Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means of identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair provides an extensive timeline of substance intake by embedding biomarkers within the growing hair fibers. When collected from the scalp, it can offer a detection period of up to about 3 months for alcohol and drug usage. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample of approximately 200 hair strands (resembling the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp amounts to 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or screenings beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. It is recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, an equivalent volume of body hair may be gathered. Reference to head hair pertains solely to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other forms (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the lab processing of a drug testing result comprise Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the introduction of a sample into a lab's system. This includes ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any supplementary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for drug misuse. Although Screening serves as an economical method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a confirmed positive result is necessary for court acceptability. Samples that test presumptive positive during Screening require further confirmation.
When a sample yields a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at a much-diminished concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which poses a challenge for hair drug screening methodology.
Confirmation of any presumptive positive result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed prior to confirmation as needed. Every step from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests," the procedure evaluates the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Marengo, OH
Comparing hair tests with urine tests reveals distinct advantages, especially in Marengo, OH. Hair follicle tests surpass traditional urine tests in accuracy and reliability. They provide a longer detection window, which allows for a more comprehensive understanding of a person's substance use history.
Unlike urine tests, hair follicle testing can identify drug use over an extended period. Its superior detection allows employers to enact more informed and confident employment decisions based on accurate substance use data.
Extended Detection Window in Marengo, OH
The prime advantage of hair follicle testing lies in its extended detection period, spanning up to 90 days. Employers in Marengo, OH benefit from an expansive view of their employees' substance histories, beyond what is possible with other testing methods.
This extended window is pivotal for understanding patterns of drug use, allowing employers to assess long-term behavior rather than just recent use. As a result, they can maintain a safer, drug-free workplace environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Marengo, OH
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its resistance to tampering, providing integrity and reliability in results. In Marengo, OH, this method considerably lowers the risk of adulteration compared to urine tests, ensuring results remain uncontested.
The collection process, which involves minimal invasive procedures, prevents attempts at falsification, thus safeguarding test accuracy and the resulting data's authenticity, vital for reputable drug assessments.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Marengo, OH
Accredited Drug Testing offers conveniently located centers nationwide, including Marengo, OH, ensuring straightforward access to drug testing services. This widespread availability simplifies the process, eliminating potential logistical challenges for employers and individuals.
The strategic positioning of our centers reduces travel time and allows for prompt, efficient drug testing, maintaining the privacy and efficiency needed for effective substance use monitoring.
Simple, Confidential Process in Marengo, OH
Our drug testing process in Marengo, OH is designed to be both simple and confidential, emphasizing ease and privacy for all involved. From ordering tests to receiving results, each step is user-friendly and discreet.
We prioritize your privacy, ensuring that results are delivered securely and confidentially. This focus ensures a stress-free testing experience, enhancing confidence and reliability in the testing process for all clients.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Marengo, OH
Cost-effectiveness is central to our services in Marengo, OH, where we offer competitive pricing alongside swift turnaround times. Our testing provides remarkable value without compromising on quality, benefitting companies of all sizes.
The prompt delivery of results, paired with our attractive pricing structure, makes us the preferred choice for businesses seeking efficient and reliable drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Marengo, OH
When it comes to drug testing, the speed and precision of results are paramount. Hair follicle tests offer incredibly accurate detection of substance use. This method ensures fast results that are not only detailed but also reliable, making them an indispensable tool for employers needing timely information.
In Marengo, OH, our testing facilities prioritize both precision and quick results. By analyzing a small hair sample, we effectively detect the presence of drugs, ensuring results are both thorough and timely. This level of accuracy is essential for effective decision-making and maintaining safe working environments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Marengo, OH
For employers in Marengo, OH, hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free policies and reduces legal liabilities. Adopting this method enhances workplace safety by identifying potential substance issues early, contributing to a stable and productive working environment.
The commitment to compliant and extensive substance screening reassures employers, offering peace of mind, while simultaneously protecting their organization's integrity and safety standards.
