Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective approach for identifying the presence of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a comprehensive history by embedding biomarkers within the strands’ fibers as they grow. Collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection period for alcohol and drugs of up to roughly 3 months. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easily transported.
A sample of 1.5 inches containing approximately 200 strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil in size) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or analyses beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. A jeweler’s scale is recommended for accurate weight measurement. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be taken. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the entry of a sample into a lab system. This process ensures the sample is correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry lacking from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial, swift assessment for drug abuse. While it’s a cost-effective means to exclude drug usage for most samples, any positive screen must be confirmed for legal acceptance. Samples that are positive during Screening require additional confirmation.
With a presumptive positive result in Screening, further hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), highlighting why hair drug analysis poses more complex challenges.
Confirmation of any positive findings from Screening is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is subject to review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the assessment targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Powder Springs, GA, hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine testing through enhanced detection capabilities. Hair testing identifies substances with superior accuracy over an extended period, thereby delivering more reliable results.
Compared to urine tests, which are susceptible to manipulation and possess a shorter detection span, hair tests present an undeniable advantage. They reveal substance use histories with greater precision, offering invaluable insights to decision-makers.
The extended detection window offered by hair follicle testing in Powder Springs, GA, serves as a critical tool for employers. This method's ability to trace drug use up to 90 days ensures a comprehensive overview of a person's substance history.
With an aptitude for long-term detection, hair testing excels in presenting a detailed account of past drug use, ultimately aiding employers in making informed decisions regarding potential or current employees' fitness for duty.
Hair follicle testing in Powder Springs, GA, presents a robust solution to prevent sample adulteration. By implementing this method, the chances of tampering with test samples are significantly minimized, producing conclusive outcomes.
Employing this testing option ensures reliable, tamper-resistant results, fostering confidence amongst parties relying on the certainty of test results for important decisions.
Our extensive network ensures convenient access to testing facilities in and around Powder Springs, GA. Enjoy quick, hassle-free testing thanks to dozens of nationwide centers ready to accommodate your needs.
The accessibility of our services maximizes efficiency, ensuring individuals and businesses have an effortless experience when seeking reliable testing options close to home.
The testing process in Powder Springs, GA, simplifies the experience from order to results. Its design underscores confidentiality and ease, offering a seamless testing journey.
Privacy remains a priority, ensuring the process respects each individual's concerns while delivering results accurately and swiftly, presenting an entirely straightforward and discreet process for all.
Powder Springs, GA, benefits from affordable pricing and rapid turnaround times in hair follicle testing. Our competitive pricing ensures excellent value, catering to businesses of varying sizes.
The combination of cost-efficiency and fast results delivers an optimal solution for companies seeking reliable testing methods, ultimately contributing to peace of mind.
The precision and rapidity of hair follicle drug testing in Powder Springs, GA, offer a formidable advantage. These tests boast high accuracy levels in detecting substance use, ensuring that test results are not only swift but reliable in indicating an individual's history.
With hair testing, results are generated quickly while maintaining a high degree of accuracy, making this method the preferred choice for those who seek credible outcomes. Timely information delivery ensures prompt decision-making based on factual data.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Powder Springs, GA, ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This testing helps mitigate legal risks while promoting a safer, more secure environment for employees and employers alike.
Employers gain peace of mind, knowing the decision to employ stringent testing methods aids in maintaining a compliant and responsible workplace culture.
