Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective means for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of alcohol and drug intake by embedding biomarkers in its growing strands. When cut close to the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to roughly three months for alcohol and other substances. It is easy to gather, relatively tough to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG add-ons or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair is unavailable, a similar quantity of body hair might be collected. When we refer to head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary process of integrating a sample into a lab’s system. This process involves confirming that the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, allotting a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any further data entry that wasn’t covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening initiates a quick preliminary assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening is cost-efficient for eliminating drug usage for most samples, a positive screening needs verification to be court-admissible. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening require another confirmation.
Should a sample be presumptively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction preparation. During this phase, drugs are retrieved from hair at a much-reduced concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is the most challenging method to perform.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methodologies. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed prior to confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation of ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the procedure actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Avoca, TX
Compared to traditional urine testing, hair follicle tests offer superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests detect drug use over an extended period, which provides a more comprehensive picture. This makes them a preferred choice for employers, as they offer a more thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Avoca, TX
Hair follicle testing provides a significant advantage with its extended detection window. It can reveal drug use dating back up to 90 days. This long period gives employers a more comprehensive view of an applicant or employee's substance history, making it an invaluable tool in maintaining a safe and drug-free workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Avoca, TX
Hair follicle tests are known for their ability to significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration. Unlike other methods, they provide results that are both reliable and unquestionable. This makes them a trusted option for employers looking to ensure the integrity of their drug testing programs.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Avoca, TX
With a network of nationwide testing centers, obtaining hair follicle tests is straightforward and hassle-free. This convenience means employers and individuals can access testing services quickly and easily, ensuring timely and effective drug screening anywhere, including local options in Avoca, TX.
Simple, Confidential Process in Avoca, TX
The process for ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is simple and confidential. This helps address privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use. The straightforward nature of this process makes it a practical choice for those needing reliable drug testing without compromising personal privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Avoca, TX
We offer competitive pricing structures along with quick turnaround times, providing excellent value for companies of all sizes. Our affordable options do not compromise on quality, ensuring reliable results swiftly, which is crucial for maintaining business operations smoothly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Avoca, TX
Hair follicle drug testing stands out for its precision and speed in detection. These tests provide high accuracy in identifying substance use, ensuring rapid results that are crucial for making informed decisions. The confidence in the dependability of these tests allows for swift action, helping maintain a drug-free environment in workplaces.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Avoca, TX
Using hair follicle testing helps employers comply with drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal risks and enhancing workplace safety. This method offers peace of mind by ensuring that the testing process is thorough and effective, supporting a stable and secure work environment.
