Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective resource for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of alcohol and drugs by capturing biomarkers within the strands of the growing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer an approximately three-month detection window for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 strands of hair (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for both initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels beyond 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair isn't available, the same quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial handling of a sample into the lab’s system. This step confirms the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data input not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for court admissibility. Any samples indicating a presumptive positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive during the Screening phase, more hair from the initial sample is prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screen result is done through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation if needed. The full lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Plata, TX, hair follicle testing stands out over conventional urine tests regarding accuracy and reliability. Hair tests offer a superior detection window, allowing for a detailed assessment of substance history. The extended detection period captures drug use patterns over time, providing more comprehensive evaluations compared to urine tests.
In Plata, TX, hair follicle testing shines with its extended detection window, capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior. This feature is invaluable for employers seeking a thorough understanding of an applicant or employee's substance history. The longer timeframe offers a more detailed view of potential drug use, helping inform hiring and retention decisions.
Hair follicle testing in Plata, TX drastically reduces the risk of tampering, ensuring reliable results. The stringent nature of the collection method prevents adulteration, offering unquestionable authenticity. These tests provide peace of mind that the results accurately reflect substance use behavior without interference, making them a preferred choice for many professionals.
Access to testing services is straightforward in Plata, TX, thanks to our widespread network of testing centers. This convenience ensures quick and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing, catering to both local needs and those at more distant locations. The nationwide availability simplifies the testing process, offering ease and accessibility for all clients.
In Plata, TX, the process of ordering and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential. This ease of use addresses privacy concerns, simplifying the path from initial test request to obtaining results. Users value the peace of mind that comes with knowing their information is handled discreetly and securely.
Maintaining competitive pricing and delivering fast results are focal points for hair follicle tests in Plata, TX. This approach provides exceptional value for companies of any size, combining affordability with rapid service. Clients can rely on prompt turnaround, ensuring minimal disruption while adhering to budgetary constraints.
The precision and speed of hair follicle tests in Plata, TX make them a top choice. These tests boast high accuracy when detecting substance use. Their ability to provide fast, reliable results is invaluable for maintaining workplace safety. Users appreciate the quick turnaround times, which ensure that employers and individuals receive prompt feedback.
Hair follicle testing aids Plata, TX employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. Utilizing these tests mitigates legal risks and enhances safety, providing reassurance and peace of mind. Employers benefit from reduced liability and assured enforcement of workplace regulations, protecting both staff and business interests.
