Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Prattville, AL

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting substance use, both drugs and alcohol. Hair serves as a record of alcohol and drug consumption over time by encapsulating biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. Hair gathered from near the scalp offers a detection window of up to around three months for drugs and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to send.

Sampling involves taking a 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands (the diameter of a #2 pencil) from closest to the scalp, equating to 100mg—ideal for both initial and confirmatory testing. For assessments like EtG, add-ons, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. When we mention head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. In contrast, body hair includes all other varieties (such as facial and underarm hair).

Process Overview

The key stages in processing a drug test in the lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning involves the sample's setup in the laboratory system, ensuring it was securely sealed and transported, assigning it a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entries not already covered by an electronic system.

Screening consists of an initial quick examination for drug use. Although Screening offers an economical means of excluding drug use for most samples, a positive result in screening needs verification for legal proceedings. Presumptive positives from Screening must undergo subsequent confirmation.

If Screening suggests a positive result, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for the Extraction procedure. During this phase, drugs are extracted from the hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug testing particularly challenging.

Confirmation of a positive screen result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Every potential positive sample is cleaned prior to confirmation as required. The complete lab workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and in accordance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug testing can identify drug use up to 90 days, while urine testing has a shorter window.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating on a hair drug test is highly challenging, ensuring more reliable outcomes.
• Offers consumption trends: It reveals a history of drug use over time, rather than just recent usage.

Limitations:

• Incapable of identifying recent usage: Drugs are detectable in hair only after approximately 5-7 days.
• Expense: Generally, hair drug testing costs more than other drug testing techniques.
• Result variation: Factors such as hair color and individual growth differences can alter drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", this test evaluates the strands of hair rather than the follicle beneath the skin.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why do hair follicle tests outshine urine tests in Prattville, AL? Hair testing's biggest advantage is its enhanced detection capabilities over time, accurately identifying substance intake far beyond the abilities of urine testing.

Compared to traditional urine tests, the reliability of hair follicle testing is unmatched. With a broader detection window, it offers an outstanding solution for employers seeking to uphold drug-free environments consistently.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Prattville, AL, boasts a significantly extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior, this test provides employers with a comprehensive review of a candidate or employee's substance habits over time.

The prolonged detection capability of hair follicle testing far surpasses traditional methods, making it the preferred choice for tracking long-term substance use, thus allowing for more informed decision-making in employment settings.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Prattville, AL, hair follicle tests offer a tamper-resistant method to ensure integrity. This significantly minimizes the risk of adulteration seen in other testing methods, providing reliable results that can be trusted unequivocally.

The robust nature of hair follicle testing makes it nearly impervious to cheating, rendering it a strong deterrent against tampering and ensuring peace of mind for companies seeking validated results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Accredited Drug Testing offers conveniently accessible centers for hair follicle testing across the nation, including in Prattville, AL. This ensures easy access to services, providing hassle-free and quick solutions to testing needs.

The presence of local and nationwide testing locations means that individuals and employers can enjoy seamless access to testing services, ensuring that the process is as efficient and uncomplicated as possible.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Prattville, AL, is both simple and confidential. The straightforward steps from ordering to receiving results ensure a smooth experience while prioritizing the privacy of each individual tested.

This process is designed to alleviate any privacy concerns, offering a secure way for employers and individuals to obtain necessary information without the complexities often associated with drug testing.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Prattville, AL, beneficiaries of hair follicle testing enjoy competitive pricing models and swift result processing. Our services offer value and peace of mind, assuring decision-makers of all company sizes of financial and operational benefits.

The affordability paired with a rapid turnaround makes hair follicle testing an attractive option, minimizing downtime and ensuring that companies can make informed decisions quickly and economically.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Prattville, AL, hair follicle drug tests provide results with remarkable speed and precision. The ability to detect substance use with high accuracy makes this method exceptionally reliable, ensuring employers receive dependable data quickly.

The advanced technology behind hair follicle testing delivers fast, accurate diagnosis. This ensures thorough detection of drugs, offering peace of mind and a superior assessment tool for both employers and individuals.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Utilizing hair follicle testing in Prattville, AL, ensures compliance with workplace drug policies. Employers enjoy enhanced safety and reduced legal risks, promoting a secure and healthy work environment.

The adoption of hair testing helps businesses maintain a drug-free workplace, reinforcing company values while offering peace of mind in knowing they are meeting regulatory and ethical standards.

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