Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a long-term record of drugs and alcohol by embedding biomarkers in the fibers of the hair as it grows. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can detect alcohol and other substances for up to about a 3-month duration. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
Collecting a 1.5-inch section of approximately 200 hairs (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal portion for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional screenings, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to evaluate the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is missing, an equivalent quantity of body hair is acceptable. When discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other forms (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab handling of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial handling of a sample into a laboratory’s framework. This consists of confirming the sample was properly sealed and sent, creating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody process.
Screening constitutes an initial rapid examination for substances of abuse. While Screening is a budget-friendly approach to exclude drug use in the majority of samples, a positive screening must be verified for it to be valid in legal proceedings. Any samples preliminarily positive during Screening require further verification.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive during the Screening stage, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and made ready for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a much lower concentration level compared to other techniques (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most complex technique to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptively positive are cleansed before confirmation as required. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and the certification to ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair fiber and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Indian River Estates, FL
Hair follicle testing offers superior advantages over traditional urine tests. In Indian River Estates, FL, the preference for hair tests comes from their enhanced detection capability and reliability. Employers and courts favor these tests for their longer detection window and resistance to tampering, providing more comprehensive results.
Extended Detection Window in Indian River Estates, FL
The ability of hair follicle tests to trace drug use over an extensive timeline, up to 90 days, sets them apart. In Indian River Estates, FL, employers gain crucial insights into an applicant's or employee's historic substance use. By reviewing this extended window, businesses can make informed decisions and maintain a safe working environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Indian River Estates, FL
Hair follicle drug testing significantly reduces risks of sample tampering. This robust method provides Indian River Estates, FL, with reliable results that are virtually impossible to question. Trusted by courts and employers, it ensures the integrity and authenticity of the tested sample.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Indian River Estates, FL
Enjoy the ease of access to a widespread network of testing centers provided by our nationwide service and local locations in Indian River Estates, FL. Our centers offer hassle-free, quick, and accessible drug testing, reinforcing our commitment to convenience and reliability.
Simple, Confidential Process in Indian River Estates, FL
The process of ordering, undertaking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is both simple and confidential. In Indian River Estates, FL, we prioritize your privacy and aim to provide a seamless experience. From start to finish, we ensure ease of use and confidentiality for all clients.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Indian River Estates, FL
Offering competitive pricing structures, our services in Indian River Estates, FL, ensure that businesses of all sizes receive excellent value. Coupled with quick turnaround times, our hair follicle drug tests provide companies with affordable solutions without compromising on quality or efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Indian River Estates, FL
Hair follicle drug tests provide results with unmatched precision and swiftness. In Indian River Estates, FL, these tests are renowned for their ability to detect substance usage with high accuracy. Employers and professionals rely on them for ensuring comprehensive assessments, effectively supporting zero-tolerance policies.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Indian River Estates, FL
Utilizing hair follicle drug tests ensures compliance with workplace drug policies in Indian River Estates, FL. This method enhances workplace safety by reducing legal risks, offering employers peace of mind. By maintaining a drug-free environment, businesses foster a safe and productive workplace.
