Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands retain a long-term record of alcohol and substance use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers as the hair grows. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reflect up to a 3-month detection window for alcohol and drugs. It's easy to gather, relatively tamper-resistant, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides about 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and verification. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or assessments beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the specimen is suggested. If scalp hair isn't available, a comparable quantity of body hair may be collected. The term head hair solely refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary procedures in laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory's system. This step verifies the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody framework.
Screening performs an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient approach to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for legal acceptance. Any samples that test presumptively positive during Screening necessitate an additional confirmation.
When a sample tests presumptively positive in the Screening phase, further hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. In this stage, substances are removed from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive specimens are cleaned before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certificate and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly called "hair follicle tests", the exam actually assesses the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle tests to urine tests in Robert Lee, TX, the former clearly triumphs. Hair testing's ability to detect substances used over an extended period makes it superior to traditional urine tests which typically lack long-term detection reliability.
The accuracy of hair tests in showcasing consistent substance use far outweighs the temporary detection of urine tests. This makes hair testing essential for maintaining drug-free environments, protecting both individuals and organizations.
Employers in Robert Lee, TX, greatly benefit from the extended detection window offered by hair follicle tests. Able to reveal substance use up to 90 days back, these tests provide a comprehensive view of an individual's drug history.
This extended window allows employers to thoroughly evaluate potential hires or current employees, making informed decisions that support a safe and productive work environment.
One of the standout advantages of hair follicle tests in Robert Lee, TX, is their tamper-resistant nature. Unlike other testing methods, hair samples are difficult to adulterate, assuring reliable and unquestionable results.
This inherent resilience against tampering provides employers and legal authorities with confidence in the integrity of the results, reinforcing the credibility of the testing process.
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient access to testing services in Robert Lee, TX, through our nationwide network of centers. This ensures that individuals and employers can easily and quickly access necessary tests without hassle.
Our local presence, combined with a broad reach, guarantees that testing services are both accessible and efficient, meeting the needs of our clients seamlessly.
Our process in Robert Lee, TX, for hair follicle drug testing is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, clients experience ease and discretion, eliminating privacy concerns often associated with drug testing.
We prioritize client comfort, ensuring that the testing process is not just simple but also respects individual confidentiality, fostering trust in our services.
Accredited Drug Testing in Robert Lee, TX, offers competitive pricing and swift turnaround times for hair follicle drug testing. Our affordable rates ensure that companies of all sizes can access top-notch testing without financial strain.
Fast results combined with reasonable pricing deliver unparalleled value, helping businesses maintain compliance and peace of mind efficiently and economically.
Hair follicle drug testing in Robert Lee, TX, offers fast, reliable, and highly accurate results, making it a preferred choice for many. The precision involved in detecting substance use is unparalleled, ensuring employers receive dependable information promptly.
Accuracy in hair testing extends to identifying a wide range of substances with minimal false positives. This level of precision aids employers and authorities in making informed decisions, enhancing trust in the testing process.
Hair follicle testing in Robert Lee, TX, ensures compliance with workplace policies, offering peace of mind to employers. By using this method, companies can effectively uphold drug-free standards, mitigating legal risks and enhancing safety.
The consistency and reliability of hair testing bolster confidence in maintaining a secure, healthy workplace, safeguarding the organization's reputation and operational integrity.