Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a significant method for assessing drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug presence by embedding biomarkers within its growing strands. When hair is sampled close to the scalp, it offers about a three-month detection timeframe for both alcohol and drugs. The collection process for hair is straightforward, it's challenging to tamper with, and shipping is hassle-free.
A 1.5-inch sample comprising around 200 hair strands, similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil, taken near the scalp, weighs about 100mg, which is ideal for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or more than 10-panel tests, 150mg of the sample is suggested. We advise utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent amount of body hair is acceptable. When referring to head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. Body hair implies other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample into the lab's database. This step includes ensuring the sample's seal and shipping integrity, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplemental data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening presents a preliminary assessment for abuse drugs. While Screening is economical for excluding drug use in most samples, a confirmed positive result is essential for legal validity. Samples that show an initial positive in Screening require a confirmatory test.
If Screening suggests a positive result, further hair is retrieved from the original sample for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations compared to urine or oral fluid; hence, hair drug screening is the most intricate methodology.
Confirmatory analysis for positive screenings is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All suspected positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specifications as well as ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently called "hair follicle tests", the actual test evaluates the hair strand rather than the hair follicle below the scalp.
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine testing methods in Osage, AR, due to its advanced detection accuracy. Compared to urine tests, hair testing offers superior reliability and precision.
Employers prefer hair tests for their extended detection period, revealing substance use long after it occurs, making them a valuable tool in maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Hair follicle testing in Osage, AR, offers an extended detection window, often reaching up to 90 days. This capability gives employers a clearer view of an individual's substance use history, aiding in informed decision-making.
The prolonged detection period of hair follicle tests makes them an invaluable resource for understanding long-term substance use, unlike other testing methods that provide a limited window.
Hair follicle tests in Osage, AR, significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring that results remain reliable and unquestionable. Avoiding the pitfalls of other testing methods, hair tests maintain their integrity against tampering.
Employers benefit from hair follicle testing's robust method of collection and analysis, providing peace of mind with credible results.
With numerous nationwide testing centers, including local ones in Osage, AR, Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. This widespread availability ensures swift and efficient testing processes.
Our strategically located facilities offer ease of access, allowing individuals and employers to undergo testing without unnecessary delays.
In Osage, AR, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, users can expect privacy and simplicity at every step.
Addressing privacy concerns, the process ensures discretion and ease, fostering confidence among those who partake in the testing procedure.
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing alongside quick turnaround times in Osage, AR, delivering exceptional value and peace of mind for companies of all sizes. Our pricing structures meet the budgetary needs of diverse businesses.
The efficiency and affordability of our services make hair follicle testing accessible, reinforcing its role as a reliable option for substance testing.
In Osage, AR, the speed and precision of hair follicle drug tests are unmatched. These tests provide highly accurate results, efficiently detecting substance use.
The meticulous approach of hair follicle testing ensures reliable outcomes, instilling confidence in employers regarding the veracity of the results obtained.
Implementing hair follicle testing in Osage, AR, helps employers comply with drug-free workplace policies, thus minimizing legal risks and enhancing overall safety. Employers can trust that they are upholding industry standards effectively.
Peace of mind is a key benefit when utilizing hair testing methods, ensuring adherence to regulations and maintaining a secure working environment.
