Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands hold a historical record of alcohol and drug usage by preserving biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strands. When gathered near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate 3-month period of detection for substances. The collection process for hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches from near the scalp, containing around 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil), will yield 100mg of hair, which is sufficient for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or when exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair isn’t present, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. When mentioning head hair, this solely refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key steps in the lab process for generating a drug testing result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial incorporation of a sample into the lab's system. This step checks that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data not automatically input by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary fast check for substances typically abused. Although Screening offers a cost-effective method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive result demands confirmation to be valid legally. Presumptive positive samples during Screening require additional confirmation.
Should a sample indicate a presumptive positive during the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the original specimen for further Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at concentrations much lower than in other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluids), which contributes to the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmed positive results from Screening undergo verification via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed as necessary before confirmation. The entire laboratory operation, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specification and the accreditation of ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly mislabeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis examines the hair strand, not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Thomaston, AL
Hair follicle testing is superior to conventional urine tests due to its higher accuracy and extended detection capabilities. While urine tests detect recent substance use, hair follicle tests provide a comprehensive view over a longer period. Employers and legal systems prefer hair tests for their reliability in maintaining a drug-free environment.
Another advantage of hair testing lies in its resistance to tampering, unlike urine samples which are susceptible to adulteration. Employers find peace of mind in knowing that the results reflect a true history of the individual's substance use, thereby ensuring adherence to workplace safety standards.
Extended Detection Window in Thomaston, AL
Hair follicle testing offers a unique advantage with its ability to trace drug use up to 90 days in the past. This extended detection window allows employers to gain a fuller understanding of an individual's substance use history, leading to more informed decisions in hiring and maintaining a safe workplace.
By analyzing hair samples, employers can see a comprehensive picture of an employee's long-term substance habits, unmatched by other testing methods. This in-depth view is crucial for industries enforcing strict drug-free policies, ensuring ongoing compliance and safety.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Thomaston, AL
Hair follicle tests offer a significant advantage in their resistance to tampering, making them a reliable option for drug screening. Unlike urine tests, which can be altered, hair tests are nearly impossible to manipulate, providing consistent and trustworthy results.
This robustness against sample adulteration ensures the accuracy of the detection process, giving organizations and legal bodies confidence in the results. The integrity of hair follicle testing is a strong deterrent against cheating, supporting its reputation as a dependable testing method.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Thomaston, AL
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including Thomaston, AL, ensures easy and prompt access to hair follicle testing services. This convenience means less hassle and more efficiency in getting tested, no matter where you are.
Whether for individuals or businesses, our strategically located facilities make drug testing seamless and quick. This accessibility enhances the overall testing experience, propelling us as a leader in servicing diverse needs across various locales.
Simple, Confidential Process in Thomaston, AL
The process for hair follicle drug testing is designed to be straightforward and discreet. From ordering to testing and receiving results, every stage is simplified to address privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use. Our commitment to confidentiality provides reassurance to individuals and companies alike.
By maintaining a secure process, we guarantee the protection of personal information throughout. This assurance of privacy and simplicity bolsters trust and encourages more people to engage in necessary testing without reservations.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Thomaston, AL
We offer competitive pricing structures paired with fast turnaround times for hair follicle drug tests, providing exceptional value to organizations of all sizes. Our cost-effective solutions do not compromise on quality or speed, ensuring quick and reliable results.
This combination of affordability and efficiency makes us a preferred choice for businesses aiming to uphold drug-free policies without stretching their budget, offering peace of mind and adherence to safety standards efficiently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Thomaston, AL
Hair follicle drug testing provides unmatched precision and speed in identifying substance use. Its high accuracy ensures that results are not only fast but also trustworthy. This testing method excels in quickly processing samples, delivering results promptly to meet the urgent needs of employers and individuals.
The reliability offered by hair drug tests is a key factor for employers seeking dependable results. Its design allows it to uncover even trace amounts of substances, thereby ensuring comprehensive and accurate findings. Hair follicle testing stands out as a dependable choice, offering precise and rapid outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Thomaston, AL
Implementing hair follicle testing in the workplace facilitates compliance with drug-free policies, enhancing safety and reducing legal risks. It offers employers peace of mind, ensuring that the work environment remains secure and employees are adhering to company standards.
Through accurate and reliable results, hair follicle tests support organizational safety initiatives, contributing to a culture of responsibility and diligence. Employers benefit from knowing their policies are upheld and potential liabilities minimized.
