Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an influential method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When cut near the scalp, hair offers a detection range for drugs and alcohol of up to roughly three months. Collection is straightforward, tampering is difficult, and transportation is convenient.
A segment of hair measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the preferred sample size for testing and verification. For EtG, additional analyses, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for measurement is recommended. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent volume of body hair is acceptable. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The principal phases in the lab analysis of a drug test include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning denotes the initial sample processing within a lab’s infrastructure. It verifies proper sealing and transit of the sample, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any outstanding data not captured by an electronic custody chain.
Screening is a preliminary inspection for substances of abuse. Though it efficiently eliminates drug use in numerous samples, positive results must be substantiated for legal validity. Samples that test positive in Screening require confirmatory testing.
Should the Screening indicate a positive result, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from the hair at noticeably lower concentrations compared to alternatives such as urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening one of the most challenging techniques.
Confirming any positive screening outcome is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing where necessary prior to confirmation. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review adhering to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 certification standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Gallman, MS Hair testing offers several advantages over conventional urine tests. The longer detection window and resistance to tampering make it more reliable. Employers seeking precise results favor hair tests, which can reveal drug use patterns that urine tests may miss, ensuring impeccable accuracy.
Extended Detection Window in Gallman, MS Hair follicle tests provide the benefit of an extended detection period, reaching up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a more comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use history, beyond what shorter-term methods can offer.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Gallman, MS The integrity of hair follicle tests is formidable, significantly reducing the potential for sample tampering. This reliability means that results are authentic and dependable, granting peace of mind to employers and stakeholders alike.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Gallman, MS Our broad network of testing centers ensures that accessing drug testing services is seamless and efficient. Whether local or national, our facilities guarantee that you receive timely and straightforward testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Gallman, MS Our hair follicle testing process is straightforward and discreet. From ordering to receiving results, each step respects the privacy of individuals, putting concerns at ease and ensuring an easy-to-follow journey from start to finish.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Gallman, MS Competitive pricing coupled with rapid result times defines our service offerings. We pride ourselves in delivering cost-effective solutions that cater to businesses of varying sizes, providing value while maintaining quick and accurate testing.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Gallman, MS Hair follicle drug testing shines with its swift yet precise detection capabilities. In comparison to other methods, it consistently demonstrates heightened accuracy in identifying substance use, giving testers confidence in the validity and immediacy of the results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Gallman, MS By utilizing hair follicle testing, employers ensure alignment with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks and fostering a safer environment. The assurance provided by these tests contributes to a culture of accountability and safety.
