Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of alcohol and substance use by capturing biomarkers within the strands. When hair is taken near the scalp, it can provide a detection timeframe of up to around three months for alcohol and drugs. Gathering hair is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil), closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and verification. For tests involving EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the hair sample is suggested. It is advisable to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not available, a similar quantity of body hair may be taken. In relation to head hair, this refers solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The core processes involved in laboratory drug test analysis are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory's database. This step includes confirming the sample was securely sealed and shipped, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data inputs not covered by an electronic custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is a budget-friendly way to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive screening requires confirmation for legal admissibility. All samples that show a presumptive positive during Screening require subsequent Confirmation.
Should a sample indicate a presumptive positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at a lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair analysis among the most complex methodologies.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with a presumptive positive outcome are washed before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Marathon Shores, FL
Hair testing showcases superior detection accuracy and reliability over traditional urine testing methods. It offers a broader detection window and greater consistency, proving invaluable for employers and organizations committed to maintaining rigorous substance use policies. In Marathon Shores, it's the advantageous choice for comprehensive screening.
Extended Detection Window in Marathon Shores, FL
Hair follicle testing provides a much longer detection window than other methods, spanning up to 90 days. This extended period enables employers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of an applicant or employee's substance use history in Marathon Shores, ensuring informed decisions that enhance workplace safety and compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Marathon Shores, FL
Hair follicle testing minimizes the possibility of sample tampering, ensuring test results are reliable and indisputable. This robustness is critical for organizations in Marathon Shores seeking trustworthy drug testing processes that bolster confidence in the safety and integrity of their workforce.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Marathon Shores, FL
Our nationwide network of testing centers makes accessing hair follicle drug tests quick and hassle-free. Residents and businesses in Marathon Shores benefit from local locations, ensuring convenient and efficient testing services whenever needed, without the frustration of logistical challenges.
Simple, Confidential Process in Marathon Shores, FL
The process for hair follicle testing in Marathon Shores is straightforward and confidential, from ordering to sample collection and results delivery. This simplicity ensures privacy while providing users with an easy and stress-free experience, addressing any concerns about confidentiality and personal data protection.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Marathon Shores, FL
Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times make hair follicle testing an excellent value for companies in Marathon Shores, regardless of size. This affordability, combined with swift results, offers businesses peace of mind and an effective solution for managing their drug testing needs efficiently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Marathon Shores, FL
Hair follicle drug tests in Marathon Shores deliver swift and precise results. Known for their accuracy, they reliably detect substance use, providing peace of mind for employers. With a cutting-edge approach, these tests ensure high precision, making them a preferred choice for those seeking dependable outcomes in the realm of drug detection.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Marathon Shores, FL
Employers in Marathon Shores can ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies through hair follicle testing. This method reduces legal risks and enhances workplace safety, providing peace of mind for companies dedicated to maintaining a safe and productive environment for their employees.