Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a record keeper by storing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When sourced close to the scalp, hair offers nearly a 3-month window for identifying alcohol and other drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of about 200 strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg—the optimal sample size for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10 drugs, a 150mg sample is advisable. It’s recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, a comparable amount of body hair can be gathered. When mentioning head hair, we refer to scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four key steps in processing a hair drug test in the lab: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of integrating the sample into the lab’s system, involving verification of the sample’s proper sealing and shipping, assignment of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completion of any missing data not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves a prompt initial check for drugs. Although Screening is a frugal method to detect drug use in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation for legal purposes. Samples showing presumptive positive results in Screening must undergo further Confirmation.
In cases of a positive indication during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. This step involves extracting drugs from hair at lower levels than other methods like urine or oral fluid, which is why hair drug analysis is considered the toughest technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are washed if needed before Confirmation. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accredited under ISO / IEC 17025 specifications.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis examines the hair strand, not the follicle under the scalp.
In Mount Judea, AR, hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine tests in several aspects. Hair tests offer more reliable detection over extended periods and deliver enhanced accuracy, making them a preferred choice for employers. Unlike urine tests that detect short-term drug use, hair tests present a comprehensive overview.
With an extended detection window of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing in Mount Judea, AR offers employers a detailed insight into an individual’s substance history. This method ensures a comprehensive evaluation far surpassing traditional short-term detection tests, empowering informed decisions.
In Mount Judea, AR, hair follicle drug tests are known for their tamper-resistant nature. By significantly reducing the risk of adulteration, this method provides results that are both reliable and virtually unquestionable, ensuring the integrity of the testing process.
Accredited testing centers, both locally in Mount Judea, AR and nationwide, provide convenient solutions for quick and hassle-free drug testing needs. With widespread accessibility, individuals and organizations enjoy seamless access to our reliable testing service locations.
The hair follicle drug testing process in Mount Judea, AR is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the process is straightforward, putting any concerns at ease and ensuring privacy every step of the way.
Our affordable pricing and fast turnaround for hair follicle testing in Mount Judea, AR ensures excellent value for various-sized companies. Competitive rates coupled with quick processing enhance peace of mind for all involved.
Hair follicle drug tests in Mount Judea, AR deliver fast, accurate, and reliable results. These tests boast the precision necessary to confidently determine substance use, with minimal processing delays ensuring timely information for critical decisions. Their high accuracy adds a layer of trust that transcends traditional testing methods.
Hair follicle testing enhances employer compliance in Mount Judea, AR by ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This testing approach reduces legal liabilities and bolsters safety, offering peace of mind to employers aiming to maintain workplace integrity.
