Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has become recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug biomarkers within the fibers of the hair shaft as it grows. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use history with an approximate 3-month detection period. Hair is easy to collect, moderately resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment from about 200 hair strands (roughly comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness) positioned nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal quantity for testing and validation. For EtG, additional screenings, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. It's best to measure the specimen on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair can be gathered. In reference to head hair, we mean only scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in processing a laboratory drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial intake of a sample into a lab's system. This step confirms the sample was adequately sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs an initial rapid test for drugs of abuse. Although screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use in most samples, any positive screenings need further confirmation for court admissibility. Every sample that shows presumptive positivity in Screening requires follow-up confirmation.
Once a sample shows presumptive positivity during the Screening phase, extra hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. This process isolates drugs from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of conducting hair drug screenings.
Confirmation of any positive screening result occurs through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity undergo washing before confirmation when necessary. The full lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is assessed according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often termed as "hair follicle tests," the actual test examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Abbeville, SC
While urine tests have been a standard, hair follicle testing offers an elevated level of detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine samples that might only show recent drug use, hair tests have a much broader detection window, significantly up to 90 days.
This extensive window provides a more comprehensive analysis of an individual’s drug history. Employers in Abbeville especially benefit from these merits, gaining a more accurate understanding of past substance use and reinforcing their commitment to a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Abbeville, SC
Hair follicle tests provide an unparalleled advantage with their extended detection window, monitoring drug use for up to 90 days. This allows organizations to gain a holistic view of a candidate or employee's substance history.
With such a detailed look into an individual’s habits, businesses in Abbeville can confidently assess potential risks, ensuring they maintain a committed, sober workforce. This longer detection window distinctly sets hair testing apart from basic urine analyses.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Abbeville, SC
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their resistance to tampering. Unlike urine tests, which can be more prone to adulteration, hair tests provide results that are trustworthy and undeniable.
By reducing the risk of sample manipulation, hair tests offer definitive results. Employers in Abbeville can trust the outcomes they receive, knowing that the potential for cheating is practically eliminated through this secure method.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local in Abbeville, SC
The accessibility of Accredited Drug Testing locations nationwide ensures that testing is swift and hassle-free. With centers available in Abbeville, getting tested has never been more convenient.
Employers and individuals alike can benefit from the ease of our offerings. This widespread network ensures that everyone can readily access the services they need without unnecessary obstacles.
Simple, Confidential Process in Abbeville, SC
The process of ordering, taking, and receiving results from a hair follicle test is straightforward and discreet. Accredited Drug Testing ensures confidentiality throughout the entire procedure.
This streamlined system provides assurance to participants that their privacy is preserved. The simplicity of our process enables anyone in Abbeville to undergo testing easily and securely.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Abbeville, SC
Competitively priced, hair follicle testing at Accredited Drug Testing offers value without compromising service quality. We ensure fast turnaround times so businesses of all sizes can benefit from efficient testing without breaking the bank.
Our economical structure in Abbeville guarantees companies can maintain safety standards affordably. Rapid results mean less downtime, allowing for smooth, uninterrupted operations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Abbeville, SC
Hair follicle drug tests stand out due to their impressive speed and precision. These tests swiftly and accurately pinpoint substance use, making them a reliable choice for many organizations. The efficiency of hair testing ensures employers in Abbeville can make informed decisions swiftly.
With the cutting-edge technology embedded in hair follicle tests, results are not only quick but highly dependable. The method's accuracy helps maintain a clear and precise record of substance use, diminishing any potential uncertainties inherent in traditional tests.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Abbeville, SC
Utilizing hair follicle testing assures that businesses comply with drug-free workplace mandates. By choosing this reliable testing method, companies reduce legal threats and ensure heightened workplace safety.
The peace of mind that comes with abiding by these guidelines helps employers in Abbeville foster a safer, more productive environment. The balance between compliance and security makes hair tests a crucial tool for contemporary businesses.
