Hair Follicle Drug Test for Pre-Employment
Hair Follicle Drug Test for Pre-Employment Ensures Reliable Long-Term Screening
The hair follicle drug test for pre-employment detects drug use within a 90-day window, making it ideal for employers seeking comprehensive screening. This test involves collecting a small hair sample sent to one of five national labs for analysis. Non-negative results undergo Medical Review Officer review. Call (877) 731-6362 to arrange testing.
What is a hair follicle drug test for pre-employment?
A hair follicle drug test for pre-employment is a laboratory analysis that detects drug metabolites in a small sample of hair. It identifies drug use typically within the prior 90 days, offering a longer detection window than urine or saliva tests. Employers use this test to screen candidates for past drug use before hiring.
AMH Nationwide coordinates lab orders that route samples to one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox. The test requires a hair sample of approximately 1.5 inches in length, collected at an authorized site.
How does the pre-employment hair follicle test work?
The test works by analyzing a small hair sample cut close to the scalp, which captures drug metabolites deposited in hair follicles over time. This sample is sent to a certified lab for testing using validated methods.
Non-negative or positive results are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) to confirm findings and rule out legitimate explanations. This ensures accuracy before results are reported to the employer.
Why do employers choose hair follicle tests for pre-employment screening?
Employers choose hair follicle drug tests for pre-employment because they provide a reliable, long-term view of a candidate’s drug use history, reducing the risk of hiring individuals who may have recent or chronic substance use issues.
The test is less invasive than urine testing and harder to adulterate, offering more confidence in results. It also complies with many company policies requiring extended drug detection.
What substances does the hair follicle test detect in pre-employment screening?
The hair follicle drug test commonly screens for multiple substances including marijuana (THC), cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, methamphetamines, and phencyclidine (PCP). Panels may vary by employer requirements.
Detection depends on drug incorporation into hair and the length of hair collected. It does not detect very recent drug use within the past week due to hair growth rates.
Start Your Pre-Employment Hair Follicle Drug Testing Today
Contact AMH Nationwide to arrange a hair follicle drug test for pre-employment screening. We coordinate with five national labs and provide expert guidance. Call (877) 731-6362 for assistance.
How does an employer order a hair follicle drug test for pre-employment?
Employers contact AMH Nationwide to request a lab order for a hair follicle drug test for pre-employment. AMH directs the candidate to a nearby collection site affiliated with one of the five national lab networks.
There is no option for online ordering. AMH coordinates the entire process and provides support. Pricing varies depending on the specific test panel and detection window. Employers should call (877) 731-6362 for a quote.
Is the hair follicle drug test used for DOT-regulated pre-employment screening?
No, the hair follicle drug test is not used for Department of Transportation (DOT) regulated safety-sensitive positions. DOT requires urine testing under federally certified protocols as outlined in 49 CFR Part 40.
Hair testing is suitable for non-DOT roles where employers want extended detection of drug use beyond the DOT window.
Common Questions
Results from a hair follicle drug test typically take 3 to 5 business days after the lab receives the sample. This includes Medical Review Officer review for any non-negative findings.
Hair treatments like bleaching or dyeing may reduce drug metabolite concentrations but do not fully prevent detection. Labs account for hair condition during analysis to ensure accuracy.
If head hair is insufficient, body hair may be collected, but detection windows and interpretation differ. Employers should discuss options with AMH Nationwide.
Hair follicle testing generally costs more than standard urine tests due to longer detection windows and specialized lab procedures. Pricing varies by panel; call (877) 731-6362 for details.
It is very difficult to cheat a hair follicle test because the sample is cut close to the scalp and drug metabolites are embedded inside the hair shaft.
No, AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs the candidate to a collection site affiliated with one of five national labs. Testing is completed by certified laboratories.
Ready to get started?
AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and arranges collection nationwide. Every non-negative result reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer. Call (877) 731-6362 or contact us.