Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture long-term biomarkers, offering a historical record of substance use. When hair is taken near the scalp, it reveals alcohol and drug use over the past three months. This method is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and conveniently shipped.
A segment of 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair cannot be provided, a similar quantity of body hair is an alternative. When mentioning head hair, it pertains only to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four critical stages in laboratory drug test result processing are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial intake of a sample into a lab’s system. This process checks that the specimen is correctly sealed and delivered, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts a preliminary swift analysis for drug use. Screening provides a cost-effective method to eliminate drug use suspicion for most samples, but a positive outcome requires further confirmation to be legally valid. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
For samples testing positive during Screening, further hair extraction from the original sample is undertaken for the Extraction phase. At this stage, drugs are separated from hair at lesser concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid tests), making hair drug screening a more complex procedure.
Confirmation of any positive screenings is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is subjected to scrutiny under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in New Site, AL
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, several advantages become clear. Hair testing in New Site, AL boasts superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests that cover a shorter timeframe, hair tests provide a more comprehensive snapshot of an individual's substance use, proving invaluable for employers and legal settings prioritizing accuracy.
Extended Detection Window in New Site, AL
With a detection period of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing in New Site, AL offers a longer window to identify drug use. This extended timeline provides employers a detailed view of an applicant or employee's substance habits, making it an excellent choice for thorough screenings. This method demonstrates a longstanding reliability in creating safer workplaces.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in New Site, AL
The hair follicle test is known for its resistance to tampering, greatly minimizing the risk of adulterated samples. This quality ensures that results are both reliable and unquestionable. In New Site, AL, organizations appreciate the confidence that comes with knowing their testing procedures yield trustworthy outcomes, essential for upholding strict drug policies.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in New Site, AL
Accredited Drug Testing provides conveniently located centers, both nationwide and locally in New Site, AL, ensuring easy access to drug testing services. This wide network facilitates a swift and hassle-free testing experience for individuals and businesses alike, emphasizing our commitment to accessibility and efficiency.
Simple, Confidential Process in New Site, AL
Our process for hair follicle testing in New Site, AL, is both straightforward and confidential. Clients appreciate the ease of ordering, undergoing the test, and receiving results, all while maintaining privacy. This streamlined approach addresses user concerns, simplifying what could otherwise be a complex and daunting task.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in New Site, AL
Accredited Drug Testing in New Site, AL, offers competitive pricing structures coupled with swift turnaround times. This balance ensures excellent value for businesses of all sizes, providing peace of mind that their drug testing needs will be met efficiently and cost-effectively.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in New Site, AL
Hair follicle drug tests offer a combination of speed and precision, standing out as a highly accurate method for detecting substance use. The swift results ensure that decisions related to employment or legal matters can be made promptly. In New Site, AL, hair testing is deemed a reliable method, providing the assurance stakeholders need in important evaluations.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in New Site, AL
Incorporating hair follicle testing within workplace policies in New Site, AL, ensures businesses remain compliant with drug-free regulations. Utilizing this method reduces legal risks and enhances the overall safety of the work environment. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their drug testing procedures align with stringent standards and promote a secure workplace.
