Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers within the strands of growing hair, it offers a detailed history of substance use. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a usage pattern for alcohol and drugs up to roughly three months. Hair is easy to gather, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A section measuring 1.5 inches containing about 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in size) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the best sample for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for specimen measurement. When scalp hair is absent, equivalent body hair can be collected. Head hair denotes scalp hair exclusively. Body hair refers to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test is divided into four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This step checks that the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. While economically advantageous for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Any samples testing presumptively positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
Should a sample test positive initially, more hair is drawn from the original batch for the Extraction step. Drugs are then isolated from hair at a much lower concentration in this stage than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening the most complex method to perform.
Confirmed positive screening results are achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives are washed pre-confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually involves the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle testing to urine tests in Garfield, GA, the former emerges as more superior. The accuracy and reliability of hair tests are unparalleled, detecting usage long after urine tests fade. Its comprehensive nature sets it apart, providing a clear advantage over traditional methods.
Employers in Garfield, GA benefit from the hair follicle test's extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug use over a 90-day period, it provides a comprehensive account of an individual's substance involvement. This extensive timeline aids employers in assessing an applicant or employee's long-term habits.
Hair follicle tests in Garfield, GA are practically impervious to tampering, significantly minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. This makes the method trustworthy, ensuring results are reliable and genuine, providing confidence to those relying on its accuracy.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient testing centers nationwide, including in Garfield, GA. The widespread availability ensures quick access to services, enhancing convenience and ease for those requiring testing.
In Garfield, GA, the process of obtaining a hair follicle drug test is straightforward and private. From ordering to collection and result reporting, every step ensures confidentiality and simplicity, addressing any concerns surrounding privacy and user-friendliness.
Offering competitive pricing in Garfield, GA, Accredited Drug Testing guarantees quick turnaround times coupled with affordability. This excellent value ensures that businesses of all sizes receive quality service without financial strain.
In Garfield, GA, hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their precision and speed in determining substance use. Known for delivering accurate results swiftly, they help employers make informed decisions quickly. The rapid processing of hair samples ensures that any workplace substance concerns are addressed without delay.
In Garfield, GA, hair follicle testing aids employers in adhering to drug-free policies, mitigating legal challenges and boosting workplace safety. The assurance provided by this method creates a peaceful work environment, compliant and free from substance abuse risks.
