Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Pisgah, AL

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a potent method for identifying alcohol and drug use. Hair retains a record of drug and alcohol consumption over time by capturing biomarkers within the growing hair's fibers. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Collection of hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to alterations, and easy to send.

A 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (equivalent to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for testing and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the specimen is advised. We suggest measuring the specimen using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is missing, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. In the context of head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory procedure for determining a drug test result comprises four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial step of processing a sample into a lab’s system. This step includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and handling any other data input not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening serves as a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient approach to determine the absence of drug use for most samples, a positive result from Screening must be verified to hold up in a court setting. Samples yielding a presumptive positive during Screening require further confirmation.

If a sample indicates a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. This stage involves removing drugs from hair at much lower levels than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex methodology to carry out.

Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing beforehand as needed. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes examination under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the standard accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug testing can capture drug use for as long as 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a shorter detection period.
• Challenging to deceive: It is very challenging to manipulate the results of a hair drug test, thereby increasing its accuracy.
• Offers historical information: It can show a use pattern over time, rather than only recent usage.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: Drugs become detectable in hair approximately 5-7 days after use.
• Expense: Hair drug testing generally costs more compared to other drug testing techniques.
• Result variations: Elements such as hair color and individual hair growth differences may influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Even though commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand, not the hair follicle underneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Pisgah, AL, hair follicle testing proves superior to urine testing for multiple reasons. Its benefits significantly outshine those of traditional methods.

Exceptional Detection
Hair follicle tests capture a comprehensive drug-use history, unlike urine tests. Their extended detection window and reliability make them the preferred choice for employers.

Unmatched Accuracy

• Reliable results with advanced detection capabilities.
• Less prone to manipulation compared to urine tests.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection period, up to 90 days, benefitting employers in Pisgah, AL. It provides a thorough view of an individual's substance history.

Comprehensive Insight
This method allows employers to understand an applicant or employee's drug use better.

• An extended timeframe captures more substance use data.
• Helps in making informed employment decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Pisgah, AL, hair follicle testing presents a tamper-resistant method, significantly minimizing the risk of sample adulteration.

Uncompromising Reliability

• Hair samples are difficult to falsify compared to urine.
• Ensures accuracy and credibility of results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Our nationwide network of testing centers, including local options in Pisgah, AL, offers convenience and accessibility for hair follicle testing.

Easy Access

• Quick and hassle-free testing services.
• Testing centers in numerous locations ensure streamlined processes.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Pisgah, AL, the hair follicle drug testing procedure is simple and confidential, prioritizing ease of use and privacy.

Seamless Process

• Ordering and taking tests are straightforward.
• Results are provided securely.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable pricing and quick turnaround times are cornerstones of our services in Pisgah, AL, reinforcing the value of hair follicle testing.

Competitive Pricing

• Cost-effective options for businesses of all sizes.
• Fast processing ensures results are delivered in a timely manner.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle drug testing in Pisgah, AL, offers rapid, precise, and reliable results. Notably, these tests have exceptional accuracy for detecting substance use, providing peace of mind.

Precision at its Best

• Hair tests are renowned for their high accuracy.
• They outperform traditional methods by detecting a wide range of substances effectively.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

For employers in Pisgah, AL, hair follicle testing ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies, bringing peace of mind.

Embrace Compliance

• Hair testing supports legal and policy adherence.
• Reduces potential legal risks associated with non-compliance.

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