Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair offers an extended historical record of alcohol and drugs by trapping biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When cut close to the scalp, hair can give up to roughly a 3-month detection period for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to ship.
A 1.5-inch hair sample, comprising about 200 strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal sample for tests and confirmations. For EtG, as well as additional or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg amount of the sample is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is suggested. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair may be selected. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result comprises four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial incorporation of a sample into a lab’s system. This process ensures that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concludes any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is economically efficient for excluding drug usage in most samples, a positive screening requires confirmation to be court-admissible. Any presumptively positive samples in Screening demand a secondary confirmation.
If a sample is presumptively positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging technique to carry out.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the comprehensive lab process is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the procedure actually assesses the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing Hair follicle testing in Ridge Manor, FL offers significant advantages over traditional urine tests. With unparalleled accuracy and reliability, hair tests identify substance use over a longer detection window. This method surpasses urine tests in confirming long-term drug use, providing a dependable solution for those seeking clarity.
Extended Detection Window In Ridge Manor, FL, hair follicle testing allows for detection of drug use over an extensive period of up to 90 days. This extended window gives employers a comprehensive look at the substance use history of applicants or employees, offering insights into more than just immediate use. Compared to other testing methods, it offers a broader perspective on an individual's past substance interactions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method Hair follicle tests in Ridge Manor, FL significantly minimize the risk of sample tampering. This robust testing method bolsters reliability, offering conclusive results that are difficult to adulterate. In environments where accuracy and dependability are critical, hair testing provides a superior option, helping ensure that test outcomes remain uncontested and trustworthy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations Our extensive network of testing centers ensures that no matter where you are in Ridge Manor, FL, accessing our services is quick and easy. This nationwide convenience means testing can be performed hassle-free, saving time for both employers and individuals while providing access to reliable drug screening when it's needed most.
Simple, Confidential Process The process of scheduling and undergoing a hair follicle test in Ridge Manor, FL is straightforward and discreet. We prioritize your privacy at every step, from ordering the test to receiving the results. This confidential approach addresses any concerns about data security and makes the testing experience as smooth and reassuring as possible.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround In Ridge Manor, FL, our competitive pricing and swift result delivery set our hair follicle testing apart. We offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or accuracy, ensuring businesses of all sizes get value for money. Quick turnaround times mean less downtime and faster decision-making, benefiting employers and individuals alike.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results Hair follicle drug testing in Ridge Manor, FL stands out by offering remarkable precision and speed. This method is known for its high accuracy in detecting substance use, making it the preferred choice for accurate assessments. In situations where timely and precise results are crucial, hair follicle tests deliver a superior edge over other testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers Utilizing hair follicle testing in Ridge Manor, FL helps employers uphold drug-free workplace policies effectively. It minimizes legal ramifications and enhances overall workplace safety by offering a foolproof method for ensuring compliance. This peace of mind stems from knowing that hair testing aligns with strict policy frameworks and offers clear, reliable outcomes.
