Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective resource for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair gives a comprehensive historical record of drug and alcohol consumption by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. Hair, collected closest to the scalp, offers a 3-month detection period for alcohol and other drugs. The collection process is easy, it's relatively tamper-proof, and it can be shipped effortlessly.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) near the scalp, will yield 100mg, which is an ideal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or more than 10 panels, 150mg of specimen is advised. The specimen should be weighed using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. Reference to head hair pertains exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Overview of Process
The laboratory process for drug testing involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. This stage involves checks to confirm the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, the assignment of a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and any necessary additional data entry for an electronic chain of custody system not completed.
Screening encompasses a preliminary rapid inspection for the presence of drugs. While Screening is economical for ruling out drug use in most cases, any positive screening needs confirmation to be legally valid. Samples with presumptive positives in Screening necessitate a secondary verification.
Subsequent to a presumptive positive result in Screening, additional hair is gathered from the original specimen for the Extraction stage. In Extraction, drugs are extracted at a lower concentration level than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening a challenging method to execute.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are utilized for positive screening result Confirmation. All presumptive positive specimens undergo washing prior to Confirmation when necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the comprehensive laboratory process is supervised under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Constraints:
Note: Although often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
In Heflin, AL, hair follicle testing offers compelling advantages over traditional urine tests.
Its superior accuracy in detecting a wider range of substances ensures reliable results.
Unlike urine tests, hair testing is not easily influenced by temporary detox methods.
These qualities underscore its effectiveness in drug screening protocols.
The expansive detection window of hair tests contrasts sharply with urine tests' limitations.
This leads to a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use history.
Employers increasingly favor hair testing for its robustness and heightened detection capabilities.
Employers in Heflin, AL, benefit from the extended detection window of hair follicle testing.
Unlike other methods, it identifies drug use up to 90 days prior.
This period offers a thorough overview of an individual’s substance history, aiding decision-making.
Hair tests provide insights that are crucial for assessing long-term patterns of use.
The lengthy detection period ensures that no recent drug use goes unnoticed.
It provides a detailed assessment that urine or saliva tests can't match.
Consequently, hair follicle testing becomes an essential tool for comprehensive screenings.
Hair follicle testing in Heflin, AL, is known for its tamper-resistant nature.
The collection method makes it difficult for individuals to alter or adulterate samples.
This reliability makes it a preferred choice for settings requiring definitive results.
The test's inherent resistance to manipulation adds a layer of credibility.
The stringent observation and collection process eliminates opportunities for cheating.
It assures that the results are genuine and reflect accurate substance use.
Thus, employers gain peace of mind from the unquestionable integrity of hair tests.
Our nationwide testing centers, including those in Heflin, AL, offer exceptional convenience.
The widespread network ensures clients can access services effortlessly.
This allows for streamlined testing processes, reducing delays and logistical challenges.
Clients appreciate the localized options that meet their specific testing needs.
The availability of local testing facilities simplifies the entire procedure.
Quick access to these centers minimizes travel and waiting times for participants.
Convenience is a hallmark of our services, ensuring a seamless experience.
In Heflin, AL, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential.
From ordering to results, each step is designed for ease and privacy.
This simplicity encourages participation and compliance without anxiety over data security.
Participants are assured their information is protected throughout the process.
The clarity of the process homes in on user-friendly experiences.
Confidentiality is maintained rigorously, meeting all privacy standards.
These attributes make hair testing an appealing option for employers and participants alike.
Our services in Heflin, AL, offer affordable pricing without compromising on quality.
Competitive rates make drug testing accessible to companies of various sizes.
Fast turnaround times ensure we meet tight deadlines, adding value to our offerings.
The cost-effective nature provides peace of mind while maintaining service excellence.
Clients benefit from the combination of affordability and speed.
Affordable pricing does not detract from the accuracy and reliability of test results.
Our service package includes exceptional value alongside quick and accurate deliverables.
The speed and precision of hair follicle drug tests make them unmatched in Heflin, AL.
Utilizing advanced technology, these tests accurately detect substance abuse.
The quick processing time ensures timely results, allowing for swift decision-making.
The high accuracy rate provides confidence in the test outcomes, ensuring reliability.
Employers appreciate the fast turnaround of hair follicle tests, crucial for maintaining efficiency.
The rapid results enable immediate response to any drug-related concerns.
This testing method significantly reduces the waiting period, unlike traditional methods.
Hair follicle testing supports compliance and offers peace of mind to employers in Heflin, AL.
Utilizing this method aligns with drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal exposure.
By adopting hair tests, companies demonstrate a commitment to safety and compliance.
The procedure's reliability alleviates concerns of non-compliance with regulatory standards.
Employers can trust hair follicle testing to enhance workplace safety.
The comprehensive detection window ensures monitoring of substance use effectively.
Implementing these tests helps maintain a safe and productive working environment.