Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Columbus, TX

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is now recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of substance use by encapsulating biomarkers within the hair fiber. When cut close to the scalp, hair can reveal substance use insights for up to an estimated 90-day period. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches from about 200 hairs (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg—the optimal amount for initial testing and confirmation. For EtG, additional evaluations, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It's best to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, a comparable volume of body hair might be gathered. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial or axillary hair).

Process Overview

The laboratory process for a drug test result encompasses four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the laboratory’s system. This crucial phase involves confirming the sample's secure sealing and proper shipment, issuing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and entering any additional data not added by an electronic chain of custody.

Screening is a preliminary evaluation for drugs of abuse. As a budget-conscious method to identify non-use in the majority of samples, a positive screen still requires confirmation for court validity. Samples indicating a presumptive positive in Screening need further confirmation.

If the Screening stage suggests a presumptive positive result, additional hair is extracted from the provided sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are removed from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to methods like urine or oral fluid, highlighting the difficulty of performing hair drug screening.

Verification of any positive screening result is executed via techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples preliminarily positive are cleansed prior to confirmation as deemed necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can discover drug use spanning up to 90 days, offering a longer window than urine tests.
• Cheating is difficult: The accuracy of hair drug tests is high due to the challenge in cheating.
• Offers historical consumption patterns: It provides data on drug use trends over time, beyond merely recent usage.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: Drugs become detectable in hair approximately 5-7 days after use.
• Expense: Hair drug tests typically incur higher costs than alternative testing methods.
• Result variability: Hair color and individual hair growth differences can impact drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Though often labeled as "hair follicle tests," the test analyzes the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When comparing drug testing options in Columbus, TX, hair follicle tests offer superiority over traditional urine tests. Their remarkable detection accuracy and robustness make them the preferred choice. Employers appreciate their effective identification of substance use, ensuring adherence to stringent drug-free policies.

Extended Detection Window

The extended detection window of hair follicle tests in Columbus, TX, stretches up to 90 days. This comprehensive scope allows employers to gain deeper insights into a person's drug usage history, surpassing the limitations of shorter-term alternatives like urine tests, promoting safer work environments.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Columbus, TX, hair follicle testing is celebrated for its tamper-resistant nature, drastically minimizing risks of sample adulteration. This reliable testing method guarantees trust in results, providing unmatched certainty in identifying illicit drug use, vital for maintaining workplace integrity.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

In Columbus, TX, our network of nationwide testing centers ensures convenient access to hair follicle drug testing services. This setup facilitates quick, uncomplicated testing experiences, making it easier for individuals and companies to adhere to necessary regulations without hassle.

Simple, Confidential Process

Offering a straightforward and confidential testing process in Columbus, TX, our hair follicle tests prioritize client privacy. From easy test ordering to discreet result delivery, individuals and organizations can feel secure while receiving vital substance use information efficiently.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Hair follicle tests in Columbus, TX, come with competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times. This affordability combined with swift results delivery provides businesses with excellent value, enabling companies of all sizes to ensure workplace safety without breaking the bank.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Columbus, TX, hair follicle drug tests are lauded for their precision and speed, offering quick yet highly accurate substance detection. This testing method ensures a thorough examination, giving employers and individuals a reliable assessment of potential drug use, enhancing safety in workplaces and communities.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Columbus, TX, find peace of mind with hair follicle tests, ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace standards. By effectively reducing legal risks and enhancing safety, this testing method supports organizational policies, contributing to a healthier and more secure work environment.

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