Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Balch Springs, TX

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged record of alcohol and drug intake by embedding biomarkers within the growing hair strand's fibers. When cut near the scalp, hair can reveal up to an approximately 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.

A 1.5-inch fragment of roughly 200 strands of hair (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for analysis and verification. For EtG, supplemental tests, and/or assessments beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It's recommended to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. Head hair refers solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types, including facial and axillary hair.

Process Overview

The primary stages in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning introduces the sample into the laboratory system. This process confirms proper sealing and shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data entry that an electronic chain of custody system doesn’t provide.

Screening conducts a preliminary swift examination for substances of abuse. Even though Screening is an affordable method to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result must be verified for legal admissibility. Samples that are tentatively positive during Screening require a follow-up verification.

If Screening results are tentatively positive, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at a dosage much lower than found with other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.

The Confirmation of positive screening results is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All tentatively positive samples are washed before confirmation as necessary. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is supervised under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Prolonged detection period: Hair drug testing can identify drug use for as long as 90 days, while urine tests have shorter windows.
• Harder to deceive: Cheating a hair drug test is challenging, resulting in more reliable outcomes.
• Offers historical context: It reveals a timeline of drug use, not just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent usage: Drugs require approximately 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally cost more than other drug testing alternatives.
• Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual hair growth can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is frequently used, but the test analyzes the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Balch Springs, TX

• Hair testing offers superior detection periods compared to urine.
• More accurate and reliable for long-term substance tracking.
• Detects a broader range of substances utilized over time.
• Employers trust its accuracy for zero-tolerance policies.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Balch Springs, TX

• Offers a 90-day detection window unlike other methods.
• Helps employers comprehend an individual's substance history.
• Enables comprehensive overview of an employee's behavior.
• Facilitates informed recruitment and retention decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Balch Springs, TX

• Significantly reduces the risk of sample tampering.
• Ensures reliable and unquestionable test results for employers.
• Complicates attempts to alter sample integrity.
• Promotes a trustworthy drug testing process.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Balch Springs, TX

• Effortless access to testing services nationwide.
• Local centers offer ease and convenience.
• Quick testing ensures minimal disruption to the schedule.
• Accessible and hassle-free appointments are available.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Balch Springs, TX

• Streamlined order and result receipt process.
• Emphasizes privacy and confidentiality for users.
• Ensures ease and simplicity throughout the testing process.
• Builds trust and confidence in the testing service.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Balch Springs, TX

• Competitive pricing for businesses of all sizes.
• Fast results turnaround ensuring swift action.
• Superior value for broad client demographics.
• Supports businesses in cost-effective drug testing initiatives.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Balch Springs, TX

• Hair follicle drug testing provides swift and precise results.
• High accuracy ensures accurate detection of substance use.
• Employers can rely on consistent data, enhancing decision-making.
• Reliable outcomes contribute to maintaining a safe work environment.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Balch Springs, TX

• Ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies.
• Reduces legal risks linked to drug use at work.
• Enhances workplace safety and security.
• Offers peace of mind regarding compliance.

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