Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Sheffield, AL

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as a compelling resource for identifying substance and alcohol use. Hair captures a historical record by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair shaft. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal substance and alcohol use within a span of up to roughly 90 days. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (similar to a #2 pencil's thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal quantity for analysis and confirmation. For tests like EtG, add-ons, or more than 10-panel tests, a sample of 150mg is suggested. It’s advisable to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair isn't available, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. When discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair pertains to all other hair (facial, armpit, etc.).

Process Overview

The four foundational stages in the lab processing of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample within a lab’s framework. This encompasses ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and sent, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any outstanding data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening consists of a preliminary rapid assessment for drug misuse. Though Screening is economically efficient for eliminating drug usage in most samples, a positive result must be validated for legal acceptability. Samples presumed positive in Screening necessitate follow-up confirmation.

If a sample shows a presumptive positive in Screening, further hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, substances are withdrawn from hair at a lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug testing.

Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The entire lab operation from Accessioning to Confirmation is supervised under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection timeframe: Hair drug evaluations can uncover drug use up to 90 days, unlike urine tests that have a shorter detection period.
• Challenging to manipulate: Hair drug tests are difficult to manipulate, enhancing result accuracy.
• Offers historical insight: It can outline a drug use pattern over time, not just immediate use.

Limitations:

• Inability to identify recent use: Drugs become noticeable in hair around 5-7 days post-use.
• Expense: Hair drug testing typically costs more compared to other methods.
• Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Though often dubbed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is of the hair shaft and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Comparing hair follicle and urine testing reveals hair testing’s superior detection capabilities. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair tests offer a longer detection period, providing a more accurate substance use history. This makes hair testing a valuable tool for employers in Sheffield, AL, seeking reliable drug testing methods.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle tests in Sheffield, AL, provide an extended detection window that spans up to 90 days, far surpassing the typical timeline of urine tests. This comprehensive detection period offers employers critical insights into the long-term substance history of potential or current employees, ensuring informed decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Sheffield, AL, the risk of sample tampering is greatly minimized with hair follicle testing. The test's design inherently reduces the chance of adulteration, ensuring the integrity of the test results. This offers employers and institutions a strong sense of confidence in the reliability of drug test outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Accredited Drug Testing boasts an extensive network of nationwide locations, including Sheffield, AL, guaranteeing access to our efficient testing services. This widespread availability ensures that individuals and organizations can quickly and conveniently manage their testing needs without hassle.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process of obtaining, conducting, and reviewing hair follicle test results in Sheffield, AL, is straightforward and confidential. Accredited Drug Testing ensures privacy and ease, allowing users to confidently engage with our services, knowing that their sensitive information is securely handled.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

With competitive pricing models and swift turnaround times, Accredited Drug Testing in Sheffield, AL, provides cost-effective solutions for businesses of varying sizes. Our affordable services ensure that organizations can efficiently manage their drug testing needs without financial strain.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Sheffield, AL, hair follicle drug testing stands out for its accuracy and speed. With precise detection capabilities, this testing method ensures that any substance use is reliably identified. The efficient processing of hair tests ensures timely results, making them a practical choice for those requiring swift and trustworthy outcomes.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Utilizing hair follicle drug tests in Sheffield, AL, ensures organizations maintain compliance with strict workplace drug policies. This testing method not only safeguards legal interests but also enhances overall safety, providing peace of mind for employers striving to uphold a drug-free environment.

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