Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Commerce, TX

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective method for detecting substance use related to drugs and alcohol. It retains a comprehensive record of drug and alcohol use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When hair is taken from near the scalp, it offers a detection span of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and shipping is convenient.

A sample size of 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 strands of hair (approximately the diameter of a #2 pencil), yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for testing and confirmation. In cases requiring EtG add-ons or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advisable. It's suggested to measure the sample on a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. The term "head hair" is specific to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (such as facial and axillary hair).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of drug test results encompasses four core steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning relates to the preliminary processing of a sample within a laboratory’s system, encompassing verification of the sample's proper sealing and shipping, allocation of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any remaining data entry absent from the electronic chain of custody system.

Screening serves as an initial rapid assessment for the presence of drugs. Though a cost-effective measure for eliminating drug use in most samples, confirmed positive tests are essential for legal acceptability. Samples yielding presumptive positives in Screening necessitate further confirmation.

For specimens identified as presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepped for the Extraction phase. During this stage, drugs are isolated from the hair at considerably low concentrations, in contrast to other methods like urine or saliva testing, underscoring why hair drug screening is notably challenging.

For a confirmed positive result post-screening, technologies such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are employed. Any samples initially testing positive undergo washing before the confirmation stage, as required. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted adhering to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug testing can identify drug usage for as long as 90 days, whereas urine tests offer a briefer detection period.
• Challenging to manipulate: Hair drug tests are difficult to alter, ensuring more reliable results.
• Historical data provision: Supplies a chronological depiction of drug use over time, not merely recent use.

Limitations:

• Limited recent use detection: Drugs require approximately 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests tend to be costlier compared to other drug testing approaches.
• Result variability: Aspects like hair color and individual hair growth rates may influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests," the test evaluates the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests in Commerce, TX, the superiority of hair testing becomes clear. Hair testing stands out due to its reliable detection accuracy, offering a comprehensive review of an individual's drug use history. With a longer detection window and nearly impossible to tamper with, hair testing gives a credible assessment against urine testing.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Commerce, TX offers an extended detection window, making it a preferred choice for many employers. This method can track drug usage over a span of up to 90 days, providing a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's history. This prolonged window allows employers to make informed decisions regarding potential hires or current employees.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Commerce, TX, hair follicle testing reduces the risk of sample adulteration significantly. The integrity of the testing process ensures reliable and definitive results, crucial for employers and professionals seeking trustworthy outcomes. This method curtails any attempts to manipulate the sample, offering peace of mind to all concerned parties.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Offering convenient nationwide testing locations, including local services in Commerce, TX, ensures easy access to testing services. Accredited Drug Testing provides numerous centers across the nation, facilitating quick and hassle-free testing processes for individuals and companies alike.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process for hair follicle testing in Commerce, TX is simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the steps are designed for ease and privacy, addressing potential concerns. Individuals can trust that their information is handled discreetly and efficiently, receiving results promptly and maintaining confidentiality.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

In Commerce, TX, Accredited Drug Testing offers affordable pricing and quick turnaround times, delivering top value for businesses. Competitive pricing structures ensure services are accessible to companies of all sizes, providing excellent value without compromising on quality or speed of results.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Commerce, TX, hair follicle drug tests offer fast, accurate results, outshining other testing methods. The precision of this testing approach guarantees high accuracy, making it a trustworthy option for detecting substance use. The speed at which results are delivered ensures minimal wait times, providing quick access to essential information.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Commerce, TX benefit from hair follicle testing as it ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. Adopting this testing method reduces legal risks and maintains a secure work environment. Employers enjoy peace of mind knowing that they adhere to regulatory standards, providing a safer space for all employees.

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