Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective technique for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the strands, hair offers a historical record of alcohol and drug use. Sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal usage data for up to a three-month period for both alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to collect, hard to tamper with, and convenient to ship.
A 1.5-inch section comprising approximately 200 hairs (equivalent to a #2 pencil size) from near the scalp yields 100mg, the optimum sample size for screening and validation. For EtG tests, add-ons, and evaluations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. It's advisable to weigh the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If head hair isn't accessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. When we mention head hair, we're specifically referring to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses alternative hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage, which involves processing a sample into a laboratory’s system. This step validates the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any outstanding data entry if an electronic chain of custody system hasn't provided it.
Screening entails a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. Though Screening is a cost-effective method to eliminate drug presence in most samples, confirmation is required for any positive result to be accepted legally. Samples showing presumptive positives during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are retrieved from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug screening demands more precision.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS is used for confirming any positive Screening results. Necessary washing of all presumptive positives occurs before confirmation. Every phase from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Norland, FL
Hair follicle tests surpass traditional urine tests in several aspects, especially in detection accuracy and reliability. These tests offer a longer detection window, capturing drug use over months rather than weeks. Unlike urine tests, hair tests are less prone to tampering, making them a preferred choice for those requiring stringent substance use assessments.
Extended Detection Window in Norland, FL
The ability of hair follicle tests to monitor drug use over a prolonged period is a significant advantage. With a detection window extending up to 90 days, employers gain an in-depth understanding of an individual's substance history, which is crucial for making informed employment decisions in Norland, FL.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Norland, FL
Hair follicle tests offer a robust solution to the issue of sample manipulation. By significantly reducing the risk of adulteration, these tests provide reliable, unquestionable results. This feature ensures that the outcomes reflect an accurate assessment of an individual's drug use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Norland, FL
Our extensive network of testing centers, available nationwide, ensures easy access to hair follicle testing services. This convenience allows for prompt and hassle-free testing experiences, whether you are local to Norland, FL, or located elsewhere in the country.
Simple, Confidential Process in Norland, FL
The hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to providing a sample and receiving results, each step prioritizes the client's privacy and convenience, addressing any concerns regarding ease of use and confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Norland, FL
Our competitive pricing structure, coupled with quick turnaround times, offers exceptional value for companies of all sizes. Ensuring affordability and efficiency, our services provide clients with peace of mind, knowing they are investing in quality testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Norland, FL
Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched precision and efficiency, delivering fast and trustworthy results. This testing method stands out for its high accuracy in detecting substance use, ensuring that employers and individuals receive clear and reliable information about drug use history.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Norland, FL
Implementing hair follicle testing aids employers in adhering to drug-free workplace policies. This not only mitigates legal risks but also enhances safety. Employers can rest assured knowing they are upholding compliance and maintaining a secure working environment.
