Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a potent means for detecting the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a lengthy history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to roughly 90 days for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of roughly 200 hair strands (akin to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp results in 100mg of hair, which is the ideal sample size for both screening and confirmation purposes. For tests exceeding 10 panels, including EtG and add-ons, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair isn't available, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' pertains specifically to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is first processed into the laboratory's system. This step includes confirming the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial quick test for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Any sample yielding a presumptive positive result in Screening necessitates a follow-up confirmation.
For samples that are presumptively positive in Screening, more hair is extracted from the original specimen and readied for the Extraction process. Here, drugs are removed from the hair at a significantly reduced concentration compared to other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluids), which is why hair drug screening is the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation if required. The complete laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard as well as the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Broad River, GA In Broad River, GA, hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine testing due to its unparalleled detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests are less susceptible to tampering and offer a significantly extended detection window for substances compared to urine tests, making them a superior choice for those enforcing drug-free environments.
Extended Detection Window in Broad River, GA Hair follicle tests provide a substantial advantage over other methods by offering a detection window of up to 90 days in Broad River, GA. This capability enables employers to gain comprehensive insights into a candidate or employee's substance use, ensuring thorough evaluations and aiding in informed decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Broad River, GA The resilience of hair follicle tests against tampering is a paramount benefit in Broad River, GA. By significantly reducing the likelihood of sample adulteration, these tests furnish employers and regulatory bodies with unmatched reliability and unquestionable results, fostering confidence in drug screening processes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Broad River, GA Accredited Drug Testing offers numerous convenient testing centers nationwide, including local options in Broad River, GA, ensuring efficient, effortless access to testing services. Clients benefit from a streamlined experience, facilitating smooth and hassle-free drug testing engagements across various locales.
Simple, Confidential Process in Broad River, GA The hair follicle testing process in Broad River, GA, is designed to be straightforward and private. Clients enjoy a seamless experience from ordering to obtaining results, with heightened confidentiality that addresses privacy concerns and simplifies the overall testing journey.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Broad River, GA Our competitive pricing structures in Broad River, GA, coupled with fast turnaround times, make hair follicle testing an excellent value. Whether serving small businesses or large corporations, this testing offers economic benefits and quick results, assuring peace of mind and efficient operation.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Broad River, GA Hair follicle drug tests in Broad River, GA, stand out for their rapid and precise results, offering unmatched speed and accuracy in substance detection. Employers and individuals find reassurance in their trustworthiness, as they provide a detailed view into an individual's substance use history, enhancing decision-making and policy enforcement.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Broad River, GA Adopting hair follicle testing in Broad River, GA, ensures employers remain compliant with drug-free workplace policies. This testing method mitigates legal risks while enhancing workplace safety, providing employers with peace of mind and promoting a healthier, more secure working environment.