Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant method for identifying substance abuse, including alcohol. Hair archives a long-term timeline of substance intake by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When sourced near the scalp, hair offers about a 3-month detection period for substances like alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and verification. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent amount of body hair should be gathered. In this context, head hair solely refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair indicates all other types (such as facial or axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test consists of four essential stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial process of incorporating a sample into a lab’s database. This process involves confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing necessary data entry that an electronic chain of custody might not cover.
Screening encompasses an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. Although it offers a cost-effective means to exclude substance use in most samples, a positive screen must be verified for court acceptance. Samples with a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
When a sample tests presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and processed for Extraction. During Extraction, substances are isolated from hair in much lower concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair analysis is a challenging methodology.
Positive screening results are verified through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS analysis. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before verification if required. The laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is audited in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditations.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the actual test scrutinizes the hair strand instead of the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Haleburg, AL
Hair testing offers enhanced detection accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. Its ability to detect drug use over a longer period provides a deeper insight into an individual's substance use habits. Hair tests are also considered more tamper-resistant, offering more credible results for those needing comprehensive testing solutions.
Extended Detection Window in Haleburg, AL
Hair follicle testing can identify drug use over a longer period—up to 90 days—providing employers with a comprehensive overview of an individual’s substance history. This extended detection window surpasses the capabilities of urine tests, making it invaluable for decision-makers who need detailed information about drug use patterns over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Haleburg, AL
Hair follicle tests significantly reduce sample adulteration risk, offering results that are reliable and difficult to dispute. This testing method ensures that the sample remains untainted by external factors, providing trustworthy and conclusive results for those requiring accurate drug usage data without the possibility of deception.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations Including Haleburg, AL
Enjoy the convenience of widespread testing centers, allowing simple and stress-free access to services. Nationwide locations ensure that individuals and employers in Haleburg, AL, can benefit from fast and efficient testing processes, reducing downtime and ensuring timely and accurate results whenever needed.
Simple, Confidential Process in Haleburg, AL
The process for taking hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential, ensuring privacy and simplicity from ordering to receiving results. This streamlined approach addresses privacy concerns while providing a fuss-free experience for individuals needing reliable and quick access to drug testing services.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Haleburg, AL
Hair follicle drug testing offers competitive pricing with a quick turnaround time, giving excellent value for businesses of any size. Reliable and prompt results not only save time but also provide peace of mind, knowing the costs remain fair without sacrifices on efficiency or effectiveness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Haleburg, AL
Hair follicle drug testing provides superior precision and speed in detecting substance use. This method's high accuracy ensures that the results are reliable and delivered rapidly, making it a preferred choice for employers seeking definitive information on an individual's drug use history. This swiftness and reliability set the test apart from others.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Haleburg, AL
Utilizing hair follicle testing supports compliance with workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks while enhancing safety. Employers can achieve peace of mind by adopting these screening methods, ensuring their workforce adheres to strict substance use guidelines and maintains a secure working environment.
