Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a historical record of substances like alcohol by embedding biomarkers within the hair fibers. When cut near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use over an approximate span of three months. The collection process for hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and easy to send.
A hair sample of around 1.5 inches with approximately 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness) near the scalp equates to 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is advised. If scalp hair is not accessible, a corresponding amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically indicate scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The four primary phases in processing a drug test in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step to integrate a sample into a laboratory’s system, involving verification of sample sealing and shipment, assigning a Laboratory Accessioning Number, and completing any necessary manual data entry that is not included in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening allows for an initial assessment for abused substances. Although Screening offers a cost-effective method to eliminate drug use in numerous samples, any positive results need confirmation for legal acceptability. Presumptive positives from Screening must undergo confirmation.
When a sample tests positive in Screening, more hair is taken from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are removed from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other testing methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation of any positive result from Screening is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as required. This end-to-end lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle under the scalp.
Choosing hair follicle testing over traditional methods like urine tests offers remarkable advantages in Ozark, AL. Hair tests showcase superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair tests can track substance use over a longer period, giving a fuller picture of an individual’s substance history. The enhanced detection capabilities make it a more trustworthy option for various testing needs.
In Ozark, AL, the extended detection window of hair follicle testing serves as a significant advantage. Detecting drug use for up to 90 days, this method allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an applicant or employee's substance history. This extended window is crucial for making informed decisions regarding hiring and maintaining a drug-free workplace environment.
Hair follicle testing in Ozark, AL, offers a tamper-resistant method that drastically diminishes the chances of sample adulteration. The credibility and integrity of the test results are maintained, presenting reliable and unquestionable outcomes. With less risk of manipulation, stakeholders can trust the findings to reflect true substance use patterns.
We provide convenient nationwide and local testing locations in Ozark, AL, ensuring quick and hassle-free access to our hair follicle testing services. The accessibility of our testing centers means that whether you're in a bustling city or a smaller community, you can count on us for your drug testing needs swiftly and conveniently.
The process for hair follicle testing in Ozark, AL, is both simple and confidential. From placing an order to sample collection and receiving results, the procedure is designed to safeguard privacy, ensuring participants feel at ease. Our streamlined approach addresses privacy concerns and provides a stress-free experience for all users.
In Ozark, AL, we offer affordable pricing and fast turnaround for hair follicle testing, providing unmatched value for companies of any size. Our competitive pricing structures alongside quick result delivery contribute to peace of mind, ensuring businesses stay informed without breaking the bank.
In Ozark, AL, hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their fast, accurate, and reliable results. When it comes to identifying substance use, these tests stand out for their precision and speed. Individuals and organizations alike can count on the high accuracy of these tests in detecting various substances, making them a preferred choice for those requiring timely and dependable testing outcomes.
For employers in Ozark, AL, hair follicle testing is a path to compliance and peace of mind. By integrating this testing into workplace policies, companies can ensure adherence to drug-free regulations, lowering legal risks. This enhances overall workplace safety, allowing employers to focus on productivity and the wellbeing of their workforce.
