\u2022 A standard scalp hair sample can generally provide a drug use detection window of about 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Hair testing offers a longer lookback period than urine testing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Hair length, sample location, substance type, use pattern, and the specific test ordered can affect what may be detected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you need a hair follicle drug test, one of the first questions you may have is how far back testing can detect drug use. Hair drug testing is often selected when an employer, legal professional, or individual needs a broader view of possible substance use than a urine test may provide. A standard scalp sample can generally reflect about 90 days of history<\/a>, although the exact detection window can vary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During a hair drug test, we collect a small sample close to the scalp. Our qualified team collects the sample and sends it to a laboratory for analysis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As hair grows, drug compounds and their metabolites can become incorporated into the hair. Laboratory analysis looks for those markers in the collected sample. Because hair grows over time, it can provide information across a longer period than testing methods focused on more recent use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a standard head hair sample, testing can generally look back approximately 90 days. This estimate is based on a sample collected close to the scalp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A longer strand does not automatically mean a test will evaluate an unlimited period. The laboratory follows the requirements of the specific test ordered. If scalp hair is unavailable, another collection site may sometimes be considered, but the possible detection period can differ because body hair grows differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Several factors can influence how long a substance may be detectable in hair:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 The length of the collected hair<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Whether the sample comes from the scalp or another area<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 The substance being tested for<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 The frequency and pattern of use<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 The type of hair test requested<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hair testing generally shows a longer pattern of possible use rather than very recent exposure. Urine testing is often used when a shorter and more recent detection period is the priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The substances included depend on the test ordered. Common hair testing options may look for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. Some options can include additional substances when broader screening is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before collection, confirm why you need the test. Workplace policies, legal requirements, or personal testing goals may call for different testing options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hair and urine testing serve different purposes. A urine test can be useful for identifying more recent drug use, while hair testing can offer a longer historical window. Hair collection is also directly observed, which can help protect sample integrity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The best choice depends on the reason for testing, the required detection period, and any applicable workplace or legal requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hair testing may be requested for pre-employment screening, workplace testing programs, legal matters, court requirements, or personal testing needs. Employers may also choose hair testing when they want a longer view as part of a workplace testing policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n ARCpoint Labs of Omaha helps individuals and employers understand available testing options and complete professional sample collection in Omaha. To get started, browse our testing services<\/a> or contact us<\/a> to schedule your collection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Image Credit: Parilov | Shutterstock<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" \u2022 A standard scalp hair sample can generally provide a drug use detection window of about 90 days. \u2022 Hair testing offers a longer lookback period than urine testing. \u2022 Hair length, sample location, substance type, use pattern, and the specific test ordered can affect what may be detected. If you need a hair follicle […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":408954,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"\n \u2022 Non-DOT drug testing helps create a safe and productive work environment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Non-DOT drug testing services are offered for companies and agencies that are not required to meet federally mandated DOT standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 ARCpoint Labs of Omaha offers convenient, local services for employers and individuals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses that fall outside of U.S. Department of Transportation requirements for drug testing also create a safer and more productive work environment through testing programs. Non-DOT drug testing offers more flexibility while providing the same or better benefits than standardized DOT tests. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Employers, employees, and applicants should understand how non-DOT drug tests differ from DOT testing and how they improve performance and safety in work environments ranging from government to manufacturing to retail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The easiest way to grasp non-DOT drug testing is to understand what DOT testing entails and who it affects. Workers in transportation (truck drivers, bus drivers, train conductors, pilots, etc.) and pipeline industries are required by federal law to pass a standard 5-panel drug test using a urine sample.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Companies that are not required to meet DOT drug testing standards can perform similar, more extensive, or less extensive drug testing. For instance, DOT screening covers cannabis and alcohol, while non-DOT companies may choose not to test for those substances. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They also can choose to conduct testing through urine, saliva, or hair samples, which offer other benefits. Hair samples are more effective at unearthing long-term drug usage and are less likely to be fooled by someone abstaining from drugs for a short period before a test. Saliva samples offer similar findings to urine, but they are less susceptible to employees substituting a fake sample since saliva is collected by the tester. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Companies that adopt drug testing must establish a policy that treats all employees equally and meets any state regulations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Most people might think of company drug testing as a pre-screening option for potential hires, but an effective drug-testing policy must also address ongoing testing to maintain a safe workplace. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Non-DOT drug testing includes features such as annual or random testing, post-accident and follow-up testing, and testing under reasonable suspicion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If a company requires an annual physical, drug testing is often a component. Random testing may be set up such that a company tests a certain percentage of the workforce each year through a blind draw. Post-accident testing is a common procedure to determine if impairment was a contributing factor. Follow-up testing may come after an accident as a condition to return to work or in the wake of a positive test as a condition of continued employment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n DOT drug testing requires a 5-panel urine test conducted by a SAMHSA-certified lab. Companies establish their policies about how non-DOT drug testing is completed. Though testing can be conducted by a SAMHSA-certified lab, other labs also can be used. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Companies also choose whether to limit themselves to urine testing or keep their options open to use saliva or hair testing, based on circumstances. For example, if a company routinely conducts annual tests around an employee's work anniversary, employees might try to fool the test by abstaining for a few days prior to the test. In such cases, a hair sample provides a more comprehensive analysis of an employee's potential drug use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Employees are often sent to the test provider to provide samples, but some companies offer mobile services to conduct programs such as random or annual tests. <\/p>\n\n\n\n ARCpoint Labs of Omaha provides trained staff to help companies set up drug testing policies and conduct tests in our facilities, on-site, or through our mobile services. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Non-DOT breath alcohol tests determine current impairment and are offered primarily as post-accident or reasonable suspicion options. Pre-employment testing does not offer breath alcohol testing because it cannot detect previous or long-term use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n ARCpoint Labs of Omaha offers comprehensive support for companies or agencies throughout the Omaha area as they establish and implement non-DOT drug testing policies. We also treat employees and applicants with respect and understanding as they undergo what may be unfamiliar territory. Contact our<\/a> professional and caring staff for a broad range of assistance with your non-DOT drug testing program. Individuals can also choose their test(s) and schedule an appointment online<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\nHow Hair Drug Testing Works<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Far Back Does a Hair Drug Test Go?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Can Affect the Detection Window?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Can a Hair Drug Test Detect?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Hair Testing Compared With Urine Testing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When Hair Drug Testing May Be Used<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Is a Non-DOT Drug Test?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When Do Employers Use Non-DOT Drug Testing?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Is a Non-DOT Drug Test Performed?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Is a Non-DOT Breath Alcohol Test?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Get Reliable Non-DOT Drug Testing in Omaha<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n