In Austin, Kentucky, Accredited Drug Testing offers a full array of hair follicle drug tests. For those needing a hair or alcohol test, we are experts in hair testing with locations in every city Nationwide to conduct these tests. Typically, at least 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the scalp or body is needed. These tests can detect drugs, alcohol/ETG, or be tailored for other specific analyses.
Over recent years, hair follicle drug testing has grown in prevalence. Various employers, judicial systems, and substance abuse professionals prefer hair drug tests to the traditional urine tests. These tests are favored by those enforcing zero-tolerance policies, by the court system, and for individuals on probation. One significant advantage is the extended detection window of up to 90 days, which is monitored through an observed collection process, making it extremely challenging to falsify. However, for detecting drug use within a 5-day period, urine tests remain the preferred method.
* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center. You must bring a valid government issued ID along with the registration/barcode number which was sent to you by email.
When you're searching for hair drug testing near me or hair drug testing locations, we provide a simple and convenient process to find a drug and alcohol testing location near you that is certified to provide all of your drug and alcohol testing needs.
Hair analysis is widely regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The strands capture markers in the growing fibers, presenting a timeline of substance intake. When clipped near the scalp, these strands can offer insights into up to a three-month period for monitoring alcohol and drug use. The collection process is straightforward, reducing the possibility of tampering, and facilitates easy transport.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches (roughly equivalent to the diameter of a #2 pencil) cut closest to the scalp yields 100mg, ideal for preliminary and confirmatory analysis. For tests involving EtG, additional screenings, or more than 10 types (panels), 150mg is advised. It is beneficial to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, the same amount of body hair can serve as an alternative. Here, "head hair" refers strictly to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other varieties (such as facial or underarm hair).
Process Overview
The primary phases in lab processing of a drug testing outcome encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails integrating a sample into the lab’s records. This phase ensures samples are stored correctly and transported securely, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entries missing from an electronic custody log.
Screening provides an initial evaluation for substance traces. Though economical for excluding substances in most cases, positive screenings need additional verification for legal acceptability. Samples showing potential positives in this phase must go through further Confirmation.
In situations where the Screening phase indicates potential positivity, additional hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. At this stage, low concentrations of substances are isolated from the hair, a distinction that sets hair testing apart as particularly challenging compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva tests).
Confirming any positive results from the screening leverages techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive hairs undergo a cleansing process before final analysis as deemed necessary. The entire series of lab procedures from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests," the actual analysis concerns the strand itself and not the scalp-embedded follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Austin, KY
Comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests reveals superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing not only identifies drug usage more effectively, but also offers a prolonged detection time, making it a more comprehensive method for ensuring a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Austin, KY
One of the standout benefits of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window, which spans up to 90 days. This lengthy timeframe allows employers to gain a broader understanding of an applicant's or employee's substance use history, aiding in better-informed decision making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Austin, KY
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the risk of sample tampering, offering reliable and indisputable results. The nature of the hair sample makes it extremely challenging to alter, ensuring that the results remain credible and trustworthy for all stakeholders involved.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Austin, KY
With a widespread network of testing centers, our services are quick and hassle-free. Regardless of location, access to reliable and efficient testing is guaranteed, ensuring that all testing needs are met swiftly and conveniently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Austin, KY
Ordering, taking, and receiving results is straightforward and confidential, making the entire process stress-free. Our streamlined approach ensures privacy and simplicity at every step, ensuring peace of mind for all parties involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Austin, KY
We offer competitive pricing with rapid turnaround times, providing unparalleled value. Our cost-effective solutions and swift results cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring that quality and value are both delivered promptly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Austin, KY
Hair follicle drug tests provide rapid and highly reliable detection of substance use. Known for their accuracy, these tests accurately pinpoint drug use, offering precise results swiftly, much to the benefit of both employers and individuals seeking trustworthy analyses.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Austin, KY
Incorporating hair follicle testing ensures compliance with workplace drug-free policies. This not only reduces the legal risks involved but also enhances overall workplace safety, providing employers with a sense of peace and certainty regarding employee substance use.
