Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a significant method for detecting substances and alcohol use. Hair strands effectively capture biomarkers within their fibers, providing an extended period history of drug and alcohol consumption. When clipped near the scalp, hair can offer around a 3-month detection window for substances and alcohol. Collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and can be easily mailed.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal sample size for testing. For additional assessments like EtG, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, around 150mg of the hair specimen is advisable. It's suggested to use a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample. If head hair is not available, an equivalent portion of body hair may be used. Specifically, when mentioning head hair, it denotes scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test follows four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is processed into the lab's system. This involves ensuring the sample was securely sealed and correctly mailed, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any further data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a swift initial test for substances of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a confirmed positive screen is necessary to be permissible in legal scenarios. Any samples identified as potentially positive during Screening require secondary confirmation.
When a sample tests potentially positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction process. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than through other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most challenging technique to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards compliance.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Algoa, TX
Hair testing offers superior detection over urine testing by identifying substance use over a much longer period. Employers, courts, and substance professionals prioritize hair testing for its extended detection window and difficulty in cheating. The method’s accuracy and reliability make it a preferred choice over traditional urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Algoa, TX
Hair follicle testing advantages include its ability to detect drug use over a protracted period, typically up to 90 days. This longer window provides employers a detailed insight into an individual's history, enabling more informed decisions regarding substance use patterns.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Algoa, TX
The hair follicle drug test is designed to be tamper-resistant, significantly reducing the risk of sample adulteration. This reliability supports unquestionable results, giving employers and authorities increased confidence in the outcomes of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Algoa, TX
Accredited Drug Testing boasts testing centers throughout the country, including Algoa, TX. Our widespread accessibility ensures quick and hassle-free testing services, meeting the needs of employers and individuals seeking efficient drug testing processes.
Simple, Confidential Process in Algoa, TX
The process of ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and discreet. Individuals can trust in the confidentiality and ease of use, with privacy maintained throughout the testing procedure. This helps alleviate concerns regarding testing privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Algoa, TX
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing and quick turnaround times. We ensure excellent value for companies of all sizes, rendering peace of mind through cost-effective and efficient drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Algoa, TX
Hair follicle drug testing provides swift results with remarkable accuracy. This method precisely identifies substance use, reducing error risk and ensuring reliability. The quick processing time and detailed outcomes make it highly effective for employers needing prompt and accurate drug testing solutions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Algoa, TX
Using hair follicle testing ensures employers meet compliance standards with workplace drug-free policies. These tests minimize legal risks and enhance safety by providing reliable substance use insights, effectively supporting zero-tolerance policies.
