Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method to identify drug and alcohol usage. Hair contains markers of alcohol and drugs over an extended timeline by embedding these indicators within its developing fibers. When obtained near the scalp, hair is capable of providing a detection frame approximating up to 3 months for both alcohol and drugs. It is straightforward to collect hair, relatively challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section containing about 200 hair strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the prime sample size for tests and verifications. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen amount of 150mg is advised. It's beneficial to measure the specimen using a jeweler's scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, collect an equivalent amount of body hair. When referring to head hair, this implies solely the scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four pivotal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the process of initially integrating a sample into a laboratory's system. This process involves validating that the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input that is not available via an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of a preliminary swift evaluation for abusive substances. Screening is a budget-friendly method to exclude drug consumption in most samples, though any positive screen must be confirmed for it to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples showing presumptive positive results in Screening need an additional confirmation.
If a sample exhibits a presumptive positive outcome during the Screening phase, extra hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drug extraction from hair occurs at lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), illustrating why hair drug screening is the most complex method to undertake.
Testing confirmation of any positive screening result employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methodologies. All samples showing presumptive positives undergo a washing procedure as necessary before confirmation. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is often used, but the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing often outperforms traditional urine tests in Taft, LA. The detection accuracy provided by hair tests proves superior as it captures a longer history of substance use.
Compared to urine tests, hair follicle tests offer an excellent reliability track record, reducing the risk of erroneous results that can emerge from other testing methods.
Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection window in Taft, LA, enabling identification of drug use spanning up to 90 days. This long-term view is critical for employers in evaluating an applicant or employee's substance use patterns comprehensively.
Such an extended detection period equips businesses with the insights necessary to assess even previous substance use behavior that may not be visible with other testing techniques.
In Taft, LA, hair follicle tests are highly resistant to tampering, in stark contrast to some other testing methods. The sample collection process is observed, ensuring authenticity and reliability of the results.
Due to the stringent procedures involved in hair sampling, it's nearly impossible for individuals to alter or adulterate the sample, ensuring the integrity of the test results.
Our nationwide network of testing centers, including those in Taft, LA, provides unmatched convenience. With numerous locations available, individuals and companies can easily access testing services.
Whether local or elsewhere, our centers offer a straightforward approach to testing, ensuring everyone can undergo the process without hassle.
In Taft, LA, the process for hair follicle testing is designed to be simple and confidential, catering to privacy concerns and a straightforward user experience.
From order placement, sample collection, to receiving results, the procedure prioritizes ease and confidentiality, ensuring a worry-free experience for all parties involved.
Taft, LA, enjoys competitive pricing for hair follicle testing that ensures affordability without compromising on quality or efficiency. We offer excellent value for companies regardless of their size.
Quick turnaround times accompany our pricing structure, providing businesses with the swift results needed to maintain their operational pace and decision-making processes.
The precision of hair follicle drug tests is unparalleled in Taft, LA. These tests deliver swift and highly accurate results that are essential for detecting any substance use with certainty. By analyzing hair samples, these tests provide a clear and precise picture of substance use.
The speed at which hair follicle tests yield results is another factor that makes them highly appealing. In combination with their accuracy, they serve as a reliable tool for employers and agencies to make informed decisions swiftly.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Taft, LA, gives employers confidence by ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies effectively. This method helps mitigate legal risks associated with non-compliance.
Employers benefit from peace of mind knowing their work environment is safer, thanks to the rigorous testing protocols that are part of hair follicle drug testing.
