Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair contains a historical record of alcohol and other substances by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. Sampling hair near the scalp can deliver up to roughly a 3-month period of detection for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample of roughly 200 hairs (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We advise measuring the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t present, an equivalent mass of body hair can be gathered. In discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The principal phases in processing a drug test result in a laboratory include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the preliminary handling of a sample within a laboratory’s framework. This process entails verifying that the sample was properly sealed and sent, issuing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not facilitated by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to negate drug usage for most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
When a sample shows presumptive positivity in Screening, additional hair is collected from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies to execute.
Affirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often dubbed "hair follicle tests", the actual test inspects the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Antioch, OK
Hair follicle testing offers a distinct edge over traditional urine testing, particularly in Antioch, OK. Its superior detection window, up to 90 days, reveals substance use histories that urine tests may miss. With enhanced accuracy and reliability, hair testing provides a more comprehensive analysis, reducing fraudulent results and instilling greater confidence in the outcomes.
Extended Detection Window in Antioch, OK
Employers in Antioch, OK benefit from hair follicle tests' extended detection window. By identifying substance use up to 90 days prior, these tests offer an in-depth view into an individual's drug usage, surpassing traditional methods. This extended timeframe grants employers a better understanding of long-term patterns in substance use, bolstering informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Antioch, OK
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration in Antioch, OK. Its rigorous collection process ensures that results are reliable and tamper-proof. Unlike other testing methods vulnerable to manipulation, hair testing offers a steadfast solution, maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness required for definitive substance-use evaluations.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Antioch, OK
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient and widespread locations across the nation, including several strategically placed in Antioch, OK. This network allows for hassle-free, quick access to drug testing services, delivering ease and efficiency for all clients seeking reliable and prompt testing solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Antioch, OK
Our process in Antioch, OK is designed for simplicity and confidentiality. Clients can expect a straightforward process for ordering tests, taking them, and receiving results. Privacy concerns are addressed at every stage, ensuring that customers feel secure and that their information is protected as they navigate the testing procedure smoothly and stress-free.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Antioch, OK
Accredited Drug Testing affirms its competitive pricing and quick turnaround times in Antioch, OK. We provide comprehensive hair follicle drug tests at rates ensuring excellent value for businesses of all sizes. Our efficiency in delivering results promises peace of mind, enabling timely, informed decisions without exceeding budget constraints.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Antioch, OK
Hair follicle tests in Antioch, OK deliver precision and speed, capturing substance use with high reliability. These tests are designed to identify a wide range of substances with remarkable accuracy, ensuring trustworthy results. Their rapid processing time allows for quick decision-making, essential for employers and individuals seeking confident and timely analyses.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Antioch, OK
In Antioch, OK, hair follicle testing aids employers in adhering to drug-free policies, mitigating legal risks. By providing a reliable means to uphold strict workplace standards, testing results ensure safety and compliance. Employers gain confidence and peace of mind, knowing they are offering a safe and compliant workplace environment for their staff.
