Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair records a prolonged account of alcohol and drugs by capturing biomarkers within the strands of the advancing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer a detection span of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to obtain, hard to tamper with, and convenient for transportation.
A 1.5-inch segment containing roughly 200 strands of hair (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for initial and confirmatory testing. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair cannot be used, an equivalent volume of body hair can be gathered. The term head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test outcome involves four core steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary input of a sample into a lab’s system. This involves confirming that the sample was securely sealed and transported, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and filling out any missing data not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary assessment for drug presence. It is an economical way to exclude drug consumption in most samples, but a positive screening must be confirmed to be valid in legal settings. Samples testing positive in Screening require additional verification through a secondary confirmation.
In the event of a positive screening outcome, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. This stage involves isolating drugs from hair at markedly lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug screening particularly challenging to execute.
The Confirmation of positive screening findings is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive specimens undergo a washing before confirmation if required. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle below the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Falls, PA
Fall, PA's hair testing notes distinct advantages over standard urine testing. Highlights include enhanced detection accuracy and reliability, setting a benchmark in superior drug testing methods for the region.
Extended Detection Window in Falls, PA
Hair follicle testing provides an extended detection period, revealing drug use history for up to 90 days. This capability ensures that employers in Falls, PA gain a comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use background, aiding in thorough evaluations.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Falls, PA
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their resistance to tampering, delivering credible and trusted results. The testing method helps reassure Falls, PA stakeholders that the results are reliable and difficult to alter in any way.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Falls, PA
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures accessibility and ease for those in Falls, PA. From coast to coast, our facilities offer quick and hassle-free access to crucial testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Falls, PA
The testing process is straightforward and discreet, ensuring user privacy from ordering through result delivery in Falls, PA. It addresses concerns regarding confidentiality and the simplicity of the testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Falls, PA
In Falls, PA, our competitive pricing and swift turnaround present immense value. We cater to businesses of all sizes, delivering peace of mind with our efficient services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Falls, PA
In Falls, PA, hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled accuracy and speed in detecting substance use. With their high precision, these tests provide reliable results that make them a preferred option for many seeking dependable detection methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Falls, PA
Employers in Falls, PA can rely on hair follicle testing to maintain drug-free workplaces, aligning with compliance standards. This proactive approach enhances safety and reduces legal exposure.
