Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive historical account of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within its developing fiber structures. When gathered near the scalp, hair offers an approximate 3-month observational window for detecting alcohol and drug use. Collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and shipping is uncomplicated.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of around 200 hair strands (similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp produces 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For tests involving EtG, additional analysis, and/or over 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is recommended to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. In cases where scalp hair is absent, a comparable volume of body hair can be used. Reference to head hair specifically pertains to scalp hair only, whereas body hair includes other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in processing a drug test in a lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage where a sample is processed into the lab’s system. It involves verifying proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing information not included in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening functions as an initial rapid assessment for drug usage. Though cost-effective in ruling out drug use in most cases, positive findings from Screening need verification for legal admissibility. Samples testing presumptive positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
Once a Screening yields a presumptive positive, more hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction stage. Drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than in other forms (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is considered the most challenging to execute.
Upon receiving a positive result in Screening, Confirmation is performed utilizing GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. Each phase from Accessioning through to Confirmation undergoes review in accordance with CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards as well as ISO / IEC 17025 certifications.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite colloquially termed as "hair follicle tests," the procedure examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
In Hoover, TX, hair testing trumps urine tests through unmatched detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests offer a longer detection period and are less susceptible to tampering, offering peace of mind for employers and comprehensive substance use history.
Extended Detection Window
In Hoover, TX, hair follicle testing offers an expansive detection window, capturing drug use over a period of up to 90 days. This makes it invaluable for employers tracking long-term substance use, ensuring a more thorough vetting process for employees and candidates alike.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
Hoover, TX benefits from the tamper-proof nature of hair follicle tests. These tests minimize the risk of sample adulteration, thereby guaranteeing reliable and trustworthy results, which is crucial for maintaining integrity in drug screening processes.
Convenient Nationwide and Local Testing Locations
With a broad network of testing centers, Hoover, TX offers unmatched convenience. Employees and employers benefit from quick and easy access to testing services across the nation and locally, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Simple, Confidential Process
The process in Hoover, TX for hair follicle testing is straightforward and private. From ordering to receiving results, the confidentiality and ease of the process address privacy concerns, enhancing user experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
In Hoover, TX, competitive pricing paired with swift turnaround times make hair follicle testing accessible for companies of all sizes. This ensures excellent value while providing assurance with quick results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Hoover, TX, the precision of hair follicle drug tests offers undeniable advantages. These tests provide highly accurate detection of substance use, outpacing other methods. Their reliability and quick turnaround times contribute to their effectiveness, making them a preferred choice for employers seeking dependable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Hair follicle testing in Hoover, TX provides employers assurance in sustaining drug-free workplaces. It helps ensure compliance with workplace policies, mitigates legal ramifications, and enhances overall workplace safety, resulting in peace of mind.
