Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair offers an approximate 3-month detection timeline for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is an optimal sample for both screening and confirmatory purposes. For EtG, additional tests, and/or those above 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the sample on a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair can be used instead. Speaking of head hair implies scalp hair exclusively. On the other hand, body hair pertains to all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug test result processing in a laboratory involves four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of the initial incorporation of a sample into the laboratory’s system. This step verifies the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, generates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfills additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary swift examination for substance abuse. While it is an economical approach to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive outcome from Screening must be confirmed for courtroom admissibility. Any samples presumptively positive in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are drawn from hair at substantially lower concentrations than in alternative methodologies (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening presents the greatest challenge in execution.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is completed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. As necessary, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation. The full laboratory protocol, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation of ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests", the test analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Saint Augustine, FL
Hair follicle testing surpasses urine testing by offering an extended detection window, precision, and resilience against tampering. The enhanced accuracy and dependability make it the preferred choice for organizations aiming to uphold stringent drug policies.
Extended Detection Window in Saint Augustine, FL
Employers gain a comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use with hair follicle testing, which can identify drug intake for up to 90 days. This extended window ensures a thorough assessment of the applicant's or employee's history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Saint Augustine, FL
Hair follicle tests offer a tamper-resistant solution by minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. This feature guarantees reliable and undeniable results, making it a secure option for drug testing requirements.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Saint Augustine, FL
Our extensive network of testing centers provides seamless and accessible services across the nation. This convenience ensures that testing is quick, straightforward, and stress-free for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Saint Augustine, FL
We prioritize a straightforward and confidential process for ordering, administering, and receiving test results. Privacy concerns are paramount, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience for all users.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Saint Augustine, FL
We offer competitive pricing structures paired with rapid turnaround times, delivering excellent value to businesses of varying sizes. This approach ensures cost-effective solutions while maintaining high standards.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Saint Augustine, FL
Experience the efficiency and precision of hair follicle drug testing in Saint Augustine. This method not only provides swift outcomes but also boasts high accuracy. Detecting substance use with such reliability is essential for maintaining uncompromised safety standards in various sectors.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Saint Augustine, FL
Implementing hair follicle testing allows employers to ensure conformity with drug-free policies. This reduces legal liabilities and enhances workplace safety, offering peace of mind for management and stakeholders alike.
