Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of alcohol and drugs because it traps biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can indicate alcohol and drug use for up to roughly 90 days. Hair is easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 strands (around the width of a #2 pencil) from the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For tests including EtG, add-ons, and panels above 10, it is advisable to collect 150mg of the sample. Precise weighing using a jeweler’s scale is advised. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be gathered. The term head hair specifically denotes scalp hair. Body hair incorporates all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step in processing a sample into a lab's system. This step verifies proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any needed data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is an initial swift check for drug abuse. Although Screening is an economical way to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be legally admissible. Samples with presumptive positive results necessitate additional confirmation.
With presumptive positives at the Screening phase, further hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. In this stage, drugs are extracted from the hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluids), making hair drug testing the most complex methodology.
Confirmation of positive screening results is conducted through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation, as needed. The complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed "hair follicle tests", the testing actually evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in West Point, GA
Hair follicle drug testing outshines urine tests with its superior detection accuracy. Employers in West Point, GA find this method more reliable due to its longer detection window and observed collection, making it harder to manipulate and providing robust compliance standards.
Extended Detection Window in West Point, GA
One of the major strengths of hair follicle drug testing is its extended detection period, which can span up to 90 days. This extended window allows employers to have a more comprehensive view of an applicant or employee's drug history, offering a broader understanding of substance use over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in West Point, GA
The hair follicle test significantly decreases the chance of adulteration. Its collection and testing process are structured in a way that ensures the results are reliable and unquestionable, making it a trustworthy option for sensitive and high-stake scenarios.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in West Point, GA
With our widespread testing locations, both nationwide and locally in West Point, accessing testing services is quick and hassle-free. The convenience offered by our numerous centers allows for seamless and prompt scheduling and testing.
Simple, Confidential Process in West Point, GA
Our hair follicle testing procedure is straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving the results, the entire process safeguards privacy and is designed for ease of use. Clients can confidently rely on the security and simplicity of our services.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in West Point, GA
Offering competitive pricing and swift turnaround times, our hair follicle testing services deliver excellent value to businesses of any size in West Point. Clients benefit from the economic advantages and quick outcomes of our efficient testing.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in West Point, GA
Hair follicle drug testing in West Point, GA stands out for its precision in detecting drug use. Its accuracy is superior to traditional methods, swiftly delivering results with unparalleled reliability. The efficiency of these tests ensures quick results, making them the go-to choice for many.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in West Point, GA
Employers in West Point can achieve peace of mind through hair follicle testing, which supports workplace drug-free policies. The method helps mitigate legal risks, enhancing safety and compliance, and ensuring a more secure workplace environment.
