Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers in the hair fibers, hair provides an extensive timeline of drug and alcohol use. Samples collected near the scalp can reveal drug use and alcohol consumption up to roughly 3 months. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of about 200 hair strands (approximately equivalent to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, the preferred sample size for testing. For EtG and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. It’s advisable to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be utilized. The term "head hair" specifically indicates scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses other hair types (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing process consists of four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially logged into the lab's system. This step verifies that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any needed data entry if not using an electronic chain of custody.
Screening performs a preliminary assessment for drug presence. Although cost-effective, positive results from Screening must be verified for legal admissibility. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening require further confirmation.
If Screening indicates a positive result, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. Drugs are then extracted at a lower concentration from hair compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair testing a complex procedure.
Measurements detected during Screening are validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with any presumptive positive results undergo pre-confirmation washing as necessary. The full lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not on the scalp's hair follicle.
Hair follicle testing offers significant advantages over traditional urine tests in Cherokee Falls, SC. The hair-based method excels in detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which provide a shorter detection span, hair tests offer an unmatched ability to identify drug use over an extended period. This makes hair follicle testing the preferred option for ensuring comprehensive evaluation and safety in various settings.
Employers in Cherokee Falls, SC greatly benefit from hair follicle testing due to its extended detection window. Capable of unveiling drug use tracing back up to 90 days, these tests offer an expansive look into an individual's substance history. This comprehensive overview allows for informed decision-making concerning hiring or continued employment, ensuring a thorough assessment of an applicant or employee's background.
In Cherokee Falls, SC, hair follicle testing stands out as an exceptionally tamper-resistant method. The nature of hair tests significantly reduces opportunities for sample adulteration, providing results that are both reliable and beyond doubt. This robust testing approach ensures that employers receive legitimate findings, promoting trust and integrity in drug testing procedures.
Our extensive network of testing centers throughout Cherokee Falls, SC, and nationwide ensures unparalleled convenience. Accessible and hassle-free, our locations support quick and straightforward drug testing procedures. This ease of access guarantees that individuals and employers can effortlessly engage with our services, enhancing the overall testing experience through nationwide and local reach.
In Cherokee Falls, SC, the process for hair follicle testing is designed to be both simple and confidential. Ordering, taking the test, and receiving results involves streamlined steps, prioritizing privacy and ease of use. By addressing any concerns regarding confidentiality, our process assures clients that their data and results are handled discreetly and efficiently.
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround outcomes in Cherokee Falls, SC, make hair follicle testing a valuable choice for businesses. By combining affordability with swift results, we provide excellent value to companies of varying sizes. This commitment to cost-effectiveness and prompt service instills confidence, creating an attractive offer for those seeking reliable drug testing.
In Cherokee Falls, SC, hair follicle drug tests are synonymous with fast and accurate detection. The precision of these tests is unmatched, offering a reliable approach to identifying substance use. With their thorough processing and ability to deliver answers swiftly, hair follicle tests ensure that results are both quick and trustworthy, catering to the demands of employers seeking efficient testing solutions.
Adopting hair follicle testing in Cherokee Falls, SC offers employers compliance with drug-free policies and confidence in maintaining safe workplaces. These tests mitigate legal risks by reliably detecting substance use, thereby upholding workplace standards. With tamper-proof methods, hair follicle tests provide the peace of mind needed to foster a secure and compliant work environment.
