Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It offers an extended timeline of substance usage by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug presence for roughly up to a three-month period. The collection of hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of around 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, additional tests, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to determine specimen weight. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable quantity of body hair is acceptable. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair pertains to all other forms of body hair (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The procedure for analyzing a drug test result in a laboratory consists of four essential phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is initially processed into the laboratory's system. This step ensures the sample's secure sealing and proper shipment, assigns it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any additional data entry beyond an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary inspection for the presence of drugs of abuse. While Screening offers a budget-friendly means to eliminate drug use in most samples, positive screenings must be confirmed for court validity. Samples that are potentially positive during Screening require further confirmation.
If Screening results are potentially positive, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. At this phase, drugs are removed from the hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid, explaining why hair drug analysis is one of the more intricate methodologies to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive results from Screening is accomplished using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, any potentially positive samples undergo washing as necessary. The entire process from Accessioning through Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Naylor, GA
Hair follicle tests outshine urine tests by providing superior detection accuracy and reliability. Their ability to capture a longer drug-use history offers a more comprehensive picture than urine tests, which only detect recent use. This accuracy and extended detection make hair tests the preferred choice for stringent testing needs.
Extended Detection Window in Naylor, GA
Hair follicle testing's ability to detect substance use up to 90 days offers employers a more thorough understanding of candidates' drug histories. This extended detection window allows for informed employment decisions and ongoing monitoring, setting the hair test apart from traditional testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Naylor, GA
The hair follicle test significantly reduces the potential for sample tampering or adulteration. With a collection process that hinders cheating, this method delivers trustworthy and indisputable results, ensuring confidence in the integrity of the testing procedure.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Naylor, GA
Our network of nationwide testing centers, including convenient locations in Naylor, GA, ensures hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. This widespread availability guarantees quick and easy testing options, no matter where you are located.
Simple, Confidential Process in Naylor, GA
The hair follicle testing process is designed to be both straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to obtaining results, the process respects privacy, ensuring users can undertake testing with ease and secure their personal information throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Naylor, GA
Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times offer outstanding value for organizations of all kinds. These benefits make hair follicle testing an accessible and efficient choice, providing timely results without compromising on cost-effectiveness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Naylor, GA
The hair follicle drug test stands out due to its speed and reliability, offering precision in detecting substance use patterns. This advantage ensures trust in results, as the accuracy rates far surpass traditional methods, positioning the hair test as a preferred option for time-sensitive and detailed substance assessments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Naylor, GA
Employing hair follicle testing assures compliance with zero-tolerance drug policies, minimizing legal liabilities and enhancing workplace safety. This testing method provides employers with peace of mind, knowing their workforce adheres to established drug-free standards.
