Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of alcohol and drug use by securing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair can provide a detection period of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of around 200 hair strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weight of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair might be collected. When mentioning head hair, we refer only to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in processing a drug test result in a lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is integrated into the lab system. This process includes ensuring the sample is sealed and delivered correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any remaining data entry not given by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial brief inspection for substances of abuse. Though cost-effective for eliminating drug involvement in most samples, a positive outcome in Screening demands confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that show presumptive positivity in Screening need further confirmation.
If Screening signifies a presumptively positive result, additional hair is sourced from the preliminary sample and readied for Extraction. Drugs are then extracted from the hair at a significantly lower concentration than in other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples with presumptive positivity are cleaned before confirmation as required. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the test evaluates the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Valley Hi, OH
In Valley Hi, OH, hair follicle tests significantly outperform traditional urine tests. With superior detection capabilities, they provide more reliable results over an extended period, offering advantages to employers aiming for thorough drug screening.
Extended Detection Window in Valley Hi, OH
Hair follicle testing covers drug use detection over a much longer period of up to 90 days. This extended window affords employers a detailed perspective on an individual's substance use history, proving invaluable in making informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Valley Hi, OH
In Valley Hi, OH, hair follicle tests offer a robust safeguard against sample tampering. This reduces the risk of adulteration, ensuring that the results are both reliable and unquestionable, providing peace of mind to users and administrators alike.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Valley Hi, OH
Our testing services in Valley Hi, OH, are backed by a network of nationwide centers, allowing convenient access to drug testing. This widespread availability ensures a seamless and efficient testing experience for clients everywhere.
Simple, Confidential Process in Valley Hi, OH
The hair follicle testing process in Valley Hi, OH, is marked by simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to result acquisition, every step is designed to uphold privacy and ease, addressing any concerns related to user discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Valley Hi, OH
Our competitive pricing in Valley Hi, OH, combined with rapid result turnaround, provides great value for companies. This ensures that businesses of any size can access quality testing services without financial strain or delay in outcomes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Valley Hi, OH
Hair follicle drug testing offers unparalleled accuracy in Valley Hi, OH, swiftly detecting substance use. Known for its speed and precision, this method ensures results are both fast and highly reliable, giving organizations confidence in their testing process.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Valley Hi, OH
Using hair follicle testing supports stringent workplace drug-free policies in Valley Hi, OH. This method mitigates legal liabilities and enhances workplace safety, affording employers peace of mind through compliant, dependable testing processes.
