Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant instrument for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a history of these substances by embedding biomarkers in the strands as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair can provide a detection period of up to three months for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, roughly 200 strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil), taken nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest measuring the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. Reference to head hair implies scalp hair exclusively, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in the laboratory procedure of drug test analysis include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This process verifies the correct sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfills any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. Although cost-efficient, a positive screening must be corroborated before being legally viable. Samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should a sample be presumptive positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are derived from hair at a considerably lower concentration than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most intricate methodology to administer.
Any positive screening outcome is authenticated via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive specimens undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite commonly being referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Echo, AL
Hair testing surpasses urine tests by offering more extensive detection windows and greater accuracy. These tests can identify long-term drug usage patterns, providing superior insights compared to conventional urine tests.
Employers in Echo, AL, favor hair testing due to its advanced detection capabilities, outweighing traditional urine testing in precision and reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Echo, AL
Hair follicle testing enables the identification of drug use over an extended period of up to 90 days. This extensive detection window allows for a detailed assessment of an individual's substance history.
With such an in-depth view, employers gain valuable insights, making informed decisions on hiring and maintaining a productive and safe workplace environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Echo, AL
Hair follicle tests are designed to minimize the risk of sample tampering. These tests are conducted under strict protocols that significantly enhance result reliability, ensuring credibility.
In Echo, AL, the adoption of hair follicle testing safeguards against adulteration fears, offering trusted outcomes and setting new standards in testing integrity.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Echo, AL
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures easy access to hair follicle testing services. With nationwide coverage, we provide quick, hassle-free test opportunities.
In Echo, AL, our convenient locations facilitate efficient testing procedures, avoiding delays and ensuring optimal service delivery for individuals and companies alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Echo, AL
The hair follicle testing procedure is straightforward, ensuring ease of completion. It prioritizes confidentiality, giving clients peace of mind about their privacy concerns.
From ordering to receiving results, the process in Echo, AL is designed for seamless experiences, respecting the privacy and needs of individuals getting tested.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Echo, AL
Hair follicle tests are priced competitively, offering value without compromising quality. Companies benefit from the cost-efficiency of these tests conducted rapidly.
In Echo, AL, the combination of attractive pricing structures and swift processing times makes these tests a valuable asset for businesses aiming for cost-effective solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Echo, AL
Hair follicle tests stand out for their exceptional precision in detecting substance use. Unlike traditional methods, they ensure quick and accurate outcomes, boosting trust in results with their superior testing capabilities.
The reliability and speed of hair follicle testing make it a top choice for those seeking dependable substance detection solutions in Echo, AL, ensuring timely and accurate assessments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Echo, AL
Employers benefit from hair follicle testing as it aligns with drug-free workplace policies. This compliance reduces potential legal issues, reinforcing workplace safety standards.
The assurance of a drug-free organizational environment offers peace of mind, making hair testing an ideal choice for risk management in Echo, AL.