What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a vital method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive timeline of drug and alcohol presence by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands' fibers as they grow. When samples are collected near the scalp, the detection period for alcohol and drugs can extend up to three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches with approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields about 100mg of hair, which is optimal for testing and validation. For EtG, supplementary tests, or tests beyond ten panels, a specimen amount of 150mg is suggested. It's advisable to use a jeweler’s scale to measure the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair can be obtained. In the context of head hair, "scalp hair" indicates hair from the scalp only. "Body hair" encompasses all other hair types (such as facial or axillary hair).

Process Overview

The four essential stages involved in laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the process of integrating a sample into a lab’s system. This step verifies the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening entails an initial rapid check for substances of abuse. While Screening is a cost-effective method to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive screening requires confirmation to be valid in court. Samples with an initial positive result in Screening necessitate a backup confirmation.

In cases of presumptive positive results during the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction process. Here, the drugs are isolated from the hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluids), which is why hair drug testing is one of the most complex methodologies.

Any positive results from screening undergo Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples flagged as presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as needed. The entire laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation meets the standards of both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Extended detection timeframe: Hair drug tests can trace drug usage up to 90 days, as opposed to urine tests with a shorter timeframe.
Hard to manipulate: Cheating on a hair drug test is highly challenging, resulting in more precise outcomes.
Reveals usage history: It offers insights into drug use patterns over time, not just recent use.

Limitations:

Unable to detect immediate use: It generally takes 5-7 days for drugs to become evident in hair.
Expense: Hair drug tests typically cost more than other testing techniques.
Result variations: Factors like hair color and individual differences in hair growth can influence drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Despite often being called "hair follicle tests," the examination focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle below the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Adams, ND

With superior detection accuracy, hair follicle testing overshadows traditional urine tests. This method offers a broader detection window and greater reliability, reducing the chance of manipulation. Whereas urine tests are limited in scope, hair tests provide a detailed analysis of substance use patterns over time.

In Adams, ND, the enhanced detection capabilities of hair tests make them a preferred choice for those seeking thorough substance history insights. Employers weigh the long-term insights from these tests against the momentary assessment of urine tests.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Adams, ND

Hair follicle testing can unveil drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days, offering a comprehensive overview of an individual's substance history. This ample detection window allows employers in Adams, ND, to assess applicants or employees consistently.

This testing option provides a more substantial historical record, enabling better judgment regarding hiring and workplace safety.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Adams, ND

Hair follicle tests present minimized risks of tampering, offering reliable and trustworthy results. These tests resist conventional adulteration methods common in urine testing, giving employers confidence in the outcomes.

In Adams, ND, this robust testing method delivers certainty and integrity in the substance detection process, minimizing the potential for precursory manipulation.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Adams, ND

Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers ensures a seamless, hassle-free access to services. This widespread availability guarantees that testing needs are met with ease and convenience.

Locally, in Adams, ND, we provide efficient and accessible testing sites to suit individual or organizational needs promptly and effectively.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Adams, ND

The process of ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and discreet, maintaining individual privacy. Clients in Adams, ND, benefit from a smooth and private experience that respects confidentiality at every step.

This system ensures ease of use while aligning with privacy concerns, building trust in our services.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Adams, ND

With competitive pricing and swift result delivery, hair follicle testing in Adams, ND, offers exceptional value. This affordability ensures companies of all sizes have access to reliable testing solutions without comprising quality.

The rapid turnaround times further enhance the appeal, allowing organizations to quickly adapt and respond based on test outcomes.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Adams, ND

The precision and expedience of hair follicle tests ensure that substance use is identified with definitive accuracy. In Adams, ND, swift outcomes are provided, empowering individuals and organizations to make informed decisions rapidly regarding substance use.

The detection prowess of hair testing means fewer false positives or negatives, leading to credible assessments every time. Coupled with the quick processing times, hair tests stand out as a dependable choice for detection.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Adams, ND

For employers, using hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, diminishing legal risks while boosting workplace safety. Such compliance strengthens corporate responsibility, offering tranquility regarding policy enforcement.

Employers in Adams, ND, can rely on comprehensive testing results that uphold stringent workplace policies, contributing to safer, more efficient operations.