Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as a powerful method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a long-term record of alcohol and other substances by locking biomarkers in the strands of hair as it grows. When sampled close to the scalp, hair can offer up to a 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair specimen of around 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for analysis and validation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or tests over 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We advise using a jeweler’s scale for accuracy. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. By head hair, we mean scalp hair specifically, and by body hair, we mean all other hair, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The drug test result processing in a lab is comprised of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is about initiating a sample into a lab’s workflow. This entails verifying that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any missing data entry not captured by an electronic custody system.
Screening performs an initial drug abuse check. It is an economical way to eliminate drug usage on most samples, but a positive result in Screening requires confirmation to be valid in court. Any presumptively positive samples during Screening require further verification.
Should a presumptive positive occur in Screening, more hair is extracted from the sample for Analysis. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than other methods, such as urine or oral fluids, which is why hair drug testing presents the most challenging methodology.
Verification of any positive Screening result is performed with techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptive positives are cleaned prior to verification as necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review following the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the test analyzes the strand of hair, not the root within the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bullard, TX
In comparing hair follicle and urine testing methods, the superiority of hair testing is evident. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair follicle tests offer a longer detection window and enhanced accuracy and reliability. In Bullard, TX, this means detecting substance use over an extended period, providing a more comprehensive insight into an individual's drug history.
Extended Detection Window in Bullard, TX
Hair follicle testing stands out due to its extensive detection period, often up to 90 days. For employers in Bullard, TX, this means a more thorough overview of an applicant or employee's substance habits. This long detection span surpasses that of traditional urine tests, ensuring informed hiring and retention decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bullard, TX
Hair follicle tests are a superior choice for minimizing the risk of sample tampering or adulteration. This testing method ensures the integrity of the results, providing reliable and unquestionable outcomes. Employers in Bullard, TX, can rely on the authenticity of these results for critical decision-making processes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bullard, TX
Our expansive network of testing centers spans nationwide, including local outlets in Bullard, TX. This widespread availability promises convenience, ensuring that individuals and businesses have quick and hassle-free access to essential testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bullard, TX
Ordering, conducting, and retrieving results from hair follicle tests is a straightforward and confidential process in Bullard, TX. Our procedures ensure that privacy concerns are addressed while maintaining ease of use, providing a seamless experience for all participants.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bullard, TX
Our competitive pricing and prompt turnaround times make hair follicle testing an excellent value in Bullard, TX. We cater to companies of all sizes, ensuring that cost-effective solutions do not compromise on speed or accuracy, bringing peace of mind to employers.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bullard, TX
When it comes to precision and speed, hair follicle drug tests stand out. With near-immediate results, they provide unparalleled accuracy in identifying substance use. Turnaround times are expedient, ensuring that employers in Bullard, TX, can make informed decisions swiftly, reinforcing workplace safety and maintaining productivity.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bullard, TX
For employers focusing on maintaining a drug-free workplace, hair follicle testing is the perfect tool. It not only aids in complying with workplace policies but also minimizes legal risks. This empowers employers in Bullard, TX, with the confidence to maintain workplace safety and ensure compliance.
