Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Auburn, GA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair records a comprehensive history of alcohol and drugs by capturing biomarkers within its fibers as it grows. When taken from near the scalp, hair can offer up to a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect hair, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch hair sample consisting of approximately 200 strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and confirmation processes. For EtG tests, additional assays, or tests comprising more than 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for measuring the specimen is suggested. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically means scalp hair, while body hair includes other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The lab processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is incorporated into a lab’s framework. This step involves confirming the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concluding any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary cursory check for drugs of abuse. It is a cost-effective method for ruling out drug usage in the majority of samples; however, a positive screen requires confirmation to be legally admissible. Presumptively positive samples in Screening need further confirmation.

When a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and processed for Extraction. Drugs are isolated from hair at a substantially lower concentration in this stage than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies to execute.

Confirmation of any positive screening result is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation when necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and is accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Long detection window: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests, which have a shorter detection window.
• Difficulty to cheat: It is highly challenging to tamper with a hair drug test, resulting in more reliable outcomes.
• Provides historical data: Hair drug tests can reveal a pattern of drug use over time, not just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect recent use: Drugs become detectable in hair after approximately 5–7 days.
• Cost: Hair drug tests generally incur higher expenses compared to other testing methods.
• Variations in results: Hair color and individual differences in hair growth may alter the concentration of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests actually analyze the hair strand and not the scalp’s hair follicle.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing in Auburn, GA offers numerous advantages over traditional urine tests. A primary benefit is its accurate and reliable detection capability, superior in identifying long-term drug use. Hair tests are less invasive and are less susceptible to evasion efforts, making them a preferred choice for comprehensive substance screening.

Extended Detection Window

In Auburn, GA, hair follicle testing grants an extended detection window for drug use, up to 90 days. This long-term perspective provides employers a deeper insight into an individual’s substance history, allowing for well-informed decisions on employment and maintaining a safe work environment.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Employers in Auburn, GA benefit from the tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing methods. This technique significantly reduces the risk of sample tampering, ensuring that results remain credible and unquestionable. It offers a reliable solution for authentic and honest drug testing.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With convenient testing locations nationwide, including Auburn, GA, accessing hair follicle testing is simple and hassle-free. Our expansive network ensures that testing services are quick and easily accessible, providing both local and widespread support for substance testing needs.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Auburn, GA, the process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, every step is designed to prioritize privacy and ease of use, dispelling concerns and guaranteeing user-friendly access to substance testing solutions.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Our hair follicle testing services in Auburn, GA offer competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times. This ensures excellent value, catering to companies of any size and providing the peace of mind that comes with efficient, budget-friendly testing options.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The speed and accuracy of hair follicle drug tests in Auburn, GA make them an ideal solution. These tests offer high precision when detecting substances, ensuring that results are fast and reliable. This methodology eliminates doubt and provides clarity for both employers and individuals seeking assurance of a substance-free status.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Hair follicle testing in Auburn, GA assures compliance with workplace drug-free policies, offering employers peace of mind. By reducing legal risks and promoting safety, this method enhances overall workplace harmony and compliance, reinforcing a healthy and productive working environment.

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