Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term evidence of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal substance exposure for roughly a 3-month period. Collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easily shipped.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of about 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil), yields 100mg, the perfect amount for tests and verification. For EtG, additional examinations, and/or screenings exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It is suggested to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing. Should scalp hair be absent, a similar amount of body hair can be collected. The term head hair specifically denotes scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages in lab processing of a drug test are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the sample's preliminary integration into the lab's system, including checking proper sealing and shipping, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and completing any other data entry not supported by an electronic custody chain.
Screening is a preliminary, rapid assessment for substances. Although Screening is a budget-friendly approach for eliminating drug presence in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to hold up legally. Samples that are tentatively positive in Screening must undergo a secondary check.
For samples positive in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial collection for Extraction preparation. Here, drug compounds are isolated from hair at a lower concentration than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmations of positive Screenings utilize GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before Confirmation, any samples suspected to be positive undergo necessary washing. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation receives a thorough review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the evaluation actually examines the hair shaft, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in The Colony, TX
Comparatively, hair testing surpasses urine tests through its longer detection periods and superior accuracy. While urine tests are common, their limitations in tracing long-term drug use can be critical. Hair tests extend insights, enabling clearer understanding of a person's substance habits.
Extended Detection Window in The Colony, TX
One of the hallmark advantages of hair follicle testing is its wide detection window—up to 90 days. This capability allows employers to gain deeper insights into applicants or workers' substance history, proving essential in maintaining a rigorous drug-free environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in The Colony, TX
The integrity of hair follicle testing is a standout factor. Its design inherently reduces the risk of adulteration. Compared to other methods, this testing offers reliable results that are nearly impossible to fake, assuring the data's authenticity.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in The Colony, TX
With a network of testing centers throughout the nation and local facilities in The Colony, TX, accessing drug testing services is straightforward. Enjoy the convenience of our services, designed to be quick and hassle-free at every location.
Simple, Confidential Process in The Colony, TX
The procedure for ordering, undertaking, and receiving results from a hair drug test is streamlined and private. This ensures maximum confidentiality and ease of access, putting any privacy concerns at ease while ensuring a seamless experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in The Colony, TX
We offer competitive rates coupled with speedy turnaround times for high-quality drug testing services. Every organization, regardless of its size, benefits from our pricing structure, gaining excellent value coupled with rapid result delivery.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in The Colony, TX
Hair follicle drug testing excels in providing quick and precise results. This method's ability to accurately identify substances used is unmatched. Employers favor hair tests for their reliability, ensuring no recent substance usage goes unrecognized. Quick analysis times offer results promptly, supporting efficient decision-making processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in The Colony, TX
Employing hair follicle tests assures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal liability and boosting safety. Companies find peace of mind in knowing that this testing method aligns well with organizational and compliance standards.
