What's the difference: Hair Drug Testing vs. Urinalysis

There is a definite debate over the best way to drug test employees before they are hired, or the best way to keep students away from drugs. There are some major differences between hair drug testing and urine alcohol testing that can help employers, educators and the like make a decision regarding this very important issue.

Let's face it. How fun is it when you know that you have to take the drug test for your new job and you arrive at the drug testing location, pee in a cup and go on your way. Now, how much better would it be if you just had to let a few hairs get plucked from your head? It is a much more non-invasive way to get test for alcohol and/or drugs. Plus, a hair drug test can confirm use up to 12 months whereas a urinalysis is only good if it is within 72 hours. Many people find their way around negative results when it comes to a regular urinalysis. Hair drug tests don't allow you to lie because the evidence imbeds itself in your hair for a long time. I guess you could shave your head?

Another important factor to consider is whether or not regular testing will be done. If a company is going to do period testing a hair drug testing would be a better option. Regular testing with a urinalysis will have to be done much more frequently and it will become much more costly for the company as well. Plus, it won't give you a complete picture of historical abuse like hair drug testing can. Established historical patterns of abuse can be detected when a hair drug test is done. This is simply not possible when a urinalysis is completed.

Finally, the risk of tampering is greatly increased when a urinalysis is done. You cannot tamper with your hair or the hair drug test. It is also possible for a hair drug test to be redone. However, due to the short window of opportunity needed for a urinalysis it is not possible to do a retest.

The process of testing for drugs and alcohol is an important decision for any company. The costs associated must be considered as should the method the test is performed. Some companies will decide not to test. However, this may or may not lead to a very different set of personnel hired. Hair drug testing can be much more useful for companies. The reason it works so well is that the hair growth is fed by the bloodstream and any ingestion of drug abuse is revealed with the small sample of hair that is analyzed.

So, what will companies choose in the future? Well, in this current economic climate they will probably stick with the standard urinalysis - oh, how we love that cup. However, hopefully they will consider the hair drug test as a viable option when it comes to drug testing. In order to crack down on people that are abusing drugs it will be essential that employers take a stand, especially if they find that they have employees that might be abusing the system. Setting high standards for their employees and providing a safe atmosphere is essential for any company - starting with an error proof drug screen may just be the thing companies need to get the standards started.

About the Author: Rebecca Beckett is a freelance writer for Innuity . If you would like more information about hair drug testing or urine alcohol testinggo to Trimega