Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Seen as an effective methodology, hair testing aids in the discovery of alcohol and drug consumption. By integrating biomarkers in the hair strand's fibers, hair maintains a prolonged log of drug use. When harvested near the scalp, it can reveal usage of alcohol and drugs for up to roughly 3 months. It’s straightforward to acquire, less prone to tampering, and convenient to dispatch.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of about 200 strands (similar to a #2 pencil width) nearest to the scalp, delivers 100mg of hair which is optimal for screening and validation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. It is beneficial to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair not be present, a comparable amount of body hair suffices. By head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair, while body hair comprises all other kinds (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test is categorized into four significant procedures: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning concerns the initial entry of a sample into a laboratory’s framework. This process involves ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and inputting any additional data not included in the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers a preliminary, swift assessment for substance abuse. Although cost-effective in negating drug usage for most samples, a positive screen must be validated for court acceptance. Screening results suggesting positivity undergo further verification.
Should a sample suggest positivity at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen to prepare for Extraction. At this step, drugs are extracted from the hair at concentrations far lower than other methodologies (urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening particularly challenging to execute.
Positive screening confirmations are conducted utilizing GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo necessary washes before confirmation. Both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards oversee the complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests," the examination targets the hair strand rather than the sub-scalp hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Earth, TX
Unlike urine tests that detect only recent drug use, hair follicle tests reveal patterns over months, offering a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance behavior. This makes hair testing a preferred choice for employers seeking thorough assessments of their employees’ commitment to a substance-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Earth, TX
Employers seeking to understand an applicant's true substance history benefit from the prolonged detection period of hair follicle testing. It ensures a detailed view that short-term tests can’t offer, aiding in making safer and more informed hiring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Earth, TX
Unlike other testing methods, the integrity of hair follicle exams is notably tough to compromise. This builds trust in the results among employers, ensuring that the hires they make adhere to company standards regarding drug use and honesty.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Earth, TX
Accredited Drug Testing removes the complexities of drug screening by offering widespread availability. With easily reachable testing sites, clients in Earth, TX enjoy the ease and speed of obtaining essential testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Earth, TX
We prioritize client confidentiality and simplicity throughout the testing process in Earth, TX. The user-friendly procedure ensures minimal hassle, safeguarding the dignity and privacy of all participants.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Earth, TX
Balancing affordability with efficiency, our services cater to businesses seeking quick and reliable drug testing. The combination of competitive costs and rapid results sets a standard in Earth, TX for practicable screening solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Earth, TX
Accuracy is key in drug testing, and hair follicle analysis delivers on this promise with reliable outcomes. The tests are adept at recognizing a broad range of substances, ensuring that no usage goes unnoticed. This level of detail supports a safer working environment by helping employers make the best possible hires.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Earth, TX
Employers in Earth, TX find reassurance in hair follicle testing as it solidifies their commitment to a safe workplace. This reliable testing option reduces compliance-related stress and upholds the integrity of company operations.