Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By encasing biomarkers in the strands of hair as it grows, hair provides a comprehensive long-term record of alcohol and drug use. When hair is obtained near the scalp, it can offer a detection period of up to 3 months for substances like alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, tampering is relatively challenging, and transportation is convenient.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) proximal to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the preferred quantity for testing and confirmation. For EtG, additional evaluations, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen amount of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is not obtainable, the same quantity of body hair may be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial input of a sample into a laboratory’s database. This step verifies proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of a preliminary rapid test for drug abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be legally valid. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive result in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and readied for Extraction. During this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex method to implement.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo a cleansing process before confirmation if needed. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing surpasses urine testing in several ways. In West Brevard, FL, hair tests are not only more accurate but also provide a longer detection window. While urine tests detect recent drug use, hair tests trace drug use over the past 90 days, ensuring thorough examination.
The precision of hair testing effectively prevents circumvention, unlike urine tests that are vulnerable to tampering and masking agents.
When compared to traditional urine testing, hair follicle methods stand out in reliability. This comprehensive approach offers clarity in drug-use history, aiding employers in maintaining strict drug-free policies. Hair testing fortifies the trustworthiness of results, making it a superior choice for prolonged detection periods.
The significant advantage of hair follicle testing lies in its extended detection window. In West Brevard, FL, this method traces substance use over a span of up to 90 days. This long range provides employers profound insights into the history of an individual’s drug use, surpassing the limited timeframe of urine tests.
For companies aiming to maintain a drug-free workplace, utilizing hair testing ensures a comprehensive review of potential hires and existing employees. This method's extended detection capability aids in making informed decisions effectively, mitigating the risks associated with substance abuse in corporate environments.
Hair follicle tests provide a robust solution to the issue of test tampering. Unlike urine samples, hair samples are difficult to adulterate, assuring trustworthy results. In West Brevard, FL, this tamper-resistant approach guarantees integrity in drug testing processes.
Utilizing hair testing reduces security concerns for employers. The method's inherent resistance to cheating offers a credible strategy for organizations to rely on. Ensuring authentic samples bolsters confidence in results, fostering responsible substance use management in the workplace.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient access to testing centers nationwide, including in West Brevard, FL. Our extensive network ensures that testing services are readily available across all major cities, supporting rapid and hassle-free testing processes.
Our strategically placed locations allow individuals and employers to easily schedule and undertake tests at nearby facilities, enhancing accessibility and comfort. This widespread presence streamlines logistics, ensuring minimal disruption to daily activities while facilitating efficient testing procedures.
In West Brevard, FL, the hair follicle testing process is designed to be simple and confidential. Ordering a test is straightforward, and taking the test involves a clear, quick procedure that prioritizes privacy, respecting the individual’s need for discretion.
From booking to result delivery, the focus on confidentiality is paramount. This ease of use coupled with secure handling of results ensures that individuals and organizations feel comfortable and assured about the integrity and privacy of the testing process.
Affordability and rapid turnaround define the hair testing services in West Brevard, FL. Competitive pricing structures offer excellent value, accommodating companies of all sizes. This financial accessibility complements the timeliness of test results.
Fast processing times guarantee quick feedback, essential for timely decision-making. By balancing cost-effectiveness with speed, organizations gain an advantageous tool in maintaining compliance and ensuring workplace safety without straining budgets.
The speed and precision of hair follicle drug tests set them apart. In West Brevard, FL, this method provides highly accurate results. The sensitivity of hair testing ensures swift detection of a variety of substances, offering a clear and comprehensive overview of drug use.
Quick results are essential for critical decisions. Hair testing facilitates this by delivering fast, reliable outcomes, making it an invaluable tool for individuals and employers alike. The method's ability to rapidly gather data ensures timely action in substance use cases.
Employers in West Brevard, FL can find peace of mind with hair follicle testing. This method ensures strict adherence to drug-free policies, reducing potential legal exposures. By choosing hair testing, organizations demonstrate commitment to safety and compliance.
The implementation of hair testing aligns with regulatory standards, promoting a secure work environment. This fosters employee safety, minimizes risks, and supports seamless operation within legal frameworks. A consistent drug-free policy underscores an employer's dedication to lawful and ethical conduct.
