Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of these substances by embedding chemical traces within the hair as it grows. When obtained close to the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug use for a period of up to three months. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and convenient to send for testing.
A 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hair strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for both initial screening and subsequent confirmation tests. For EtG tests, additional or more extensive testing beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is recommended. It's advised to use a precise scale for weighing the sample, like a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be gathered, an equivalent quantity of body hair may suffice. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The drug test laboratory process involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the step where a sample is entered into a lab’s system. This step ensures the sample is properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishes any additional entry required beyond the electronic custody chain.
Screening provides a preliminary examination for drug traces. Though cost-efficient for excluding drug use in most cases, positive screening outcomes must be validated to be legally admissible. Samples preliminarily testing positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
A sample indicated as positive during the Screening phase will have more hair drawn from the original sample for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are removed from hair with much lower concentration levels than other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug analysis particularly challenging.
Confirmation of any screening-evidenced positive result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumptively positive undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory routine from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair requirements and the accreditation of ISO / IEC 17025 norms.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is misleading since the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the underlying follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Mount Herman Valley, AL is clear through superior benefits. Hair tests offer greater accuracy and reliability in detecting drug use. While urine tests are traditional, they often miss extended drug intake periods, unlike hair tests which capture a broader picture. The precision provided by hair testing ensures a more comprehensive assessment.
Extended Detection Window in Mount Herman Valley, AL is a game-changer. Hair testing can trace drug use up to 90 days back, offering a detailed substance history for employers. This extended window gives a more reliable insight into an individual's long-term drug use, assisting employers in making informed hiring and retention decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Mount Herman Valley, AL elevates the reliability of hair tests. Sample adulteration risk is significantly reduced with hair testing, ensuring results are trustworthy. Unlike other methods, hair follicle tests offer nearly tamper-proof results, promoting integrity and confidence in the findings.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations including Local Sites in Mount Herman Valley, AL provide accessibility. Testing centers across the country ensure the seamless facilitation of hair follicle testing. This wide network of convenient locations makes accessing services straightforward and stress-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Mount Herman Valley, AL is paramount. Hair follicle test orders, administration, and results are handled with ease and discretion. Individuals can be assured of both privacy and a straightforward process, addressing any concerns about confidentiality and operational simplicity.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Mount Herman Valley, AL make hair testing attractive. Competitive pricing paired with quick results offers excellent value, catering to businesses of all sizes, ensuring they receive the best expertise without straining budgets.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Mount Herman Valley, AL make hair follicle tests superior. Their ability to deliver quick results without compromising accuracy is remarkable. Hair testing precisely detects substance use, ensuring that individuals and employers can rely on these results with confidence. The efficiency of these tests aids in making informed decisions promptly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Mount Herman Valley, AL are achieved through hair follicle testing. It aligns with drug-free policies, lowers legal liabilities, and enhances safety. Employers can rest assured knowing that hair tests ensure compliance and reduce the risk of workplace incidents.
