Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Seen as a significant method for detecting alcohol and drug use, hair analysis provides a comprehensive timeline by embedding biomarkers within the strands of the hair as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to about three months for alcohol alongside other substances. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands (resembling a #2 pencil in size) close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for screening and confirmatory purposes. For EtG additions and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample quantity of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair can be used instead. By head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary phases within the laboratory procedure for drug testing outcomes are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is integrated into the laboratory’s system. It encompasses verifying the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any remaining data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is the initial brief evaluation for potential drug abuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmatory testing to be deemed valid in court. Samples that indicate a presumptive positive in Screening indeed need further verification.
In cases where a sample shows as presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. In this process, drugs are isolated from the hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), which accounts for why hair drug testing is among the most challenging methodologies.
Confirming a positive result from Screening is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. Samples with a presumptive positive status undergo washing before final confirmation if needed. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accrediting standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not on the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Taloga, OK
Hair testing provides superior accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. The hair follicle method captures a broader detection window, identifying drug use over several months. Its resistance to evasion and manipulation assures stakeholders of its dependability over conventional urine examinations.
Extended Detection Window in Taloga, OK
Hair follicle tests unveil drug use for up to 90 days, offering employers a thorough review of an individual's substance history. This extended detection capability grants a deeper insight into an applicant's or employee's patterns, proving invaluable for making informed hiring and monitoring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Taloga, OK
The integrity of hair follicle tests is unmatched due to their robust nature against tampering. Their design significantly diminishes the risk of alteration, thus providing assured, unquestionable results. This reliability makes them a preferred choice in environments where authenticity is paramount.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Taloga, OK
Our extensive network of testing centers promises ease of access and efficiency. With facilities nationwide and locally in Taloga, OK, individuals and businesses enjoy seamless, hassle-free testing services, cutting down the wait time and streamlining the testing process for all involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Taloga, OK
The process of ordering, undergoing, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential. Our privacy protocols ensure client concerns about discretion are managed, promising a smooth and worry-free experience from start to finish for all participants.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Taloga, OK
Our competitive pricing and swift turnaround times provide essential value and assurance for companies of all sizes. Whether for pre-employment screening or compliance checks, our services are financially accessible, ensuring swift results without compromising quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Taloga, OK
Hair follicle drug tests deliver rapid and dependable outcomes, making them ideal for screening substance use. Their precision ensures the detection of a wide range of substances, providing confidence in results. Employers and agencies benefit from the meticulous accuracy offered by hair testing, setting it apart in the field of drug detection.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Taloga, OK
Employers using hair follicle tests ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This compliance not only reduces legal liabilities but also enhances workplace safety. With accurate drug screening, employers gain peace of mind, knowing their workforce is compliant with outlined standards.
