Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a lasting record of substances through the integration of biomarkers within the hair strand's fibers as they develop. When gathered from areas near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of up to three months for drugs and alcohol. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch portion, consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (around the diameter of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, additional tests, and those exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for accurate measurement of the specimen. If scalp hair is inaccessible, an equivalent mass of body hair can be used. The term "head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the sample's introduction into the laboratory system, which involves verifying the sample's seal and proper shipping, allotting a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry not included in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial assessment for drug presence. While Screening offers a cost-efficient way to eliminate drug use in most samples, positive results must be confirmed to be suitable for legal proceedings. Samples that test positive in Screening are subject to a secondary confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive result during Screening, additional hair is taken from the specimen for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at much lower concentrations than other testing methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive specimens undergo washing prior to confirmation as required. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often mentioned as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually targets the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Stillwell, GA
Hair follicle testing outperforms traditional urine tests by offering superior detection accuracy and reliability. In Stillwell, GA, this method shines due to its extended detection period and inability to be easily tampered with. Employers who choose hair follicle tests receive a more comprehensive insight into potential substance use, enhancing safety and compliance with regulations.
Extended Detection Window in Stillwell, GA
Hair follicle testing provides a long window of detection, tracing drug use up to 90 days. For employers in Stillwell, GA, this means a thorough understanding of a candidate or employee's drug history. This extended period is crucial for maintaining a drug-free environment, offering insights that other testing methods cannot match.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Stillwell, GA
Hair follicle tests considerably lessen the chances of sample tampering, ensuring results are both trustworthy and undeniable. In Stillwell, GA, where maintaining integrity and reliability is essential, this method provides an edge by eliminating the possibility of adulteration, making it ideal for critical drug testing scenarios.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Stillwell, GA
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation and in Stillwell, GA, delivers optimal convenience. Employers and individuals alike benefit from the ease and access to quick, stress-free testing services, making compliance seamless and efficient wherever they are located.
Simple, Confidential Process in Stillwell, GA
The hair follicle testing procedure in Stillwell, GA is straightforward and private, ensuring user data remains confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, the process is designed to be user-friendly and respectful of privacy concerns, presenting an appealing option for those worried about confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Stillwell, GA
In Stillwell, GA, hair follicle testing is competitively priced, offering quick processing times and excellent value. The combination of affordability and swift result turnaround makes it an attractive choice for businesses of any size seeking efficient and cost-effective drug testing methods.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Stillwell, GA
Hair follicle drug testing is prized for its high precision and reliability. These tests quickly and effectively detect substance use, ensuring dependable results. In the fast-paced environment of Stillwell, GA, this testing method provides a clear advantage over traditional methods due to its superior accuracy, making it the preferred choice for employers requiring trust-worthy results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Stillwell, GA
Through hair follicle testing, employers in Stillwell, GA can adhere to workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal liabilities and boosting workplace safety. This method not only ensures compliance but grants peace of mind, knowing the company's drug testing standards are of the highest order, promoting a secure work environment.
