Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a long-term record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the growing strands. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer roughly a 3-month window for alcohol and drug detection. It is easy to obtain, challenging to tamper with, and quick to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment containing approximately 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair isn’t an option, an equal quantity of body hair can be gathered. When we mention head hair, we mean only scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning deals with the sample's initial integration into a lab's system. This step involves confirming the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling out any extra data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary check for drug abuse. Although Screening efficiently excludes drug usage for many samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to be valid in court. Any samples likely positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
If a sample seems positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are removed from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), illustrating why hair drug testing is notably complex.
Positive screening results are verified through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumed positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as required. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Port Sewall, FL
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing provides superior detection accuracy and reliability. With the capacity to uncover drug use over an extended period, it offers a more comprehensive overview of an individual's substance history, surpassing the limitations of urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Port Sewall, FL
Hair follicle testing stands out with its ability to detect drug use for up to 90 days. This extended detection window gives employers a thorough view of an employee's or applicant's substance use history, aiding in making well-informed hiring and monitoring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Port Sewall, FL
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the risk of sample adulteration. The method ensures that results are reliable and credible, offering peace of mind to those who administer and rely on the outcomes of drug testing.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Port Sewall, FL
With a widespread network of testing centers, we're able to provide quick, easy, and accessible drug testing services. This nationwide presence ensures that clients can conveniently access our facilities without hassle.
Simple, Confidential Process in Port Sewall, FL
Our process for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair drug test results is both simple and confidential. By addressing privacy concerns and ensuring ease of use, we maintain a trusted service for all clients.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Port Sewall, FL
We offer competitive pricing structures paired with fast turnaround times, providing excellent value and peace of mind for companies of all sizes seeking reliable drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Port Sewall, FL
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their quick and precise results, offering unmatched accuracy in substance detection. This efficiency ensures that individuals and businesses get dependable outcomes, supporting informed decision-making in a timely manner.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Port Sewall, FL
Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns with workplace drug-free policies, aiding in compliance and reducing legal risks. Employers benefit from enhanced workplace safety and the assurance that policies are being upheld consistently.