Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair stores a prolonged record of such substances by embedding biomarkers within the growing hair fibers. When sampled near the scalp, it can offer a detection range of up to three months for various substances. The collection of hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair segment comprising around 200 hairs (resembling the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, deemed the optimum amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analysis, and/or examinations beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We advocate using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample. Should head hair be unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair can be gathered. In reference to head hair, it signifies scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The core procedures in the lab processing of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial reception of a sample into the lab's protocol. This phase involves ensuring the sample is sealed and transported correctly, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input not available from an electronic custody chain system.
Screening constitutes an initial rapid assessment for substance misuse. Although Screening efficiently dismisses drug presence in most samples, a positive outcome mandates confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening must undergo a subsequent validation.
In instances of presumptive positivity during Screening, an additional hair quantity is retrieved from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. Here, substances are isolated from the hair at substantially lower concentrations compared to other methods (ex. urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening a highly challenging technique to execute.
Positive Screening results are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are cleansed prior to necessary confirmation. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the actual test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle below the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in East Gaffney, SC
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior detection capabilities. With a detection window that far exceeds urine tests, hair samples provide a more reliable and accurate reflection of an individual's substance use history. This makes hair tests an ideal choice for employers seeking adherence to drug-free workplace policies.
Extended Detection Window in East Gaffney, SC
Hair follicle tests provide a significant advantage with their extended detection window reaching up to 90 days. This timeframe allows employers to gain valuable insights into an individual's long-term substance use patterns, facilitating more informed hiring and employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in East Gaffney, SC
The hair follicle drug testing method is highly resistant to tampering, ensuring the integrity and reliability of the results. This testing approach significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration, providing stakeholders with unquestionable evidence of substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in East Gaffney, SC
With a network of testing centers across the nation, including East Gaffney, our facilities offer easy access to drug testing services. This expansive reach ensures that sites are conveniently accessible for rapid and hassle-free testing experiences.
Simple, Confidential Process in East Gaffney, SC
Our drug testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering to result reception, every step is managed with privacy and ease, ensuring participants' comfort and security throughout the procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in East Gaffney, SC
We offer competitive pricing alongside quick turnaround times, delivering excellent value for businesses of all sizes. Our efficient processes ensure prompt results, allowing companies to make timely employment decisions with confidence.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in East Gaffney, SC
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and rapid results. These tests identify substance use with remarkable accuracy, providing stakeholders with confidence in their findings. The advanced detection technology enables quick processing without compromising the reliability of the results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in East Gaffney, SC
Adopting hair follicle testing helps employers maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies, thereby reducing legal liabilities and enhancing overall workplace safety. Hair tests foster a secure and compliant environment, providing peace of mind to employers.
