Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can reveal extended information on alcohol and other substance use by encasing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of nearly three months for alcohol and drugs. It's easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches with approximately 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp can yield 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, extra tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is ideal. We recommend using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four essential steps in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first phase where a sample is entered into the lab’s system. It involves checking that the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody process.
Screening provides a quick preliminary check for drugs. Though Screening is economical for eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for court admissibility. All samples showing presumptive positives in Screening need a second confirmation.
In cases of presumptive positives at the Screening stage, additional hair is sourced from the original sample and readied for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a lower concentration compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a meticulous technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening results is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation if required. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", these tests assess the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Newburg, TX
Measured against traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing presents numerous advantages. It excels in detecting drugs due to its extensive detection period and the reliability of its results. With a notable increase in accuracy, hair tests have become a preferred choice for detecting substance use in Newburg, TX.
Extended Detection Window in Newburg, TX
One of the outstanding features of hair follicle testing is its lengthy detection period—up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a detailed view of a person's substance use history, aiding in making informed decisions about hiring or maintaining staff in Newburg, TX.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Newburg, TX
Hair follicle testing provides a robust solution against sample tampering. Due to its design, this test significantly decreases the potential for altering results, ensuring trustworthy outcomes and peace of mind in Newburg, TX.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Newburg, TX
With a widespread network of testing centers, patrons enjoy a seamless experience in Newburg, TX. Our nationwide coverage guarantees easy and swift access to drug testing services, ensuring minimal disruption.
Simple, Confidential Process in Newburg, TX
The hair follicle testing procedure is both straightforward and private, emphasizing the ease of scheduling, conducting, and obtaining results. Our approach ensures user confidentiality, thereby addressing privacy concerns in Newburg, TX.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Newburg, TX
Our competitive pricing, coupled with quick turnaround times, offers exceptional value to businesses big and small in Newburg, TX. We provide a cost-effective testing method, ensuring quick and reliable outcomes every time.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Newburg, TX
Hair follicle drug tests offer an incomparable blend of speed, precision, and reliability. Their unparalleled accuracy in identifying substance use makes them indispensable in Newburg, TX. Rapid reporting and high precision enhance their reputation as one of the most dependable drug testing methods available.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Newburg, TX
Incorporating hair follicle testing in the workplace ensures adherence to drug-free policies, offering employers in Newburg, TX a safeguard against legal challenges and enhancing workplace safety.