Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of substances by encapsulating biomarkers within the hair fibers. When sourced near the scalp, hair offers up to an estimated 3-month timeframe for identifying alcohol and drug use. Hair collection is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches from around 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in thickness) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal quantity for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It's advisable to weigh the sample on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair cannot be collected, a comparable amount of body hair might be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other varieties (like facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
There are four key phases in processing a drug test result in the lab: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first phase, involving incorporating a sample into the lab’s database. This stage checks that the sample is correctly sealed and dispatched, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any remaining data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial assessment for drug traces. Screening is economical for ruling out drug use in many cases, but positive screens need confirmation to be valid in legal contexts. Samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening must undergo additional confirmation.
Should a sample be presumptively positive during Screening, further hair is extracted from the primary sample and set for Extraction. This phase retrieves drugs from hair at a concentration much lower than alternative approaches (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies.
The Confirmation phase for any positive Screening result employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives undergo a necessary washing before confirmation. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", this test actually analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Gulf Breeze, FL
The benefits of hair testing significantly outweigh traditional urine tests. Not only do hair tests offer a superior window of detection, but they also provide enhanced accuracy and reliability, making them a top choice for discerning substance use.
Extended Detection Window in Gulf Breeze, FL
Employers in Gulf Breeze benefit from hair follicle testing's extended detection window, offering insights into a candidate or worker's drug use over up to 90 days. This thorough approach provides a more complete substance history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Gulf Breeze, FL
The hair follicle testing method significantly reduces the chance of sample tampering, ensuring the results are both reliable and unquestionable, offering peace of mind for those needing accurate substance use assessments.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Gulf Breeze, FL
Our extensive network of testing facilities provides convenience for those needing hair follicle testing. With locations both nationwide and locally in Gulf Breeze, accessing our services is straightforward and hassle-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Gulf Breeze, FL
Our hair testing process is designed to be simple and confidential, addressing concerns about privacy. From ordering to receiving results, the process ensures ease of use while maintaining discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Gulf Breeze, FL
We offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround for our hair testing services, providing excellent value for companies regardless of size. Our efficient service ensures timely results at a cost-effective rate.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Gulf Breeze, FL
Hair follicle tests boast remarkable precision and speed in identifying substance use. Their superior accuracy makes them the preferred choice, offering quick and reliable results that ensure confidence in the outcome.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Gulf Breeze, FL
Using hair follicle testing ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks and promoting a safe work environment. Employers can rest easy knowing they are upholding standards and maintaining peace of mind.
