Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now acknowledged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged history of drug and alcohol use by locking biomarkers within the growing strand’s fibers. When obtained from near the scalp, hair can offer an approximately 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hairs (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for testing and verification. For EtG testing, supplementary tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's advisable to measure the sample with a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for drug test analysis involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of integrating a sample into a lab's system. This phase involves checking if the sample was correctly sealed and sent, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and inputting any extra information not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers a preliminary rapid examination for substance misuse. While Screening provides a budget-friendly method to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires verification to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples that show a potential positive in Screening need further confirmation.
If a sample shows a potential positive during Screening, more hair is retrieved from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, substances are extracted from hair at concentrations considerably lower than those in other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), highlighting the complexity of hair drug analysis.
Confirmation for any positive screening outcome is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumed positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests examine the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in South Newport, GA
Hair testing offers numerous advantages over traditional urine tests. It not only provides a longer detection window but also enhances test accuracy. Unlike urine tests, hair analysis removes the risk of tampering or cheating, delivering more reliable outcomes.
Extended Detection Window in South Newport, GA
Hair follicle testing stands out with its ability to identify drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This extended timeframe gives employers a detailed view of an individual's substance history, making informed decisions easier in South Newport.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in South Newport, GA
Hair follicle tests drastically minimize the chances of sample manipulation, offering reliable and conclusive results. This integrity makes them a trusted choice for those seeking accurate drug testing in South Newport, GA.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in South Newport, GA
With a network of testing centers available nationwide, accessing drug testing services is effortless in South Newport. This widespread reach assures a seamless, convenient testing experience for all.
Simple, Confidential Process in South Newport, GA
Ordering and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and discreet. This process addresses privacy concerns and simplifies drug testing, ensuring ease for those located in South Newport.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in South Newport, GA
Offering competitive pricing and rapid result delivery, hair follicle testing provides excellent value. The swift processing time accommodates the needs of businesses of all sizes in South Newport.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in South Newport, GA
Hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their exceptional precision, promising quick and dependable outcomes. The accuracy of hair analysis in identifying substance use is notably higher, providing confidence in every result. In South Newport, such efficiency in testing ensures swift and credible findings.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in South Newport, GA
Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This practice reduces legal liabilities and promotes a safer working environment in South Newport, enhancing overall employer confidence.
