Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a record of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair can present a detection period of up to about 90 days for various substances. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.
A sample consisting of 1.5 inches and approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the ideal amount for initial screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, extra tests, and panels exceeding 10, a 150mg specimen is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. Head hair refers specifically to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial handling of a sample within a laboratory’s system. This step covers ensuring the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry not already supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for signs of drug abuse. Although Screening offers a cost-effective means to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive screening result must be confirmed for it to be permissible in judicial settings. Samples that test positive during Screening require further confirmation.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive during Screening, more hair from the original specimen is extracted and prepped for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are separated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair drug testing is particularly complex.
Confirmation of a positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Senoia, GA, hair follicle testing outshines urine tests by offering a superior detection window and reliability. One of the core benefits is its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged period, unlike urine tests. Employers value this method's precision, making it an essential tool for maintaining a drug-free workplace. The increased reliability provides assurance in results.
Hair follicle testing in Senoia, GA, provides an extended detection window, capturing drug use up to 90 days. This long timeframe allows employers to assess a candidate's substance use history comprehensively. Such insight into an individual's drug use over a broader period is invaluable, equipping employers in Senoia with critical information for informed decision-making.
Reducing the risk of manipulation, hair follicle tests ensure integrity in Senoia, GA. The tamper-resistant nature means samples can't be easily altered, guaranteeing reliable results. This authenticity makes hair follicle testing a trusted method for accurate drug detection, offering unquestionable outcomes that stand up to scrutiny for all parties involved.
In Senoia, GA, the convenience of extensive testing locations simplifies the process for individuals and employers alike. With numerous centers accessible throughout the country, accessing hair follicle testing services is easy and hassle-free. The network of nationwide and local facilities ensures Senoia residents can undertake testing with minimal effort and maximum convenience.
The hair follicle testing process in Senoia, GA, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to sampling and receiving results, each step is handled with privacy in mind. This simplicity reassures test-takers, allowing them to focus on other concerns, knowing that their privacy is guaranteed throughout the testing procedure.
Affordable pricing combined with rapid turnaround makes hair follicle testing in Senoia, GA, an attractive option. Competitive rates ensure value for businesses of any size, while quick processing times minimize delays in obtaining results. This efficient and economical approach reinforces hair testing's position as a leading choice for drug detection solutions.
The precision and rapid results of hair follicle drug tests in Senoia, GA, set them apart. These tests are adept at identifying substance use quickly. Their meticulous accuracy makes them a popular choice for those requiring reliable results without delay. Senoia residents can rely on these tests' effectiveness, providing clarity on drug use history and swift outcomes.
For Senoia, GA employers, hair follicle testing provides peace of mind through compliance with workplace drug policies. This testing method diminishes legal risks and bolsters safety across work environments. Implementing these tests secures adherence to drug-free guidelines, enhancing the company's reputation and ensuring staff remains drug-free and safe.
