Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers in the fibers of the developing hair shaft, it offers an extended history of alcohol and drug use. When collected near the scalp, hair presents a detection span of up to about three months for these substances. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to send.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches containing roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp weighs 100mg, ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is unobtainable, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. Head hair refers solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in a drug test lab process include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, samples undergo preliminary processing into the laboratory’s system. This step involves confirming correct seal and shipment of the sample, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any outstanding data entry absent from the electronic chain of custody.
The Screening phase offers a preliminary indication of drug abuse. While it is a cost-efficient means to rule out drug use in most cases, positive results from Screening require confirmation for court validity. Any samples that show presumptive positivity in Screening demand further confirmation.
Should a sample indicate potential positivity in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration level compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging approach.
Positive results from Screening undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity are washed as necessary before confirmation. The entire lab process, from Accessioning through to Confirmation, is evaluated per both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the skin.
In Garlin, KY, hair follicle testing stands superior to urine tests due to its enhanced detection capabilities. Unlike traditional urine testing, hair tests provide a robust detection window, reflecting substance use over an extended period. This method is reliable and yields accurate readings, reducing the likelihood of false negatives or positives.
Hair follicle testing in Garlin, KY, offers an extensive detection window, often capturing drug use for up to 90 days. This prolonged period enables employers to assess an individual’s substance history comprehensively, making it an invaluable tool for informed decision-making in hiring and monitoring practices.
In Garlin, KY, hair follicle tests offer a tamper-resistant method of drug testing, significantly reducing the potential for sample adulteration. This robustness ensures that results are consistent and dependable, providing confidence in the integrity of the testing process.
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including Garlin, KY, guarantees convenient access to hair follicle drug testing. The widespread availability of these locations ensures tests can be conducted swiftly and without hassle, maintaining the ease of service for all clients.
Conducting tests in Garlin, KY, is simple and confidential. From ordering to testing and receiving results, the process addresses privacy concerns effectively. This ensures that individuals can engage with the testing process securely and without unnecessary complications, preserving confidentiality.
With competitive pricing structures, our services in Garlin, KY, offer affordability without compromising on speed or quality. Quick turnaround times paired with excellent value provide peace of mind for companies of varying sizes, enabling them to meet their drug testing requirements cost-effectively.
The precision and efficiency of hair follicle drug tests are unmatched, providing fast and accurate results in Garlin, KY. These tests offer a high level of accuracy, ensuring that even minimal substance use can be detected effectively. Employers benefit immensely from the quick turnaround while maintaining precision.
Employers in Garlin, KY, can achieve compliance and peace of mind through hair follicle testing. This method supports adherence to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks and promoting a safe and secure working environment. It stands as a cornerstone of sound employment practices.
