Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive timeline of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair shaft. When collected near the scalp, hair may reveal up to a three-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is effortless, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample of roughly 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will produce 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional panels, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a recommended 150mg of the sample is necessary. It is advised to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair is not available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. When referring to head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The core stages involved in the laboratory analysis of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This process validates whether the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug usage across most samples, any positive screen must be confirmed to be court-admissible. Presumptively positive samples in Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction processing. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most complex technique to conduct.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair regulation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests", the focus is on analyzing the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Southeast Arcadia, FL
Hair testing offers unmatched benefits compared to urine tests, especially in Southeast Arcadia. Hair analysis detects substances over extended periods, providing a broader view of an individual's history. This method's accuracy and reliability make it a superior choice, surpassing traditional urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Southeast Arcadia, FL
Hair follicle testing in Southeast Arcadia captures drug use history over a prolonged period, often up to 90 days. This extended window allows employers to better assess the long-term sobriety of employees or applicants, offering a more comprehensive understanding of substance use history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Southeast Arcadia, FL
Hair follicle tests in Southeast Arcadia significantly mitigate sample tampering risks. Their robust collection process renders attempts at adulteration virtually ineffective, yielding results that are both reliable and indisputable—ideal for ensuring substance use policies are adhered to.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Southeast Arcadia, FL
Our extensive network of testing facilities across Southeast Arcadia and nationwide ensures accessible and seamless provision of hair follicle testing services. This convenience ensures quick and hassle-free evaluations for anyone needing our services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Southeast Arcadia, FL
In Southeast Arcadia, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and private. From ordering to receiving results, our confidential method ensures user privacy and ease, addressing any concerns regarding information security and service simplicity.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Southeast Arcadia, FL
With competitive pricing and swift processing times, our hair follicle testing services in Southeast Arcadia provide exceptional value for businesses of all scales. We're dedicated to delivering quick outcomes that offer financial efficiency and assurance to our clients.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Southeast Arcadia, FL
Hair follicle tests in Southeast Arcadia offer rapid and precise detection of substance use. Their accuracy is higher than traditional methods, ensuring timely results that stakeholders can count on. This high precision is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance standards without compromise.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Southeast Arcadia, FL
Utilizing hair follicle testing, Southeast Arcadia employers can confidently adhere to drug-free workplace policies. This testing method reduces legal liabilities and boosts workplace safety, providing peace of mind and ensuring a compliant working environment.
