Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained popularity as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a comprehensive history of substance use by retaining biomarkers within the fibers of hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal evidence of drug and alcohol use over a period of roughly three months. This type of sample is straightforward to obtain, resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, featuring around 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and confirmation processes. For tests such as EtG, add-ons, and those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. It’s advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. Head hair refers specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for a drug test result encompasses four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into a lab's system. This involves confirming the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any further data entry that an electronic chain of custody system has not captured.
Screening is an initial swift evaluation for potential drug abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use in most samples, any indication of drug presence must be confirmed for legal substantiation. Samples that appear positive in Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
If Screening results suggest a sample is positive, additional hair is extracted from the primary sample and processed for the Extraction stage. During this phase, drug compounds are separated from the hair at substantially lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a particularly challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcomes is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Prior to confirmation, all samples presumed positive undergo washing as necessary. The whole laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review according to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Augusta, GA
Hair testing trumps the older urine method by identifying drug residues over extended periods. Not only does it boast superior accuracy and reliability, but it also helps pinpoint long-term substance use habits. For residents of Augusta needing dependable testing, the choice is clear.
Extended Detection Window in Augusta, GA
With hair follicle testing, drug use detection covers up to 90 days, offering employers deeper insight into the substance usage history of applicants or existing personnel. It stands as a valuable tool for those in Augusta seeking thorough substance assessments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Augusta, GA
Hair follicle testing significantly diminishes the chances of sample tampering, assuring accurate and indisputable results. Those in Augusta relying on this method find unsurpassed assurance in its tamper-proof nature.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Augusta, GA
Across the nation, including Augusta, our testing facilities guarantee swift and simplified access to testing services. Their convenience ensures minimal disruption to daily routines, making them ideal for communities all over.
Simple, Confidential Process in Augusta, GA
The hair testing procedure is straightforward and maintains confidentiality. From ordering to obtaining results, users experience an easy and private process, addressing privacy concerns effectively for Augusta’s residents.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Augusta, GA
Our competitive pricing supports varied budgets, complemented by rapid result delivery. This combination provides exceptional value for Augusta companies of all scales, reinforcing trust and financial soundness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Augusta, GA
Hair follicle drug testing offers precision with unmatched speed. These tests ensure high accuracy in revealing drug use, providing Augusta’s residents with reliable insights into substance intake. Swift and trustworthy results put these tests ahead in detecting substance abuse.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Augusta, GA
Employing hair follicle tests aids businesses in Augusta to stay compliant with drug-free policies. It reduces legal vulnerabilities while ensuring a secure working environment, providing peace of mind to both employers and employees alike.
