Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended account of alcohol and drug use by encapsulating biomarkers within the shafts of the developing hair strand. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer up to a three-month period to detect alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's diameter) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests and/or panels exceeding 10 require 150mg of the sample. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample. If head hair is not available, an equivalent portion of body hair may be used. When discussing head hair, we strictly refer to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result encompasses four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial incorporation of a sample into the laboratory's system. It entails verifying the sample’s integrity during sealing and shipping, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entries not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening constitutes a preliminary rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is an economical method to discount drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, more hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation of any positive screening is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples testing presumptively positive are washed before confirmation as required. The complete laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although colloquially known as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Benndale, MS
In Benndale, MS, hair follicle testing offers superior detection and reliability compared to urine tests. The extended detection window uncovers drug use far beyond the capabilities of urine tests. This offers substantial benefits for those needing thorough drug use histories, ensuring superior accuracy and credibility.
Extended Detection Window in Benndale, MS
By covering up to 90 days of substance history, hair follicle testing in Benndale, MS, delivers a comprehensive view of an individual's drug use over time. This vast window gives employers a clear picture of long-term substance habits, allowing for informed decisions in the workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Benndale, MS
Hair follicle tests dramatically minimize the chance of sample tampering, ensuring reliable results in Benndale, MS. The robustness of this method provides peace of mind for organizations relying on accurate and indisputable test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Benndale, MS
Our extensive network of testing facilities, including those in Benndale, MS, provides convenient and hassle-free access to our services. This accessibility ensures that testing is not only quick but accessible wherever you are located.
Simple, Confidential Process in Benndale, MS
The hair follicle testing process in Benndale, MS, is both straightforward and private. This simplicity ensures ease from ordering to obtaining results, safeguarding confidentiality every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Benndale, MS
With competitive pricing and rapid results, our services in Benndale, MS, offer exceptional value, ensuring that businesses of all sizes have access to cost-effective and swift testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Benndale, MS
Hair follicle drug tests offer quick and precise detection of substances, making them a trusted choice in Benndale, MS. The accuracy is high, ensuring that results reflect true substance use patterns.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Benndale, MS
Implementing hair follicle testing promotes adherence to workplace drug-free protocols in Benndale, MS. This commitment to compliance minimizes legal threats and reinforces safety, granting employers assurance and peace of mind.