Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair encapsulates a long-term record of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When obtained near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to around 3 months for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is simple, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches comprising approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, considered the ideal amount for assessment and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or more than 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. We suggest weighing the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unobtainable, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it refers exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage of integrating a sample into a laboratory system. This step includes confirming that the sample was securely sealed and transported correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. While Screening offers a cost-efficient means to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Samples with a presumptive positive result during Screening necessitate secondary validation.
If a positive result is suggested during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, substances are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most challenging method to undertake.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are washed before confirmation as needed. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Marks, MS
Hair follicle testing exceeds traditional urine tests in both sensitivity and reliability. The longer detection window allows for a more comprehensive view of an individual's drug history, while the test's accuracy solidifies its superiority. In Marks, MS, this method helps maintain higher standards of workplace safety and compliance.
Extended Detection Window in Marks, MS
With a detection capacity reaching up to 90 days, hair follicle testing provides a broad retrospective view of drug use. This means employers can gain an inclusive perspective on an employee's substance history, surpassing the temporal limitations of other testing techniques. In Marks, MS, this extensive window supports informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Marks, MS
One major advantage of hair follicle tests is their resistance to tampering and adulteration, making the results profoundly reliable and genuine. The observed collection process enhances the integrity of the sample, preventing manipulations that compromise traditional testing methods.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Marks, MS
With testing centers nationwide, Accredited Drug Testing offers quick and easy access to services, including those in Marks, MS. The vast network ensures convenience and swift service, allowing individuals seamless access to crucial testing when needed.
Simple, Confidential Process in Marks, MS
The process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and private, ensuring both ease of use and confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, the approach maintains a no-hassle experience for users, addressing concerns surrounding privacy and simplicity effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Marks, MS
Competitive pricing paired with swift turnaround times ensures excellent value for companies. In Marks, businesses can benefit from cost-effective and timely service, providing both economic efficiency and rapid results, enhancing overall employer satisfaction.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Marks, MS
Hair follicle drug testing is renowned for its speed and precision in unveiling substance use. The method offers highly accurate results, enabling employers to make informed decisions. In Marks, hair testing provides a trustworthy resource for rapid and reliable results, safeguarding workplace environments effectively.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Marks, MS
Hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug-free policies, mitigating legal liabilities. Employers in Marks gain peace of mind, knowing their compliance protocols are enforced robustly, enhancing workplace safety and reducing potential legal repercussions.
