Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a lengthy record of alcohol and drug use by securing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can offer an approximate detection period of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.
Collecting a 1.5-inch segment encompassing about 200 strands of hair (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is considered the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG assessments, add-ons, or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale is suggested for measuring the specimen. If scalp hair is not present, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be obtained. References to head hair specifically denote scalp hair. Conversely, body hair pertains to all other hair types (facial hair, underarm hair, etc.).
Process Overview
Four key phases are involved in processing a drug test result in the lab: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage where a sample enters the lab’s system. This step involves ensuring the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry that isn't covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial quick assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening offers a cost-efficient method to exclude drug usage in the majority of samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for it to be admissible in legal proceedings. Any samples that test positive during Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
If a sample tests positive during the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at a lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug testing is one of the more challenging methodologies.
Confirmation of positive screening results is accomplished using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair program and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although known as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Outperforms Urine Tests in Safford, AL
The superior reliability of hair follicle tests stands out when compared to urine tests. In Safford, many employers appreciate the extended detection window and resistance to tampering offered by hair tests, making them an essential tool in ensuring accurate substance detection over urine tests.
While urine tests capture more immediate substance use, they lack the long-term insight that hair tests provide. For companies in Safford, AL, hair testing's extensive detection period and resilient accuracy outshine traditional methods, delivering comprehensive insights into drug use histories.
Extended Detection Window: A Safford Advantage
The remarkable feature of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use up to 90 days prior. This capability allows employers in Safford to gain a thorough understanding of a candidate's drug use history, offering insights far beyond what other testing methods can achieve.
With this extended window, hair testing gives businesses in Safford, AL, a fuller picture of past substance use. This comprehensive approach provides a detailed view that enhances decision-making in the workplace, ensuring high standards of employee conduct and safety.
Reducing Tampering Risks with Hair Follicle Tests in Safford, AL
One of the main strengths of hair follicle tests is their tamper-resistant nature. In Safford, this feature ensures that the samples collected remain reliable and unquestionable, maintaining the integrity of the testing process.
The robust design of hair tests means they're less susceptible to typical adulteration methods. For employers in Safford, this offers an enhanced peace of mind, knowing the results are authentic and reflective of the tested individual's recent substance history.
Nationwide Testing Access with Local Safford Convenience
Accredited Drug Testing's availability across the nation ensures that Safford residents can easily access testing services. Our local presence guarantees that individuals receive timely and convenient services, minimizing any associated hassle.
The accessibility of our testing locations makes scheduling and undergoing a test straightforward. In Safford, AL, our facilities are a testament to ensuring that testing is an efficient and stress-free process, available nationwide and locally accessible.
Simple and Confidential Testing in Safford, AL
The process of ordering and undergoing a hair follicle test is straightforward and discreet. This simplicity ensures that individuals in Safford can maintain their privacy while accessing crucial testing services, addressing any confidentiality concerns they might have.
With user-friendly procedures, individuals can trust that their information remains secure. In Safford, AL, this simple approach guarantees that the testing process is seamless from initiation to result delivery, maintaining discretion throughout.
Affordable and Fast Testing in Safford, AL
Our competitive pricing for hair follicle tests, paired with swift turnaround times, offers excellent value for companies of all sizes in Safford. Businesses can trust in affordable rates without sacrificing the integrity or speed of the testing process.
The balance of cost-efficiency and rapid results ensures that even smaller businesses can access essential testing services. With prompt service availability and reasonable pricing, companies in Safford, AL can manage their testing needs effectively while maintaining budgetary constraints.
Fast and Reliable Testing in Safford, AL
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their precision and rapid results. Unlike other methods, hair testing delivers high accuracy, making it invaluable for detecting drug use effectively. This reliability, coupled with quick processing times, positions hair follicle tests as a preferred option in Safford, AL.
The accuracy of hair testing is unmatched. In Safford, businesses benefit from this reliability, ensuring they receive trustworthy data for critical decision-making. With a robust system in place, these tests deliver quick and precise results that are hard to contest, thereby certifying their merit.
Achieving Compliance and Assurance for Safford Employers
Utilizing hair follicle testing allows employers in Safford to align with workplace drug-free policies effectively. Enforcing these measures leads to reduced legal risks and a safer, more compliant work environment, offering peace of mind.
Employers benefit greatly from hair testing's robust detection abilities. In Safford, it ensures consistency with safety guidelines and liability reductions, fostering a workplace that's not only secure but also legally compliant and upholds high standards of staff conduct.
