Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair serves as a source of historical data on alcohol and drug intake by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair. When collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to around 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, difficult to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with approximately 200 strands of hair (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It is advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, the equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it strictly refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the preliminary handling of a sample within a laboratory's system. This step includes confirming that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any remaining data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical means to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive outcome necessitates confirmation to be court-admissible. Any samples with a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Preparation for Extraction. In this phase, substances are isolated from hair at a considerably lower concentration than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is performed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The entire laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test in reality assesses the hair strand instead of the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Schell City, MO
In Schell City, MO, hair follicle testing offers substantial advantages over traditional urine tests. These tests provide superior detection accuracy, capturing substance use over a longer timeframe. Unlike urine tests, which can be influenced by recent use or evasion tactics, hair tests offer a more reliable snapshot, ideal for employers seeking comprehensive insights into substance habits.
Extended Detection Window in Schell City, MO
Hair follicle testing in Schell City, MO provides an extensive detection window, identifying substance use over a period of up to 90 days. This long-term view is invaluable for employers wanting to understand an employee's or applicant's ongoing substance use history. It grants a broader perspective on habitual use, aiding in informed decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Schell City, MO
In Schell City, MO, hair follicle tests reduce the risk of sample tampering significantly. The collection and testing processes provide results that are virtually tamper-proof and reliable. This level of rigor ensures that results are credible, providing peace of mind for employers and legal bodies tasked with evaluating substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Schell City, MO
We offer convenient testing locations both nationwide and locally in Schell City, MO, ensuring a seamless testing process. Our network allows for quick, hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services, enhancing the efficiency of drug screening programs.
Simple, Confidential Process in Schell City, MO
Our testing procedure in Schell City, MO is both straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, each step is designed to protect privacy while ensuring ease of use. This simplicity reassures clients, providing trusted testing solutions with minimal hassle.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Schell City, MO
In Schell City, MO, we offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround times on our hair follicle tests. Our services deliver excellent value for companies of all sizes, ensuring they receive timely results and maintain control over their drug-free initiatives without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Schell City, MO
In Schell City, MO, hair follicle drug testing stands out for its unparalleled accuracy and speed. These tests are renowned for their precision in detecting illicit substances, offering results that are not only fast but highly reliable. Employers favor this method due to its ability to provide dependable and swift outcomes, ensuring a drug-free workplace environment.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Schell City, MO
Hair follicle testing in Schell City, MO ensures adherence to workplace drug-free policies. It minimizes legal liabilities and fosters a safer work environment. Employers gain peace of mind knowing that they are compliant, thus enhancing operational integrity and public trust.
