Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for tracing drug and alcohol usage. Hair traps biomarkers within the strands as it grows, providing a longer-term record of substance use. Collecting hair near the scalp yields a detection window of up to three months for substances like alcohol or other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, with minimal risk of tampering, and it is easy to transport.
To obtain a suitable sample, cut 1.5 inches of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, resulting in 100mg of hair, the perfect amount for screening and confirmation. For tests such as EtG or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for accuracy is recommended. If scalp hair is not accessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. It is important to note that head hair specifically means scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types of hair (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test follows four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step, where a sample is introduced into a lab’s system. This phase includes confirming proper sealing and shipment of the sample, generating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and processing any additional necessary data if an electronic chain of custody system doesn’t provide it.
Screening provides a preliminary assessment for drug presence. Though cost-effective in excluding drug use in many samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for legal proceedings. Samples that are initially positive in Screening must undergo further confirmation.
A sample deemed positive in the Screening requires additional hair from the primary specimen for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from the hair at much lower levels than methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening notably challenging.
Positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples with presumed positive outcomes are cleaned before Confirmation as necessary. Every aspect of the process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: These tests, though often labeled as "hair follicle tests," assess the hair strand itself, not the follicle lying beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Red Oak, LA
In Red Oak, LA, hair follicle tests surpass urine tests by offering superior detection capabilities and enhanced reliability. Unlike urine tests, which have shorter detection timelines, hair tests reveal substance use over extended periods. Employers find these tests significantly advantageous for maintaining workplace integrity.
Extended Detection Window in Red Oak, LA
Hair follicle testing in Red Oak, LA, shines with its extended detection window, covering up to 90 days of drug use. This long-term overview aids employers in evaluating the substance habits of employees or applicants, presenting a thorough assessment of their history and reinforcing responsible hiring practices.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Red Oak, LA
In Red Oak, LA, hair follicle testing is known for its significant reduction in sample tampering risks. The method delivers reliable and undeniable test results, ensuring a high-grade testing process. This tamper-proof nature makes it a trustworthy solution in scenarios where integrity is of utmost importance.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Red Oak, LA
Accessing drug testing services is hassle-free with our widespread centers across the nation, including Red Oak, LA. The convenience of our facilities ensures an easy, quick process for all testing needs, providing individuals and companies with reliable, accessible locations across the region.
Simple, Confidential Process in Red Oak, LA
In Red Oak, LA, our drug testing process is both simple and private, allowing for easy ordering, undertaking, and result reception. We address privacy concerns with discretion, ensuring that clients experience a streamlined and confidential process throughout their interaction with us.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Red Oak, LA
Our competitive pricing and swift result timelines in Red Oak, LA, guarantee businesses excellent value. We cater to companies of all sizes, ensuring our services are both cost-effective and efficient, fostering an environment of fast-paced, high-quality drug testing results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Red Oak, LA
In Red Oak, LA, hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their speed and high precision. They swiftly pinpoint substance use, offering an indisputable edge over traditional methods. The effectiveness of these tests lies in their advanced ability to recognize drug compounds with accuracy, ensuring swift and precise results every time.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Red Oak, LA
Utilizing hair follicle testing provides Red Oak employers with assurance in upholding drug-free workplace policies. It helps mitigate legal liabilities and promotes a secure work atmosphere. These tests uphold policy adherence and offer employers peace of mind with their rigorous compliance standards.
