Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a repository for long-term substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When gathered from the scalp, it offers up to a roughly three-month detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, less prone to tampering, and easily transportable.
A 1.5-inch snippet of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For tests involving EtG, add-ons, or more than 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. It is advisable to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, it refers solely to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (like facial or axillary).
Process Overview
The key stages in the lab processing of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning deals with the sample's initial integration into a lab's system. This step verifies proper sealing and shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes data entry not included in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment for drug abuse. Though Screening is cost-efficient for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for court acceptance. Samples presumptively positive in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests positive in Screening, additional hair from the specimen is prepared for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is carried out via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All positive samples are washed before confirmation, as necessary. The full laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests," the actual test analyzes the hair strand rather than the follicle itself beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Arlington, KY
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy and reliability. Hair samples are not easily contaminated, and they provide a clear history of substance use, making them an ideal choice for employers dedicated to maintaining a drug-free workplace. The extended detection period of hair testing reveals a comprehensive drug use profile.
Extended Detection Window in Arlington, KY
Hair follicle testing shines with its extended detection window, capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior. This provides employers with a broader understanding of an individual's substance history, making it a preferred option for long-term evaluation and ensuring that substance policies are effectively upheld.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Arlington, KY
Hair follicle tests are significantly tamper-resistant compared to other methods, reducing the chances of sample adulteration. This ensures that the results are trustworthy and difficult to dispute, providing assurance to employers and legal entities seeking accurate drug testing outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Arlington, KY
With comprehensive nationwide testing facilities, including local options in Arlington, KY, obtaining a drug test becomes a straightforward process. Accredited Drug Testing locations ensure quick access to testing services, facilitating the need for prompt and efficient drug testing procedures.
Simple, Confidential Process in Arlington, KY
The process of ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is designed to be simple and confidential. Accredited Drug Testing prioritizes privacy and user convenience, ensuring that all handling of information stays secure and that the process is stress-free.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Arlington, KY
Our competitive pricing makes high-quality drug testing accessible for businesses of all sizes. With fast turnaround times, we provide excellent value, guaranteeing that companies receive timely and cost-effective testing solutions without sacrificing accuracy or reliability.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Arlington, KY
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled accuracy and prompt results. With the ability to detect a wide range of substances quickly, they provide the precision needed for confident decision-making. Hair testing ensures that the results are both quick and reliable, establishing trustworthiness in the assessment process.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Arlington, KY
Using hair follicle testing, employers can guarantee compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This testing method lessens legal risks and fosters a safer work environment, offering peace of mind while demonstrating a commitment to employee well-being and corporate responsibility.
