Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective resource for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of drug and alcohol use by embedding biomarkers in the fibers of the growing strand. When gathered near the scalp, hair can offer up to around a 3-month detection period for substances. It's straightforward to gather, relatively challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch section comprising roughly 200 hair strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal specimen for screening and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels beyond 10, a sample amount of 150mg is advised. It's suggested to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent volume of body hair can be gathered. When discussing head hair, it specifically means scalp hair only. Body hair includes all other types (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The procedure for lab processing of a drug test result comprises four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the primary processing of a sample into the lab system. This step checks that the sample was properly sealed and sent, randomizes a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any extra data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves an initial swift assessment for drugs of misuse. Though Screening offers a cost-efficient approach to eliminate drug use in most specimens, a positive screen must be validated to stand in court. All samples suspected to be positive during Screening require a secondary confirmation.
If a sample indicates a presumptive positive in the Screening, more hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. Here, drugs are removed from hair at a significantly lower level than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening is a rigorous method.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed with GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptive positive are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly called "hair follicle tests", the actual test examines the strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sun, LA
The hair follicle test is superior to urine tests because it offers greater detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair testing provides a comprehensive assessment of substance use over an extended period, minimizing the risk of false negatives and ensuring the detection of long-term usage.
Extended Detection Window in Sun, LA
Employers in Sun, LA benefit from the wide detection window of hair follicle testing, which captures drug use over up to 90 days. This testing method allows a deeper understanding of an individual's substance history, offering a thorough overview that other tests cannot match.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sun, LA
Hair follicle testing drastically cuts down on the possibility of sample adulteration. Its reliable nature ensures that results are dependable and unquestionable, providing peace of mind when accurate measurements of drug use are necessary.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Sun, LA
Our multitude of testing centers across the nation and locally in Sun, LA ensures accessibility to testing services. Clients appreciate the straightforward and hassle-free access to our facilities, streamlining the process for individuals and businesses alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sun, LA
The procedure for ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests in Sun, LA is both simple and confidential. Individuals can rest assured knowing that their privacy is respected throughout the seamless testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sun, LA
Our competitive pricing and swift result turnaround make hair follicle testing an attractive choice for businesses of various sizes. This affordability paired with quick service brings optimal value and reassurance to all clientele.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sun, LA
Hair follicle drug testing offers a combination of speed and high accuracy appreciated across Sun, LA. These tests not only provide rapid results but also ensure a level of precision in detecting substance use that is unmatched, helping employers and individuals make informed decisions promptly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sun, LA
Hair follicle testing is a key component in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies, greatly reducing legal risks. Employers can enhance workplace safety and mitigate potential liability issues by implementing this reliable testing method.
