friendly procedures ensure that confidentiality and simplicity are maintained throughout the testing process.
In Union Springs, NY, our competitive pricing and fast turnaround for hair follicle testing offer exceptional value. We provide affordable solutions aligned with quick results, beneficial for companies of varying sizes. This balance of cost-effectiveness and rapid processing supports businesses in making informed, cost-conscious decisions efficiently.
Hair follicle drug testing in Union Springs, NY is valued for its precision and swift results. This method quickly detects substance use with a high degree of accuracy, ensuring reliable outcomes. Businesses and organizations benefit from the speed and accuracy of hair tests, as they provide clear and trustworthy data to inform decision-making without undue delays, enhancing the testing process.
Employers in Union Springs, NY find peace of mind through hair follicle testing due to its compliance with drug-free policies in the workplace. This testing method helps mitigate legal risks and enhances the safety culture at work by offering undeniable proof of sobriety over an extended period, supporting a safe and compliant environment.
