Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers as the hair grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer an approximately 3-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising around 200 hair strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil thickness) close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels above 10, a 150mg specimen is suggested. It's advisable to assess the specimen's weight with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically means scalp hair only. "Body hair" includes other hair types such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The processing of a drug test outcome in a lab consists of four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves integrating a sample into a laboratory’s system. This step checks that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data entry absent from an electronic custody system.
Screening conducts an expedited preliminary examination for drugs. While Screening is an economical method to negate drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for court admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening undergo secondary confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptively positive result, extra hair is removed from the original sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are retrieved from hair at a lower concentration compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening the most challenging to perform.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating presumptive positivity are washed as necessary before confirmation. The lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is validated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Carlton, TX
Hair follicle testing offers several benefits over traditional urine tests. Carlton, TX relies on this method for its superior detection accuracy, which uncovers long-term drug use patterns. The reliability of hair testing provides employers with a more comprehensive assessment, ensuring drug-free work environments with its credible detection.
Extended Detection Window in Carlton, TX
With the capability to detect drug use up to 90 days prior, hair follicle testing in Carlton, TX, offers an extensive observation period. This gives employers keen insights into an individual's substance habits, surpassing the short-term scope of urine tests. Employers can make informed decisions, ensuring their environment remains drug-free.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Carlton, TX
Hair follicle testing minimizes the potential for sample tampering, offering reliable results. This robust testing approach in Carlton, TX ensures that attempts to adulterate results are significantly reduced, securing the integrity of the testing process. Employers can trust the results, knowing they are accurate and unmanipulated.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Carlton, TX
Our network of nationwide testing centers, including those in Carlton, TX, offers convenient and accessible services. Individuals seeking hair follicle tests can expect a quick and hassle-free experience, with local facilities readily available to conduct precise exams, making drug testing straightforward and efficient.
Simple, Confidential Process in Carlton, TX
The hair follicle testing process is straightforward and ensures confidentiality for individuals in Carlton, TX. From ordering a test to receiving results, every step prioritizes user privacy. This streamlined procedure alleviates concerns, offering an easy and private approach to drug testing without compromising accuracy or security.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Carlton, TX
We provide competitive pricing and quick turnaround times for hair follicle testing in Carlton, TX. Businesses of all sizes can benefit from cost-effective services that do not compromise on quality. Rapid result delivery ensures informed decisions, with affordability making frequent assessments viable for maintaining safety.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Carlton, TX
Hair follicle drug tests offer an unmatched level of precision and reliability in Carlton, TX. Their rapid processing ensures that individuals and organizations receive results swiftly. The accuracy in detecting substance use through hair samples outshines other methods, providing peace of mind through consistent, dependable testing outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Carlton, TX
Employers in Carlton, TX promote compliance and reduce legal risks by integrating hair follicle testing into their policies. This method ensures the enforcement of a drug-free workplace, enhancing safety and minimizing liabilities. Employers achieve peace of mind, knowing their workforce meets compliance standards effectively.
