Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive record of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair shaft as it grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window for alcohol and other drugs of up to roughly 3 months. Hair is easy to collect, relatively challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests that exceed 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. It is suggested to use a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, the same quantity of body hair can be collected. When mentioning head hair, it refers solely to scalp hair. Body hair refers to all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps involved in processing a drug test result in a laboratory are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial processing of a sample into the laboratory’s system. This process encompasses confirming that the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial quick assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be verified to be court-admissible. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
If Screening results indicate a presumptive positive, more hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. In this stage, drugs are drawn out from hair at a much lower concentration than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening is the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that test presumptive positive are cleaned prior to confirmation when necessary. The entire laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the examination itself assesses the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Choose Hair Testing Over Urine in Texasville, AL
Hair follicle tests offer Texasville residents a more reliable and accurate detection method than traditional urine tests. By capturing substance use information over a 90-day period, hair tests provide a clearer and longer history of drug use. This extended detection capability ensures higher accuracy and makes them hard to manipulate, contributing to their growing preference.
Extended Detection Capabilities in Texasville, AL
Employers in Texasville looking for thorough insights into an individual’s substance use history prefer hair follicle tests, which can track drug use up to 90 days. This enhanced window provides a comprehensive picture of an applicant's or employee’s substance habits, giving them the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding hiring or retention.
Secure Testing Against Tampering in Texasville, AL
In Texasville, hair follicle tests are recognized for their tamper-resistant nature. These tests minimize the possibility of sample tampering, offering reliable and authentic results. Such security makes them a sought-after solution, eliminating doubts about the validity of drug test outcomes and ensuring stable findings.
Accessible Testing Facilities Nationwide and Locally in Texasville, AL
With testing centers available nationwide and local services in Texasville, accessing our hair follicle testing is simple and convenient. Our expansive network ensures that individuals can easily schedule and complete their tests, reducing hassle and ensuring prompt service no matter where you are located.
Confidential and Streamlined Testing Process in Texasville, AL
Our testing procedure is straightforward and confidential, addressing privacy concerns. In Texasville, individuals can order, conduct, and receive results effortlessly, knowing their information is handled securely, providing an assurance of privacy and simplicity throughout the testing journey.
Competitive Pricing and Quick Results in Texasville, AL
We offer cost-effective hair follicle testing in Texasville, emphasizing affordability without compromising on result speed. Our pricing strategy is designed to meet the needs of businesses of varying sizes, all while delivering rapid turnaround times, ensuring value for investment and peace of mind.
Fast and Precise Testing Results in Texasville, AL
In Texasville, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and expediency. These tests are designed for accuracy in substance use detection, ensuring findings are both rapid and reliable. The methodologies utilized ensure that there’s no compromise on the integrity of the results, making this the go-to option for those prioritizing exactitude.
Peace of Mind and Regulatory Compliance in Texasville, AL
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Texasville aids companies in upholding drug-free policies efficiently. By adhering to rigorous testing protocols, employers ensure regulatory compliance while lowering potential legal risks, thus nurturing a safer and more constructive working environment.
