Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within its growing strands. When sampled near the scalp, hair offers an approximately 90-day window for detecting alcohol and drug use. Hair collection is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It is advisable to measure the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. By 'head hair,' we mean only scalp hair, while 'body hair' includes all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test outcome encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s framework. This step verifies that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any additional data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. While it offers a cost-effective means to eliminate drug use in the majority of samples, any positive findings from this stage must be confirmed to be valid in legal settings. Positive samples in the Screening phase must undergo further confirmation.
If a sample yields a presumptive positive result in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug analysis is among the most challenging techniques to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screen is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Perks of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though commonly called "hair follicle tests", the testing focuses on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Ward Ridge, FL
In Ward Ridge, FL, hair follicle testing is superior to urine tests, providing enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. With its extended detection window and lower likelihood of tampering, hair testing is a wise choice for those serious about maintaining a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Ward Ridge, FL
Hair follicle testing in Ward Ridge, FL allows for the detection of drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days, which gives employers an extensive view of an individual’s substance history. This method ensures a thorough understanding of an applicant's or employee's habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ward Ridge, FL
In Ward Ridge, FL, hair follicle testing significantly decreases the risk of sample tampering, enhancing the reliability of results. This method provides an unmatched level of security and confidence in the outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Ward Ridge, FL
With numerous testing facilities nationwide, including in Ward Ridge, FL, our centers provide hassle-free access to testing services. This ensures that individuals can easily undergo testing without added stress.
Simple, Confidential Process in Ward Ridge, FL
Our testing procedure in Ward Ridge, FL is both simple and private, ensuring your concerns about privacy are seriously addressed. The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving results is straightforward and secure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Ward Ridge, FL
We offer competitive pricing for our hair follicle tests in Ward Ridge, FL, ensuring excellent value while providing rapid turnaround times. Our services cater to businesses of all sizes, offering peace of mind at affordable rates.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Ward Ridge, FL
Ward Ridge, FL boasts speedy and precise hair follicle drug tests, known for their high accuracy in detecting substances. This form of testing ensures that results are delivered efficiently and reliably, offering a dependable alternative for those requiring timely drug screening.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ward Ridge, FL
Using hair follicle testing in Ward Ridge, FL ensures that employers maintain compliance with workplace drug-free policies. This approach reduces legal risks and boosts workplace safety by providing an effective drug testing solution.
