Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective measure for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged history of alcohol and other drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When gathered near the scalp, hair can furnish up to a 3-month detection period for alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and easy for transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the ideal quantity for analysis. For EtG, extra tests, and/or screenings beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for accuracy. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair may be used. When we mention head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair covers all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary handling of a sample into a laboratory system. This step confirms the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a swift preliminary test for drugs of major concern. While Screening is an economical method to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result needs confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Samples found presumptively positive during Screening require subsequent confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive result in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and processed for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g. urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair drug testing is the most intricate method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples showing presumptive positives are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While frequently called "hair follicle tests", the test analyzes the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
In Austell, GA, hair follicle testing prevails over urine tests significantly. This advanced method provides superior accuracy and reliability, detecting substance use with remarkable precision. Unlike urine tests that only identify recent consumption, hair tests reveal a comprehensive substance history, capturing long-term patterns. This insight offers employers and authorities a broader scope of an individual's drug use profile.
Employers in Austell, GA benefit greatly from the extended detection window offered by hair follicle testing. Capable of tracing drug use up to 90 days prior, this method provides an expansive view of an individual's substance history. By covering a longer timeframe, employers gain a more complete understanding of applicants' or employees' habits, aiding in informed hiring and retention decisions.
Hair follicle drug testing in Austell, GA offers a testing method that is significantly tamper-resistant. Unlike other forms of drug testing, hair samples are difficult to adulterate, ensuring the reliability of test results. This secure method deters attempts at manipulation, providing unquestionable evidence of substance use and enhancing the credibility of the testing process.
Convenience is key with our widespread testing centers, including those in Austell, GA. These nationwide facilities guarantee easy and hassle-free access to drug testing services. Whether locally or across the country, individuals can swiftly find a nearby center, facilitating seamless testing experiences. This accessibility ensures timely and efficient service for all clients.
In Austell, GA, our drug testing process is designed to be both simple and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, each step is streamlined to prioritize privacy and ease of use. Clients can confidently navigate the procedure, assured of discreet handling and clear communication throughout the testing journey. This simplicity enhances user experience and satisfaction.
Our competitive pricing in Austell, GA ensures affordable access to accurate drug testing. Coupled with fast turnaround times, our services deliver value and certainty for businesses of all sizes. By offering cost-effective solutions without compromising quality, companies can maintain their standards while managing expenses effectively.
The precision of hair follicle drug testing in Austell, GA is unrivaled. These tests offer swift and highly accurate detection of substance use, surpassing traditional methods in speed and reliability. Each test is meticulously conducted to ensure results reflect true usage patterns, providing peace of mind to those needing exact assessments. With quick processing times, results are delivered efficiently, enabling prompt decision-making.
For employers in Austell, GA, hair follicle testing ensures compliance with workplace drug-free policies, ushering peace of mind. By adopting this rigorous testing method, organizations reduce legal risks and improve workplace safety, aligning with regulatory standards. This commitment to a drug-free environment also strengthens trust and efficiency within the workforce.
