Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Flatwoods, KY

What it is, How it works

The analysis of hair has become recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures a long-term record of substance use by securing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When taken from close to the scalp, hair can reveal a window of up to roughly three months for detecting drugs and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to mail.

A specimen measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 strands of hair (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp comprises 100mg, considered optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or those beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is suggested. We advise using a jeweler's scale for exact measurement of the specimen. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. The term 'head hair' specifically refers to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The procedure for handling a drug test result in the laboratory includes four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial stage where the sample is integrated into the lab's system. This process includes ensuring that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary test for identifying drugs of abuse. Although this step is a budget-friendly way to screen most samples for drug use, any positive result from Screening must be confirmed to be valid in legal settings. Samples that test positive during Screening require a follow-up confirmation.

In cases where a sample tests positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is gathered from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are retrieved from hair at significantly lower concentrations than found in other testing methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex testing method available.

Any positive results from the initial screening are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples are laundered as necessary. The whole lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated in accordance to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation standards and ISO / IEC 17025 certifications.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Long detection window: Hair drug tests can ascertain drug use for as much as 90 days, as opposed to urine tests, which have a briefer detection span.
• Difficulty to cheat: It is exceedingly difficult to falsify results on a hair drug test, thereby ensuring more precise outcomes.
• Provides historical data: The test can outline a timeline of drug use over an extended period, rather than just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect recent use: Drugs become detectable in hair within approximately 5-7 days.
• Cost: Hair drug testing is usually pricier compared to alternative drug testing approaches.
• Variations in results: Circumstances like hair color and personal differences in hair growth can impact the levels of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests," the examination actually focuses on the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Flatwoods, KY

One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing over urine testing is its ability to detect drugs for an extended period, up to 90 days. Unlike the brief detection window of urine tests, hair tests provide a more comprehensive analysis. This makes hair testing desirable for environments demanding stringent substance use policies.

Moreover, hair follicle testing offers unmatched reliability. Where urine tests can be tampered with or affected by hydration levels, hair tests present a practically cheat-proof methodology. This ensures that employers and other organizations in Flatwoods, KY receive results they can rely on, securing a better understanding of an individual's drug use history.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Flatwoods, KY

Hair follicle testing is renowned for its capacity to uncover substance use over a prolonged period, typically up to 90 days. This capability offers employers in Flatwoods, KY the assurance of a broad view into the history of an employee or applicant's drug usage. By choosing hair testing, organizations benefit from a detailed account that urine tests simply can't provide.

Utilizing the longer detection period means that employers are not just informed about recent activities but can evaluate ongoing behavior patterns. Thus, hair follicle testing empowers businesses with critical data that can inform hiring decisions and ongoing employee assessments, bolstering workplace integrity and safety.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Flatwoods, KY

In Flatwoods, KY, hair follicle tests offer a robust alternative to conventional testing methods, particularly due to their resistance to tampering. This test type minimizes the common risk of sample adulteration that often compromises the reliability of drug test results. With hair testing, employers are assured of the authenticity and accuracy of results.

Unlike urine tests, which can be manipulated with relative ease, hair analysis requires the actual hair sample, making it virtually impossible to alter. This security makes hair follicle testing the preferred selection for organizations seeking verifiable and unquestionable drug screening outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Flatwoods, KY

Accredited Drug Testing provides extensive convenience through its nationwide centers, inclusive of local testing in Flatwoods, KY. Our broad network ensures that individuals and companies can quickly access testing services when needed. This accessibility translates to minimal travel for participants and maximizes efficiency for businesses.

Our strategically located facilities guarantee that no matter where you are, a testing center is within reach. This network significantly enhances customer experience by providing easy and hassle-free access to essential drug testing services, a vital factor for busy organizations.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Flatwoods, KY

At Accredited Drug Testing, the process for hair follicle testing in Flatwoods, KY is straightforward and discreet. Individuals can order tests easily, and the procedure itself respects privacy throughout. Confidentiality is paramount, and every step from collection to results maintains this commitment.

The seamless approach to our testing services alleviates concerns around privacy and complexity. Participants can rest assured that their personal information and results are handled with confidentiality and care, creating a stress-free experience that respects individual privacy throughout the process.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Flatwoods, KY

Accredited Drug Testing in Flatwoods, KY offers competitive pricing for hair follicle tests, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can access our reliable testing services without breaking the bank. Coupled with swift turnaround times, we provide an excellent balance of cost and efficiency that meets the diverse needs of our clientele.

By choosing our service, organizations not only benefit from top-tier testing methods but also enjoy quick results, often delivered within a few business days. This combination of affordability and speed enhances value, reinforcing our commitment to being a trusted partner in drug testing solutions.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Flatwoods, KY

Hair follicle testing stands out in Flatwoods, KY for its exceptional precision in substance detection. This method offers quick, reliable results, ensuring accuracy each time a test is conducted. In comparison to other testing methods, it provides a robust detection mechanism, identifying a wide array of substances with outstanding efficiency and speed.

This testing form is designed to meet the needs of busy professionals and organizations. Thanks to its efficient process, individuals and companies in Flatwoods, KY can trust hair follicle tests to provide timely insights into drug use scenarios. The accuracy of these tests ensures a high degree of trust, eliminating doubts and offering peace of mind.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Flatwoods, KY

For employers in Flatwoods, KY, hair follicle testing is a critical tool for ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies. It reduces potential legal risks by providing a reliable method for detecting drug use. By offering more comprehensive insights, employers can foster a safer working environment and bolster confidence in their hiring processes.

This form of testing not only adheres to regulatory standards but also instills peace of mind by demonstrating a clear commitment to maintaining a secure and substance-free workplace. Employers benefit from having a stringent, consistent approach to managing the complexities of workplace health and safety.

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