Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Seen as an effective tool, hair testing is popular for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged record of drug and alcohol exposure, capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use for a period of up to approximately 3 months. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient to ship.
Collecting a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (similar to a #2 pencil's thickness) from the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is optimal for testing and verification. When testing for EtG, additional testing, or more than 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It's advisable to weigh the hair on a jeweler’s scale. When scalp hair is unavailable, the same amount of body hair can be collected. References to head hair indicate scalp hair only, while body hair covers all other types of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure of processing a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is initially processed into the lab’s system, including the verification of its sealing and shipping, the assignment of a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and any additional data entry required beyond what the electronic chain of custody system provides.
Screening serves as a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug presence for most samples, a positive finding requires confirmation for legal acceptance. Presumptively positive samples in Screening must undergo subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are extracted at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.
Positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is ensured under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is misleading since the analysis involves the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Superiority of Hair Testing in Garrison, TX
Hair follicle tests offer significant advantages over traditional urine tests. With enhanced detection accuracy and reliability, they provide a broader scope of substance history, crucial for employers and legal systems.
While urine tests may detect recent usage, hair tests ensure comprehensive analysis over a longer period, reinforcing trust and compliance.
Extended Detection Timeframe in Garrison, TX
Hair follicle testing provides a window of detection stretching up to 90 days. This extended period allows for in-depth assessment of drug use history, beneficial for employers wanting thorough evaluations.
With this broader overview, employers can ensure they are making informed decisions regarding job applicants or current employees.
Secure Testing with Tamper-Proof Methods in Garrison, TX
Hair follicle testing minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, offering reliable and tamper-resistant results. Unlike other testing methods, the hair analysis process is virtually foolproof.
This ensures that results are credible and trustworthy, eliminating the possibility of cheating the system, which is crucial in maintaining integrity.
Convenient Testing Centers Nationwide and Locally in Garrison, TX
Accredited Drug Testing offers nationwide locations, including local access in Garrison, TX. This network ensures easy and hassle-free testing services, meeting diverse needs efficiently.
Quick and accessible testing paths streamline the process, providing peace of mind through reliable service availability.
Confidential and Straightforward Process in Garrison, TX
The process for hair follicle testing is designed to be simple and respectful of privacy. Ordering and obtaining results are straightforward, addressing privacy concerns efficiently.
This streamlined approach ensures ease from start to finish, offering a seamless experience for individuals and organizations.
Competitive Pricing with Fast Service in Garrison, TX
Our hair follicle testing services provide a balance of affordability and efficiency. Competitive pricing structures ensure cost-effective solutions for all business sizes, coupled with fast turnaround times.
By providing exceptional value and prompt service, we enhance customer satisfaction, delivering peace of mind to those we serve.
Rapid and Precise Testing in Garrison, TX
Hair follicle drug testing stands out for its precision and swift results. This advanced method provides accurate detection of substance use, reducing uncertainty and ensuring reliable outcomes quickly.
Employers benefit from the ability to make informed decisions and ensure a safe work environment, with accurate results that leave little room for doubt.
Peace of Mind Through Compliance in Garrison, TX
Implementing hair follicle testing in the workplace ensures adherence to drug-free policies, providing reassurance for employers. This practice reduces legal risks and maintains workplace safety.
By ensuring comprehensive and accurate testing, hair follicle analysis promotes a secure and compliant organizational culture.
