Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a reservoir for long-term biomarker retention, capturing traces of substances in the fibers of the hair shaft as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can provide a detection window for alcohol and drugs lasting up to roughly three months. The collection process is straightforward, with minimal risk of tampering, and shipping is hassle-free.
A sample consisting of a 1.5-inch segment from approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) cut nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for analysis and verification. For EtG tests, additional options, or panels greater than 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement of the sample. If scalp hair cannot be collected, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically denote scalp hair. Body hair encompasses any other types of hair (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the step where a sample begins its processing journey within a laboratory’s system. This stage includes confirming the sample’s proper sealing and shipping, allocating a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody documentation.
Screening entails a preliminary evaluation for drugs of abuse. Although Screening provides a cost-effective means of eliminating drug use in most cases, the confirmation of a positive screen is necessary for legal admissibility. Any sample showing a presumptive positive in Screening mandates a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample is marked potentially positive during Screening, further hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. This step involves extracting drugs from hair at concentrations lower than those found in other test types (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug testing ranks among the most complex methodologies.
The Confirmation of positive screening findings occurs using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples that return presumptive positive results undergo washing before confirmation when necessary. A comprehensive review of the entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted, adhering to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and aligned with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing stands head and shoulders above urine tests in Cord, AR, due to its unparalleled accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair samples provide a detailed timeline of substance use.
This enhanced detection reliability makes hair tests more appealing, reducing the likelihood of false negatives. Employers benefit from more accurate screenings when relying on hair samples over urine ones.
In Cord, AR, hair follicle testing is advantageous for employers as it offers an extended detection window of up to 90 days. This makes it possible to discern a more comprehensive history of substance use in employees or candidates.
The extended window helps provide a clearer picture of long-term drug use, which urine tests fail to offer. Employers gain insights into more than recent activity, aiding better hiring and workforce management decisions.
Hair follicle tests in Cord, AR, are designed to minimize the risk of sample tampering. This testing method ensures that results are trustworthy and free from manipulation.
Unlike other testing types, hair sample collection is notably tamper-proof, safeguarding against adulteration and providing concrete proof of drug use, which is crucial in legal and employment settings.
Our extensive network of testing centers in Cord, AR, and beyond ensures the convenience and accessibility of hair follicle testing, enabling quick and smooth service access nationwide.
Employers and individuals benefit from easy and efficient scheduling for tests at well-equipped local facilities, saving time and enhancing their testing experience significantly.
The process of undergoing hair follicle testing in Cord, AR, is straightforward and discreet. Ordering, administering, and receiving results is conducted with confidentiality.
Privacy and simplicity are the hallmarks of this process, addressing privacy concerns and fostering a seamless experience for all parties involved in the drug testing procedure.
Offering competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times in Cord, AR, hair follicle tests present excellent value for companies of all sizes looking for reliable drug testing.
The affordable costs combined with speedy results delivery make it a compelling choice, bringing peace of mind and financial balance to organizations.
The hair follicle drug test is widely regarded as delivering rapid, precise, and dependable results in Cord, AR. This method boasts remarkable accuracy in identifying substances, offering a robust tool for drug testing.
Its swift and exact detection capability ensures that results are reliable and trusted. The hair follicle test quickly identifies drug traces, matching the demands for efficient drug testing solutions.
For employers in Cord, AR, implementing hair follicle testing aligns with maintaining drug-free workplace policies, offering peace of mind through compliance and safety.
This testing ensures adherence to regulations and minimizes the likelihood of legal claims. Hair testing thus serves as an employer's ally in fostering a risk-free and productive work environment.
