Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged substance use history by embedding biomarkers within the strands of developing hair. Sampling near the scalp allows for detecting alcohol and other substances for up to roughly three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and convenient to transport.
A sample size of 1.5 inches from around 200 hairs (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and validation. For EtG evaluations, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, it is advised to use 150mg of the sample. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is suggested. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair can be collected. The term "head hair" is specific to scalp hair only. "Body hair" encompasses all other hair varieties (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processes for a drug test result encompass four essential steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of integrating a sample into a lab’s system, which entails verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data inputs absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary examination for drugs of misuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use from most samples, a confirmation is required for any positive result to be valid in legal scenarios. Any samples with a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate secondary verification.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. This phase involves isolating drugs from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), a reason why hair drug testing is one of the most challenging methods to conduct.
Confirming any positive results from Screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methodology. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The comprehensive laboratory protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests," the assessment is conducted on the hair strand, not on the hair follicle located beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Concord, TN
Hair follicle tests are superior to traditional urine tests due to their extended detection capabilities and more reliable accuracy. Unlike urine tests, which detect recent drug use, hair testing can identify substance presence for up to 90 days. This long-term advantage assists employers in making informed decisions about their workforce's substance history.
Extended Detection Window in Concord, TN
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its ability to detect drug use over an extended time frame, typically up to 90 days. This prolonged detection period offers employers a comprehensive insight into the substance habits of applicants or employees. In Concord, TN, this testing method equips businesses with valuable information for a safer, more informed hiring process.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Concord, TN
Hair follicle tests substantially lower the chance of sample tampering or adulteration, providing irrefutable results. Concord organizations benefit from this reliable testing method, safeguarding test integrity and ensuring that outcomes remain genuine and trustworthy, thereby upholding high testing standards.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Concord, TN
Our network of nationwide testing centers guarantees easy and hassle-free access to testing services. Whether in Concord, TN, or beyond, our widespread availability ensures testing is swift and convenient, catering to diverse needs efficiently and effectively, making drug testing straightforward.
Simple, Confidential Process in Concord, TN
The process for arranging and executing hair follicle testing is designed to be simple and confidential. Clients in Concord, TN, can expect a smooth experience from ordering to receiving results, ensuring privacy and ease of use without compromising accuracy and reliability.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Concord, TN
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times underscore our commitment to providing excellent value. Concord businesses of all sizes can capitalize on our affordable options while receiving timely and accurate results, making our services invaluable for comprehensive substance testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Concord, TN
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision, rapidly identifying substance use with high accuracy. This speed and reliability make them the preferred option for comprehensive drug testing. Concord's workforce benefits from the swift and precise feedback these tests provide, ensuring a clear substance history examination for employers.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Concord, TN
Employing hair follicle testing verifies adherence to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks while enhancing safety. Concord businesses utilizing this method ensure compliance and foster a secure work environment, giving employers peace of mind and reinforcing their professional integrity.
