Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures biomarkers within the strands of the growing hair, offering a comprehensive history of drug and alcohol intake. When collected near the scalp, hair samples provide a detection period of up to 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair sample, approximately 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp, amounts to 100mg, which is perfect for screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It's recommended to use a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be gathered. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The core procedures in processing a drug test result in a laboratory include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory’s system, encompassing verification of the sample's sealing and correct shipping, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and additional data entry if not already included in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a primary assessment for drug abuse indicators. Although it is a cost-efficient way to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a positive screen mandates confirmation to be legally acceptable. Presumptive positive samples in Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
Should a sample return a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair from the initial sample is used for Extraction. During this step, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations relative to other testing methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), establishing hair drug testing as a particularly challenging technique.
Confirmation for any positive screen results involves testing via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Needed washing of all presumptive positives is performed before confirmation. The full laboratory sequence from Accessioning through Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often described as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
The advantages of hair follicle testing over urine testing in Greenville, AL, are clear. Greater detection accuracy and reliability make it the preferred choice for many. Unlike urine tests, hair tests can reveal drug use from longer ago, providing a more comprehensive picture of substance use. Employers appreciate the enhanced reliability, aligned with zero-tolerance policies to ensure a drug-free workplace.
Hair follicle testing in Greenville, AL, provides an extended detection window for substance use. This method can trace drug consumption up to 90 days, offering employers a thorough insight into an individual's substance history. It's an invaluable tool for assessing long-term drug use trends, ensuring decisions are based on comprehensive historical data.
In Greenville, AL, hair follicle testing stands out as a tamper-resistant method. The integrity of the sample remains intact, dramatically reducing the likelihood of adulteration. This robust method ensures the results are unquestionably reliable, providing confidence to employers that the data reflects genuine substance use without manipulation.
With numerous testing centers nationwide, including in Greenville, AL, convenience is a key advantage. Accessible and hassle-free, these locations ensure that testing services are readily available for everyone. Quick and easy access means that individuals and businesses can efficiently meet their testing needs without difficulty.
In Greenville, AL, the hair follicle testing process is both simple and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, the entire experience is designed to be user-friendly, keeping privacy top priority. Individuals can rest assured knowing their information remains confidential throughout the process.
With competitive pricing and fast turnaround times, hair follicle testing in Greenville, AL, offers exceptional value. Suitable for companies of all sizes, affordable options ensure that businesses can maintain their drug-free workplace programs without financial strain. The rapid receipt of results further adds to the peace of mind.
In Greenville, AL, the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests stand out. Fast and reliable, these tests accurately identify substance use, ensuring confidence in the results. Detailed analysis methods ensure not just rapid testing, but also superior accuracy, making them ideal for employers seeking assurance in the safety and compliance of their workforce.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Greenville, AL, offers employers peace of mind and ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method not only reduces legal risks but also promotes a safer working environment. Employers can trust in the comprehensive insights provided, reinforcing their commitment to a healthy, productive workplace.
