Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as a potent method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair provides a chronicle of alcohol and substance use by containing biomarkers within the strands of the hair as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to around 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and straightforward to ship.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with about 200 strands of hair (approximately as thick as a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for testing and validation. For EtG, additional markers, and/or examinations beyond 10 panels, it is advisable to use 150mg of the sample. We suggest using a jeweler's scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we are talking exclusively about scalp hair. Body hair refers to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory drug test processing involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the sample's initial intake into the lab system. This stage ensures the sample was properly secured and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data not captured by an electronic chain of custody process.
Screening is a preliminary check for drug presence. Although Screening is a budget-friendly method to eliminate negative samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation to hold up legally. Any samples registering presumptive positives require a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair from the original sample is prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower levels than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a particularly challenging procedure.
Every positive screening result must undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positives are cleansed as necessary. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, must meet the standards of both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often called "hair follicle tests", the procedure actually evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Uvalda, GA
Comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests highlights clear advantages. One prominent benefit is the extensive detection window offered by hair analysis, capturing a wider historical window of substance use.
Moreover, hair tests excel in accuracy, reducing false positives, and are less prone to tampering, making them a superior choice in Uvalda.
Extended Detection Window in Uvalda, GA
Hair follicle testing shines with its extended detection window, often up to 90 days, offering a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance history. This extended timeframe is invaluable for employers and decision-makers in Uvalda who require a detailed insight.
It offers a distinct advantage, ensuring informed decisions based on a broader temporal analysis.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Uvalda, GA
Hair follicle testing stands out for its resilience against tampering. Its method ensures that the sample remains untouched, delivering reliable and incontestable results. In Uvalda, organizations and individuals benefit from this added security, knowing that the integrity of the test results is uncompromised.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Uvalda, GA
The availability of Accredited Drug Testing locations nationwide, including in Uvalda, GA, ensures unparalleled convenience. This network facilitates easy access to testing services, streamlining the process for individuals and businesses alike.
Quick and hassle-free testing at various sites enhances efficiency and satisfaction.
Simple, Confidential Process in Uvalda, GA
The process for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results in Uvalda is straightforward and confidential. Privacy concerns are addressed, ensuring that customers can trust the handling of their sensitive information. The entire process is designed for ease of use, consistently delivering a smooth experience from start to finish.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Uvalda, GA
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing and swift turnaround times, making hair follicle testing not only a reliable choice but also an economically sound one. Businesses of all sizes in Uvalda, GA can expect value and efficiency, knowing they’re receiving accurate results swiftly at an affordable cost.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Uvalda, GA
Hair follicle drug tests offer remarkable precision, recognized for their ability to quickly and accurately detect substance use. These tests eliminate doubt through a rigorous process that guarantees reliability. In Uvalda, GA, they empower individuals and organizations with timely insights and impeccable accuracy.
The swift turnaround ensures that actionable results are delivered without delay.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Uvalda, GA
Employers in Uvalda gain peace of mind and compliance assurance with hair follicle testing. This method supports the enforcement of drug-free workplace policies, diminishes legal exposures, and reinforces safety standards, ensuring a productive and secure working environment.
It's an integral part of a comprehensive organizational policy.