Accredited Drug Testing offers comprehensive hair follicle drug testing services in Cottleville, Missouri. Whether you require a hair drug or alcohol test, our expertise spans across hair testing, with numerous testing centers available nationwide, including all cities where a hair test can be conducted. Generally, a minimum of 1.5 to 2 inches of hair on the head or body is needed. Hair tests can be assessed for drugs, alcohol/ETG, or other tailored options.
Over the years, hair follicle drug tests have become increasingly incorporated into drug testing processes. Many employers, judicial entities, and Substance Abuse professionals now prefer hair drug tests over standard urine tests. Employers enforcing strict drug-free policies, courts, and probation requires utilize hair follicle tests. The main advantage includes an extended detection period lasting up to 90 days, through observed collection, which is almost impossible to manipulate. Yet, for detecting recent drug use within 5 days, urine tests remain the most precise.
* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center. You must bring a valid government issued ID along with the registration/barcode number which was sent to you by email.
When you're searching for hair drug testing near me or hair drug testing locations, we provide a simple and convenient process to find a drug and alcohol testing location near you that is certified to provide all of your drug and alcohol testing needs.
Recognized as a potent means for detecting substance and alcohol consumption, hair analysis serves as a significant tool. Hair retains a comprehensive long-term record of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the fibers as the hair strand grows. When hair is collected closely to the scalp, it can offer around a three-month detection range for both alcohol and drugs. This method is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
For optimal screening and confirmation, a 1.5-inch segment comprising approximately 200 hair strands (akin to the size of a #2 pencil) adjacent to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the ideal sample. For EtG, additional tests, and/or analyses exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is suggested. It's advisable to use a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. Reference to head hair specifically means scalp hair, while body hair refers to other hair categories (like facial and axillary).
Process Summary
The processing of drug test outcomes in the laboratory involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the first phase where a sample is introduced into a lab’s system. This phase covers verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing extra data entry that isn’t included by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid test to check for drug abuse substances. Although screening is cost-efficient for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for court admissibility. Any samples that are positive during Screening require subsequent confirmation.
In cases of presumptive positive results from Screening, additional hair is extracted from the sample for the Extraction stage. This stage involves isolating drugs from hair at minimal concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complex nature of hair drug screening.
The Confirmation of any positive findings from screening is performed using techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing as required. The full laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under the guidance of the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of Hair Drug Testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Even though commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Cottleville, MO
In the comparison between hair and urine drug tests, hair testing stands out for its superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which may only detect recent drug use, hair follicle tests provide an extensive view of an individual's drug history. This capability makes hair testing a more effective method for employers and authorities seeking in-depth insights into substance use, ensuring more reliable results overall.
Extended Detection Window in Cottleville, MO
One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window, which spans up to 90 days. This period allows employers to obtain a comprehensive view of an applicant's or employee's substance use history. By identifying drugs that may have been consumed months prior, this testing method helps maintain a workplace free from drug use and promotes informed decision-making based on extensive data.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Cottleville, MO
The hair follicle testing method offers a significant advantage due to its tamper-resistant nature. Unlike other testing methods, hair samples are incredibly challenging to adulterate, making it nearly impossible to manipulate the results. This integrity ensures that employers receive consistent, reliable, and unquestionable insights into drug usage, enhancing overall trust in the testing outcomes and supporting policy enforcement efforts.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Cottleville, MO
With a network of nationwide testing centers and local options in Cottleville, MO, accessing drug testing services has never been easier. Whether you're seeking quick or comprehensive testing solutions, our facilities are designed for speed and convenience. This expansive reach ensures hassle-free access, reducing wait times and enhancing the overall testing experience for both individuals and organizations alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Cottleville, MO
The simple, confidential process of ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results ensures privacy and ease of use. Individuals can rest assured that their sensitive information remains protected throughout the testing procedure. Our straightforward approach addresses potential concerns, making the entire experience comfortable and user-friendly, which is ideal for preserving confidentiality and ensuring seamless operations.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Cottleville, MO
Our competitive pricing structures and fast turnaround times offer excellent value and peace of mind for companies, regardless of size. By providing cost-effective solutions and quick results, we help businesses maintain budgetary constraints while ensuring thorough drug testing standards. This combination of affordability and efficiency enables organizations to ensure compliance without incurring excessive expenses.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Cottleville, MO
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their swift, precise, and trustworthy results, making them an excellent choice for detecting substance use. Their high level of accuracy ensures that employers and individuals obtain reliable data quickly, enhancing confidence in the testing process. These tests are specially designed to detect even faint traces of drugs effectively, setting a new standard in rapid and accurate testing.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Cottleville, MO
Employers can achieve compliance with drug-free workplace policies through hair follicle testing, reducing legal risks and promoting a safe and secure work environment. By opting for hair testing, organizations can strengthen their stance on drug prevention, assure stakeholders of their commitment to safety, and enhance operational efficiency by minimizing drug-related incidents, leading to overall peace of mind.