Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair fiber encapsulates biomarkers, capturing a long-term record of substance intake as it grows. By collecting hair samples near the scalp, analysts can evaluate alcohol and other drug use over an approximate three-month period. The process of obtaining hair samples is straightforward, with minimal risk of tampering, and is convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (akin to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, an optimal amount for both initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For tests like EtG, add-ons, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is preferred. It's advisable to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively, whereas body hair encompasses all other varieties (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The lab processing of drug test outcomes comprises four main steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is first processed into the laboratory’s system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigns an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening acts as an initial assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is an economical method to discard drug use across most samples, a positive result must undergo confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that test positive in Screening require subsequent confirmation.
For a presumptively positive result during Screening, additional hair is drawn from the initial collection for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at a considerably lower concentration than found in other testing methodologies (such as urine or saliva), underscoring the complexity of hair drug testing.
Positive results from Screening undergo Confirmation via methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples receive washing before confirmation as necessary. The full laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Boydsville, AR
Hair testing surpasses traditional urine tests by offering longer detection windows and superior detection reliability in Boydsville, AR. Hair tests can track substance use for up to 90 days, capturing a comprehensive substance history. Unlike urine tests, which cover a shorter window, hair tests offer a more accurate picture of long-term substance use.
Extended Detection Window in Boydsville, AR
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window of up to 90 days, far surpassing the capabilities of other tests. For employers in Boydsville, AR, this translates to a detailed understanding of an individual’s substance use history, beyond just recent patterns. This method provides an invaluable tool for making informed hiring and monitoring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Boydsville, AR
Hair follicle tests in Boydsville, AR are renowned for their tamper-resistant qualities. Unlike other methods, the nature of hair testing inherently reduces the risk of sample manipulation. This ensures that the results are both reliable and credible, safeguarding the integrity of the testing process and providing peace of mind for all stakeholders involved.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Boydsville, AR
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient access to testing services with centers located nationwide, including Boydsville, AR. This ensures that individuals and businesses can easily access testing centers for quick and hassle-free drug screens. Our extensive network allows for seamless scheduling and reduces travel burdens for all testers.
Simple, Confidential Process in Boydsville, AR
The process for hair follicle testing in Boydsville, AR is designed to be simple and confidential, prioritizing privacy and ease. From ordering the test to receiving results, all steps are streamlined to ensure a user-friendly experience. Confidentiality is maintained throughout, addressing any privacy concerns from individuals and businesses alike.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Boydsville, AR
With competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, hair follicle drug tests in Boydsville, AR provide exceptional value to companies regardless of size. Our efficient processes not only ensure rapid results but also adhere to budgetary constraints without compromising quality, offering peace of mind and cost-effectiveness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Boydsville, AR
When it comes to precision and speed, hair follicle drug tests in Boydsville, AR stand out. These tests offer high accuracy in detecting substance use, making them a highly reliable choice. With quick processing times, results are delivered efficiently, providing clarity and assurance to employers and individuals alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Boydsville, AR
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps employers in Boydsville, AR maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces legal risks associated with improper drug testing and enhances safety by ensuring accurate screening. Employers can rest assured knowing they are upholding industry standards and promoting a secure work environment.
