Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a highly effective method for detecting drug and alcohol use. The fibers of growing hair strands trap biomarkers, offering a long-term record of substance use. When hair is collected close to the scalp, it can reveal up to a 3-month window of alcohol and drug consumption. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches and approximately 200 strands of hair (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) taken near the scalp will yield 100mg, which is ideal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair isn't available, an equal quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The core steps in laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial entry of a sample into the lab's system. This process verifies proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in any data not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial quick assessment for drug abuse. It's a cost-efficient method to rule out drug usage for most samples, but a positive screen result requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples testing presumptively positive in Screening need a secondary confirmation.
For samples presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair from the initial sample is prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at concentrations lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening particularly complex.
Confirmation for any positive screening result is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: 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 Palm City, FL
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine screenings, the former emerges superior in detection accuracy. Hair tests can identify a range of substances, painting a detailed picture of an individual's history. Unlike urine tests, which are limited to recent substance use, hair follicle testing offers a broader window of detection.
Moreover, hair testing's reliability is unparalleled. Its observed collection process minimizes the risk of tampering, ensuring authenticity. This robust procedure provides confidence in drug testing results, proving to be a more effective solution than its urine counterpart.
Extended Detection Window in Palm City, FL
The significant advantage of hair follicle testing lies in its extended detection window, offering insights for up to 90 days of drug use history. For employers, this means a comprehensive understanding of an applicant's or employee's substance use.
This extended window arms decision-makers with the information needed to ensure workplace safety, integrity, and reliability. Hair follicle tests offer an unmatched retrospective look at drug use trends, far beyond what urine tests can achieve.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Palm City, FL
One of the distinct advantages of hair follicle testing is its resistance to tampering. The collection process is stringently supervised, thwarting attempts to adulterate or cheat the system.
Employers seeking dependable results find hair tests a reliable solution. This method serves as a robust safeguard against manipulation, delivering trustworthy outcomes. For those requiring assurance in their testing protocols, hair follicle assessments provide unmatched credibility.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Palm City, FL
Accredited Drug Testing offers unparalleled convenience through its extensive network of testing facilities nationwide, including Palm City. This ensures easy and streamlined access to necessary testing services.
Residents and employers alike benefit from the seamless process our locations provide. No matter where you are, quick and efficient access to drug testing resources is always within reach, eliminating hassles and ensuring satisfaction.
Simple, Confidential Process in Palm City, FL
Our hair follicle testing procedure prioritizes simplicity and confidentiality. From initial order to obtaining the results, the process is designed to be straightforward, respecting privacy every step of the way.
This seamless process alleviates concerns around ease and confidentiality, making it an ideal choice for those valuing discretion and efficiency. The streamlined flow ensures you're guided smoothly through the essential phases with minimal effort.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Palm City, FL
Accredited Drug Testing ensures competitive pricing paired with swift turnaround times, delivering significant value to businesses of any size. Our cost-effective solutions cater to varied testing needs without compromising on quality.
By providing prompt results, we offer businesses timely data for crucial decision-making. Coupled with our affordability, this creates a robust testing strategy conducive to both budget-friendly and effective drug screening.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Palm City, FL
Hair follicle drug tests offer an unmatched level of precision and speed. These tests detect substance use with remarkable accuracy, swiftly providing results that employers and individuals can trust. The scientific methodology ensures high reliability, surpassing the capabilities of traditional testing methods for delivering results you can count on.
Employing cutting-edge technology, hair tests in Palm City guarantee rapid turnaround, ensuring critical information is accessible without delay. The combination of speed and accuracy makes hair follicle testing a preferred choice, particularly when timely decision-making is essential.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Palm City, FL
Hair follicle testing ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies, providing a crucial peace of mind for employers. By reducing legal risks and enhancing safety, businesses can foster a secure environment.
Employers in Palm City can rest assured that their anti-drug policies are upheld with precision. With hair tests, organizations mitigate liabilities while promoting a culture of safety and responsibility in their workforce.
