Complete hair follicle drug assessment is provided by Accredited Drug Testing in Early Branch, SC. Our expertise lies in hair drug and alcohol testing, with centers across the nation ready to cater to your needs. Typically, 1.5 to 2 inches of head or body hair is necessary for analysis for drugs, alcohol/ETG, or other specific options.
Recent trends have shown a shift towards hair follicle tests for drug assessment. More employers, legal entities, and substance abuse professionals are moving away from urine tests to adopt this method. This type of testing is favored by employers enforcing stringent no-drug policies, courts, and those under probation. Its main advantage is a longer detection window, covering up to 90 days, ensuring observed collection with minimal risk of manipulation. Nonetheless, urine tests are preferred for drug detection within the last 5 days due to higher accuracy.
* 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.
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands offer a comprehensive record of drug and alcohol use over time, as they encapsulate biomarkers within the fibers during hair growth. When collected near the scalp, hair can indicate drug and alcohol usage up to a roughly three-month period. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transportation.
An optimal hair sample consists of 1.5 inches of approximately 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil), yielding 100mg, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional substances, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. It's recommended to measure this using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, equivalent body hair is acceptable. When referred to as head hair, it signifies hair from the scalp exclusively, while body hair encompasses all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the sample's initial integration into a laboratory's system. This stage ensures proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry that an electronic chain of custody may not have covered.
Screening is a preliminary, rapid test for drug abuse detection. While cost-effective for ruling out drug usage in most samples, positive results in Screening require confirmation for legal acceptability. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate secondary verification.
For samples testing positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is sourced from the initial sample for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are extracted at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening complex.
Confirmation of positive results from Screening is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo necessary washing. The comprehensive laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", this test actually evaluates the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Early Branch, SC
In contrast to traditional urine tests, hair follicle exams offer a more comprehensive detection range, assessing substance use over extended periods. This method is heralded for its superior reliability, significantly reducing errors and false negatives. Such precision ensures that the accurate lifestyle and substance use history is recorded, setting a standard preference among discerning employers and judicial entities.
Extended Detection Window in Early Branch, SC
One of the key advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to reveal traces of drug use from up to 90 days in the past. This comprehensive window provides employers with crucial details about an individual’s long-term habits, helping them make informed decisions. For organizations prioritizing thorough vetting processes, such long-range detection offers immense value.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Early Branch, SC
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its robust resistance to tampering, ensuring authenticity and reliability in results. Unlike other tests, this method is nearly impossible to alter, instilling nearly fail-safe confidence in drug detection outcomes. As the go-to solution for reducing sample manipulation, it establishes a secure standard for employers and guidelines.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Early Branch, SC
Catering to widespread needs, our testing centers are strategically located nationwide, including local sites in Early Branch. This extensive network guarantees easy and swift access, ensuring that testing procedures are stress-free and accessible. With this convenience, satisfying testing requirements becomes a seamless experience for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Early Branch, SC
Our straightforward, confidential process eases concerns related to ordering and receiving hair follicle test results. The understated steps promote an unobtrusive experience, safeguarding privacy at every stage. With secure handling and comfort in mind, individuals can approach testing with assurance, knowing that their information is respected and protected.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Early Branch, SC
Our pricing strategies remain competitive, promising affordability alongside speed, ensuring exceptional value. Companies of all scales benefit from our swift service delivery, providing necessary results promptly without burdening financial plans. The promptness and cost-effectiveness of our solutions exemplify our dedication to serving client needs efficiently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Early Branch, SC
Hair follicle drug tests deliver quick and consistent results, boasting a high degree of precision in substance detection. With this method, any trace of drug use is captured with remarkable accuracy, ensuring employers and authorities can act confidently on the outcomes. Efficient and reliable, these tests serve as a critical tool in maintaining safe and drug-free environments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Early Branch, SC
Employers looking to maintain a drug-free workplace find assurance in hair follicle tests, aligning with policy stipulations and minimizing legal liabilities. By opting for this compliant testing measure, organizations bolster safety standards and ensure a harmonious working environment—presenting an irrefutable commitment to upholding a sober and efficient workplace.
