Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations are now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a long-term record of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the strands of the hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to three months for alcohol and other drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches from approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is the optimal amount for both screening and verification. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. In cases where scalp hair is not present, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. The term head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types, such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four central steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into the laboratory's database. This process includes confirming that the sample has been sealed and shipped correctly, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input required that isn't covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial rapid test for drugs commonly abused. While it is a cost-efficient method for eliminating drug use in most samples, any positive results from Screening must be verified to hold up in court. Any samples that yield a presumptive positive in Screening require further confirmation.
When a presumptive positive result is found in the Screening step, additional hair is taken from the primary sample and processed for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at a concentration level lower than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most intricate methods to execute.
For any positive outcomes in the screening to be confirmed, they are analyzed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated following the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often called "hair follicle tests", the test specifically analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in North River, AL
Hair follicle tests consistently outperform urine tests by offering superior detection accuracy. With a broad time window for identifying substance usage, hair tests excel in reliability and depth of analysis.
Traditional urine tests, while capable, lack the ability to detect historical patterns of use, making hair testing the preferred choice for comprehensive substance history assessment.
Extended Detection Window in North River, AL
Hair follicle testing provides insights into drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This is indispensable for employers who value a thorough understanding of an employee's or applicant’s substance history.
The elongated detection range means that short-term abstention from substance use doesn’t conceal prior use, safeguarding the workplace environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in North River, AL
Compared to other methods, hair follicle tests offer a significant advantage against sample tampering or adulteration. Their design naturally minimizes such risks, delivering results that stakeholders can trust unequivocally.
This reliability means employers can make informed decisions based on accurate readings without concerns about manipulation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in North River, AL
Our extensive network of nationwide testing locations ensures everyone has convenient access to drug testing services, making the process stress-free.
Whether in North River or elsewhere, locating a nearby facility is simple, ensuring that testing needs are met promptly and efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in North River, AL
Our process is designed to be straightforward, ensuring simplicity and discretion from ordering to receiving results. Privacy is a paramount concern, ensuring all information remains confidential and secure.
A focus on confidentiality means peace of mind throughout the testing process, meeting both individual and organizational expectations for discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in North River, AL
We pride ourselves on competitive pricing models, ensuring affordability for a range of budgets without compromising service quality.
With expedient turnaround times, we provide quick results, reinforcing value and efficiency that companies appreciate and depend on.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in North River, AL
The hair follicle drug test offers unparalleled precision and speed, ensuring accuracy in substance detection. Employers and individuals benefit from knowing that these tests quickly and reliably uncover drug use.
Moreover, the efficiency of hair follicle tests means swift results without sacrificing correctness. This balance is crucial, particularly when time-sensitive decisions are necessary.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in North River, AL
By implementing hair follicle testing, employers assure adherence to drug-free protocols, reducing potential liability and enhancing workplace safety.
The confidence gained from compliant testing procedures allows businesses to thrive without the shadow of substance misuse-related incidents weighing on them.
