Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has grown in popularity as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and various drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection timeframe of up to around 3 months for alcohol and other substances. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tough to tamper with, and simple to send.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 strands of hair (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests of more than 10 panels, it is recommended to collect 150mg of the sample. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is advised. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be gathered. When referring to head hair, it is specific to scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial processing of a sample into the lab’s system. This includes verifying the sample was securely sealed and transported, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug use on most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be valid in court. Any samples showing a presumptive positive in Screening need secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and meets ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests," the examination focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Timberwood Park, TX Opting for hair testing over traditional urine diagnostics provides significant advantages. Hair tests surpass urine in detecting extended substance histories, offering consistent results over longer timespans. This alternative showcases superior accuracy, presenting a more complete insight into an individual’s use history, critical for effective evaluation.
Extended Detection Window in Timberwood Park, TX One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its ability to uncover drug use over a span of 90 days. This extensive timeframe is invaluable for employers seeking comprehensive substance histories. By capturing a broader snapshot of past behaviors, companies can make informed decisions regarding candidate suitability or employee compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Timberwood Park, TX Hair follicle testing is renowned for its resistance to tampering, ensuring the integrity of each sample. With strict collection processes and advanced analysis techniques, the risk of adulteration is significantly reduced. These stringent measures guarantee reliability and credibility, making it a trusted choice for accurate drug testing.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Timberwood Park, TX Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation guarantees easy access to drug testing services. With centers located both nationwide and locally, testing is simple and convenient. These strategically placed facilities ensure efficient, hassle-free testing experiences for everyone.
Simple, Confidential Process in Timberwood Park, TX Our drug testing services prioritize both simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, the process is straightforward, protecting privacy at every step. Clients can confidently engage with our services, assured that their information remains secure and protected throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Timberwood Park, TX We take pride in offering competitive pricing structures alongside quick turnaround times. This combination guarantees excellent value, meeting the needs of businesses of all sizes. Our cost-effective solutions ensure swift, dependable results without compromising on quality or accuracy.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Timberwood Park, TX Hair follicle drug tests provide unparalleled precision in identifying substance use, offering benefits in both timing and accuracy. These tests efficiently recognize drug metabolites, delivering swift results that empower decision-making processes. Known for their reliability, hair tests detect a range of drugs efficiently, minimizing the wait for trustworthy outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Timberwood Park, TX Implementing hair follicle testing allows employers to uphold drug-free workplace policies with confidence. By utilizing this method, companies mitigate legal risks and enhance overall workplace safety. The assurance of compliance coupled with accurate testing empowers businesses, fostering a secure and compliant environment.
