Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is widely recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. The hair captures biomarkers within the strand as it grows, preserving a historical record of alcohol and drug consumption. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol usage for approximately up to three months. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and can be easily mailed.
A sample of 200 strands, measuring 1.5 inches (around the size of a #2 pencil) near the scalp, equates to 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for testing and confirmation. For EtG, add-on tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. “Head hair” refers exclusively to scalp hair, while “body hair” denotes all other types (like facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The drug test result process comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing into the lab's system, ensuring proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening initially checks for drug abuse quickly. Although cost-efficient for ruling out usage in most samples, a positive result in Screening necessitates confirmation for court validity. Any samples presumptively positive in this stage need further confirmation.
If a Screening indicates presumptive positivity, additional hair is collected from the original sample for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other tests (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is particularly challenging.
Positive screenings are confirmed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation as needed. The full process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is reviewed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term “hair follicle tests” is a misnomer; the test evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Crystal City, TX
The advantages of hair follicle over urine testing are clear: superior detection accuracy and dependability in substance use identification. Hair testing provides insights over extended periods, making it an excellent choice for assessing long-term patterns.
While urine tests are better for recent drug use detection, hair tests hold up as the practical option for getting a wider perspective on someone's drug habits, crucial for employment and legal purposes.
Extended Detection Window in Crystal City, TX
Hair follicle testing is noteworthy for its ability to identify drug use over a longer timeframe—up to 90 days. For employers in Crystal City, this offers a thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history, valuable for informed employment decisions.
This extended detection period is essential in screening processes, helping to maintain a safe and compliant work environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Crystal City, TX
Hair follicle testing significantly mitigates the odds of sample tampering, instilling confidence in its outcomes. In Crystal City, TX, the integrity of hair tests means organizations can trust the results as dependable and authentic.
The near-impossibility to alter tests ensures that employers and individuals receive unadulterated reports, contributing to honest and transparent evaluations.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Crystal City, TX
The availability of Accredited Drug Testing's facilities nationwide ensures access to testing services is easy and hassle-free, including in Crystal City, TX. This convenience offers individuals and organizations swift access, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
With testing centers within reach, clients avoid long distances, ensuring timely and effective testing processes.
Simple, Confidential Process in Crystal City, TX
The straightforward and private nature of ordering, undergoing, and receiving hair test results in Crystal City, TX takes care of people's privacy concerns. This ease of use enables a smooth experience for all parties involved.
By prioritizing confidentiality, the process ensures that privacy is a fundamental aspect, appreciated by both individuals and employers seeking accurate results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Crystal City, TX
In Crystal City, TX, Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing and swift turnaround for hair follicle tests, ensuring excellent value. Quick reporting timeframes provide peace of mind for businesses of varying sizes.
Our cost-effective solutions make high-quality testing accessible, empowering companies to maintain standards without straining financial resources.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Crystal City, TX
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and speed, offering highly reliable detection of substance use. In Crystal City, TX, rapid and accurate results are crucial for maintaining safety and compliance in various settings.
Employers, legal entities, and individuals rely on hair testing for its ability to deliver quick yet thorough evaluations. This method's accuracy ensures peace of mind and informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Crystal City, TX
Having hair follicle testing in place ensures that employers in Crystal City, TX meet drug-free workplace requirements. This reduces legal liabilities and fosters safer work environments, thus enhancing organizational trust and operational stability.
Adopting such precise testing methods reassures employers of their compliance status and decreases illicit substance-related risks.
