Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis stands as an effective means for identifying the use of alcohol and drugs. Hair offers a lasting record of substance intake by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of a growing strand. A sample taken near the scalp can reveal a drug or alcohol history of up to three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
An ideal testing sample consists of a 1.5-inch section containing roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil), amounting to 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For testing such as EtG, additional analyses, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale for this measurement is recommended. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. Reference to head hair strictly denotes scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process includes four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In the Accessioning phase, samples are initially processed into the lab's system. This step involves confirming that samples are properly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing additional data entry requirements not met by an electronic chain of custody system.
The Screening phase entails a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Though cost-efficient for excluding drug usage in most cases, positive screenings require confirmation to be court-admissible. Thus, samples testing positive at this stage need further secondary confirmation.
When a sample yields a presumptive positive in Screening, more hair is extracted from the initial sample to prepare for Extraction. This process involves removing drugs from hair fibers at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods such as urine or oral fluid testing, making hair drug screening notably complex.
Confirmation of positive results is performed using techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, each presumptive positive sample undergoes washing as necessary. The entire procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is conducted under the scrutiny of the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", this analysis actually targets the hair strand, not the follicle located beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
Traditional urine tests are often compared to hair follicle tests, particularly in cities like Philippi, WV. Hair tests surpass urine tests with their superior detection capabilities over extended periods, up to 90 days. This longer detection window provides a more comprehensive view of an individual’s substance history.
Another advantage of hair follicle tests is their higher reliability; these tests are less prone to manipulation, thus providing more accurate results. Employers and professionals value the test's ability to expose longer-term substance use patterns effectively.
Extended Detection Window
Hair follicle testing in Philippi, WV, offers an exceptional detection period, monitoring substance use over 90 days. This extensive window is invaluable for employers seeking insights into the long-term habits of employees or candidates, providing a deeper understanding of their substance-use history.
The prolonged detection capacity empowers employers to make more informed decisions. Such comprehensive detection surpasses that provided by more traditional testing methods, enabling organizations to maintain substance-free environments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
Hair follicle testing is a favored option in Philippi, WV, due to its resistance to tampering. Sample adulteration is a concern with many drug tests, but hair testing substantially reduces the likelihood of tampering, guaranteeing credibility in the results obtained.
The test's robustness ensures that the data collected is both reliable and valid. This security facilitates confident decision-making for organizations and authorities conducting these tests, ensuring compliance with policies and legal standards.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations
The availability of Accredited Drug Testing centers in Philippi, WV, simplifies the process for those needing drug tests. With centers spread across numerous locations, accessing testing services has never been more straightforward or stress-free, promoting convenience for both individuals and businesses.
This widespread accessibility ensures quick and seamless testing, regardless of where you are situated. This convenience allows for efficient scheduling and testing, reducing downtime and ensuring timely results.
Simple, Confidential Process
The process of hair follicle testing at our Philippi, WV, locations is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, every step prioritizes user privacy, addressing concerns individuals might have regarding personal data security and privacy rights.
Our method ensures that client confidentiality is upheld throughout the testing procedure, allowing users to feel secure and confident in how their information is managed. The overall process is designed for efficiency and privacy protection.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
Located in Philippi, WV, our hair follicle testing services boast competitive pricing structures and rapid turnaround times. These aspects make drug testing accessible and budget-conscious while still delivering timely outcomes, offering significant value to businesses irrespective of size.
Businesses taking advantage of our services benefit from assured value, with the added peace of mind that comes from swift and dependable testing. This approach facilitates better resource management and decision-making.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Philippi, WV, the demand for fast and reliable drug testing is met with hair follicle tests. These tests are renowned for their precision and efficiency, ensuring high accuracy levels in substance detection. With minimal wait times for results, individuals and organizations can depend on these tests for quick and dependable outcomes.
The ability to trust test results is crucial in any drug testing method. Hair follicle tests provide a precise detection mechanism, reducing the chances of errors. This reliability ensures that substance use is identified accurately, supporting informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
In Philippi, WV, hair follicle testing offers employers the assurance of policy compliance, aligning with drug-free workplace programs. By utilizing these tests, businesses can minimize legal liabilities and foster a safer, more law-abiding work culture.
The implementation of hair testing practices supports an environment of trust and safety. It helps companies uphold stringent substance policies, underscoring their commitment to secure and productive workplaces.
