Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair analysis has gained prominence as an effective method for identifying substance use, including drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a prolonged history of these substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as they develop. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can offer a detection timeframe of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. The process of obtaining hair samples is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
Obtaining a 1.5-inch sample comprising roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields about 100mg of hair, perfect for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. The specimen should ideally be weighed with a jeweler’s scale. If head hair is unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair denote only scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other hair categories (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step, incorporating a sample into the laboratory system. It ensures the sample's proper sealing and transport, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addresses any missing data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective method to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for legal acceptance. All samples showing potential positive results in Screening necessitate further validation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. This phase involves retrieving drugs from the hair at substantially lower concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most intricate process to execute.
Confirmation of positive Screening outcomes is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Prior to confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing as required. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is supervised according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair Follicle Testing vs. Urine Tests in Port Arthur, TX
Hair follicle testing proves its superiority over traditional urine tests through its enhanced accuracy and dependability. While urine tests capture a brief snapshot of recent substance use, hair tests reveal a larger window of detection. This comprehensive insight makes hair testing the favored choice for employers aiming for stringent substance abuse control policies.
Extended Detection Period of Hair Follicle Testing
Hair tests in Port Arthur, TX, extend the detection window for drug use up to a significant 90 days. This allows employers to gain a complete picture of a candidate or employee's substance history. By capturing a broader timeline, they enable informed decision-making, thereby supporting long-term workplace safety and compliance.
Ensuring Tamper-Resistant Testing in Port Arthur, TX
The hair follicle test stands out as a tamper-resistant technique, reducing the risk of sample adulteration significantly. This provides an undeniable assurance of reliability in the results. This robust method ensures that the test outcomes remain beyond reproach, delivering peace of mind to both employers and employees alike.
Accessible Nationwide Testing Centers
Our expansive network of testing facilities across Port Arthur, TX, and Nationwide guarantees simple and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. This convenience ensures fast and efficient service for all clients, enhancing the overall testing experience and allowing for easy integration into company protocols.
Convenient and Confidential Testing Process
The process for ordering and conducting hair follicle tests in Port Arthur, TX, is both straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving the results, privacy and ease of use are prioritized. This streamlined procedure addresses potential concerns, ensuring that clients feel secure and comfortable throughout.
Cost-Effective Pricing and Quick Results
In Port Arthur, TX, we offer competitive pricing paired with swift turnaround times for hair follicle tests. This dynamic combination provides unbeatable value for companies of all sizes, ensuring they receive excellent service without straining budgets. Our efficiency and affordability make us a top choice for businesses seeking reliable testing solutions.
Speed and Accuracy of Hair Follicle Drug Tests
In Port Arthur, TX, hair follicle tests offer impressively rapid and reliable outcomes in detecting drug usage. Their precision in identifying substances ensures accurate assessments, crucial for maintaining a drug-free environment. The swift turnaround time in providing results underscores the efficacy of hair follicle tests over other testing methods.
Ensuring Compliance and Peace for Employers
With hair follicle testing, employers in Port Arthur, TX, achieve assured compliance with drug-free policies in the workplace. By significantly reducing legal risks, these tests foster a safer, more efficient work environment. The reliable outcomes of hair testing instill confidence in maintaining a clear, substance-free workplace.
