Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective means to identify drug and alcohol consumption. This method offers a prolonged record of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the growing hair strands. When gathered near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug usage for around a 3-month period. This collection method is not only easy and hard to tamper with but also straightforward to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in thickness), will produce 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair isn’t an option, an equivalent portion of body hair can be used. Specifically, head hair refers only to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The drug test result processing at the laboratory consists of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial sample processing into a lab system. This stage verifies the secure sealing and proper shipment of the sample, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and completes any necessary data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug usage in most samples, positive findings require confirmation for legal proceedings. Samples with presumptive positivity in Screening necessitate further verification.
For presumptive positives in the Screening phase, additional hair from the original sample undergoes preparation for Extraction. Here, drug extraction from hair occurs at concentrations much lower than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging to execute.
Confirmation of any positive results from screening is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are washed as necessary before confirmation. The complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Surpasses Urine Testing in Fackler, AL
In Fackler, AL, hair follicle testing excels by offering superior detection accuracy and reliability compared to urine tests. While urine tests can detect recent drug use, hair analysis provides a wider detection window, capturing substance use history over months. The comprehensive nature of hair testing shows pronounced benefits, ensuring precise insights essential for employers and professionals.
Extended Detection Window in Fackler, AL
For businesses in Fackler, AL, hair follicle tests provide a long-term view of an individual’s drug use over the last 90 days. This detailed observation permits a thorough analysis of substance history, essential for potential hires or current employees. Employers gain insight into patterns of use, aiding in making informed decisions regarding workforce management.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Fackler, AL
Hair follicle tests significantly mitigate the chances of adulteration, offering results that are robust and trustworthy. In Fackler, AL, this testing method stands as a guard against manipulation, ensuring specimen integrity, and delivering reliable outcomes. Such security measures manifest confidence among employers and court systems, vital for upholding honest assessments.
Convenient Locations Nationwide and Locally in Fackler, AL
Our extensive network of testing centers, including locations in Fackler, AL, ensures efficient, straightforward access to testing services Nationwide. This extensive reach grants employers and individuals the convenience of nearby facilities, eliminating hassle and allowing quick and seamless testing experiences. Such accessibility supports compliance with minimal effort.
Simple, Confidential Process in Fackler, AL
The testing process in Fackler, AL is designed for simplicity and confidentiality, addressing any privacy concerns for individuals and businesses alike. The seamless procedure—ordering, obtaining, and reviewing results—ensures ease of use without compromising the sensitive nature of the personal information involved. This approach builds trust, enhancing client confidence.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Fackler, AL
Our competitive pricing in Fackler, AL delivers great value, catering to various business sizes while maintaining fast turnaround times for hair follicle testing. The affordable structure assures companies a cost-effective avenue for implementing testing policies, allowing them to receive prompt results without financial strain, thus providing peace of mind and sound investment.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Outcomes in Fackler, AL
Hair follicle testing in Fackler, AL delivers prompt and precise results for substance use detection. These tests are trusted for their unmatched accuracy, ensuring reliable identification of drug usage. The method's speed and detail contribute to a seamless experience, highlighting its consensus as a trustworthy tool in identifying recent and historical substance consumption.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Fackler, AL
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Fackler, AL affirms adherence to workplace drug-free standards, minimizing legal liabilities. This method strengthens safety protocols, allowing businesses to protect both employees and their reputation. With a comprehensive approach, employers enhance their work environment, fostering a productive and secure operational culture.