Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a prolonged overview of alcohol and other substances by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of hair as it grows. Harvested near the scalp, hair samples can reveal drug and alcohol usage over a span of up to approximately three months. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and conveniently ship-ready.
A sample of 1.5 inches containing roughly 200 hair strands (similar in girth to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the preferred amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-on tests, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, it is suggested to use 150mg. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing is advised. In cases where scalp hair is not an option, a comparable quantity of body hair might be obtained. References to head hair imply specifically scalp hair, while body hair denotes any other hair type (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the primary processing of a sample within a lab's database. This phase includes confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and delivered, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplementary data entry omitted by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial swift assessment to identify drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to dismiss drug presence in most samples, a positive screening necessitates confirmation to be deemed legally valid. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening must undergo further confirmation.
If a sample is indicated as presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for further Examination. Here, substances are isolated from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to alternative methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which accounts for the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples deemed presumptive positives undergo washing prior to confirmation as needed. The comprehensive laboratory procedures from Accessioning through to Confirmation are assessed under the dual oversight of both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to the ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
In Lumberton, FL, choosing hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests brings numerous advantages. The standout feature is its superior detection accuracy, offering reliability few methods can match. Hair tests provide a detailed account of substance use history, far beyond the limited scope of urine tests. This advanced method ensures accurate and trustworthy results every time.
Lumberton, FL, employers find immense value in the extended detection window offered by hair follicle testing. These tests cover up to a 90-day period, providing a deep insight into an individual's drug use history. This extensive window offers a more comprehensive assessment, unveiling consistent patterns of substance use, crucial for informed decision-making in employment processes.
Hair follicle tests in Lumberton, FL, offer a tamper-resistant solution to drug testing, minimizing the risk of compromised results. The difficulty in adulterating hair samples compared to urine makes this method highly reliable, with results that are nearly impossible to question. This robust testing method ensures authenticity, providing stakeholders with dependable and accurate information.
With numerous nationwide testing centers, including locations in Lumberton, FL, accessing hair follicle testing is convenient and hassle-free. Our strategically situated facilities ensure that individuals and companies benefit from quick and easy access to testing services, making drug testing a seamless process for all involved parties.
In Lumberton, FL, our hair follicle testing process is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, every step prioritizes convenience and privacy, addressing any concerns about ease of use or personal data protection. This streamlined procedure assures all participants of a smooth and discreet experience.
Lumberton, FL, businesses can take advantage of competitive pricing structures and fast turnaround times offered by hair follicle testing services. Our commitment to affordability ensures exceptional value, catering to companies of all sizes, while the rapid delivery of results enhances operational efficiency, allowing businesses to make timely and informed decisions.
In Lumberton, FL, the precision and swiftness of hair follicle tests stand out remarkably. These tests boast a high level of accuracy in detecting substance use, providing fast and reliable results that are hard to match by other methods. The efficiency of hair testing eliminates guesswork, ensuring that results are delivered promptly, aligning with the fast-paced needs of modern testing environments.
Employers in Lumberton, FL, benefit from using hair follicle testing to maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method not only reduces legal risks but also enhances workplace safety by ensuring that policies are effectively enforced. By adopting hair testing, companies can achieve peace of mind, knowing that their workforce meets necessary safety and compliance standards.
