Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has established itself as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a repository of alcohol and drug biomarkers over an extended period by embedding them within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When the sample includes hair close to the scalp, the detection window for our testing can be up to about 3 months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair is effortlessly collected, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and conveniently shipped.
A specimen approximately 1.5 inches in length, with around 200 strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp can provide a 100mg sample, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation testing. For those requiring EtG, additional panels, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. It is advisable to weigh the hair specimen using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a similar quantity of body hair is an acceptable substitute. References to head hair pertain exclusively to scalp hair. Any mention of body hair encompasses all other types of hair (including facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The process for conducting laboratory analysis of a drug test involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample enters a laboratory's workflow, ensuring its proper sealing and shipping, assigning an arbitrary Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any necessary data entry beyond what the electronic chain of custody system has provided.
Screening provides an initial assessment for potential drug abuse. Although it serves as an economical approach to rule out drug use in most samples, any positive result from this stage must be confirmed to be credible in legal settings. Samples indicating presumptive positives during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If the Screening indicates a presumptive positive result, additional hair from the original specimen is prepped for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are retrieved from hair at much lower concentrations, which makes hair drug testing more complex compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods confirm any positive Screening results. Before confirmation, all presumptively positive samples are cleansed as required. The complete laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is conducted in accordance with CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the assessment actually analyzes the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Triumphs Over Urine Testing in Viola, TX
Hair follicle tests offer superior accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. While urine tests detect recent substance use, hair tests provide a broader detection window, capturing a detailed history of drug use. This makes them an excellent tool for employers aiming to enforce stringent drug-free policies.
Extended Detection Window in Viola, TX
Hair follicle testing provides a significant advantage with its extended detection window, up to 90 days. This timeline facilitates a comprehensive view of an individual's drug history, far exceeding the brief timeframe of urine tests. Employers benefit from this insight, making more informed hiring decisions and monitoring ongoing compliance with drug-free workplace policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Viola, TX
Hair follicle drug tests are inherently tamper-resistant. By utilizing a sample collected through an observed process, the risk of adulteration is substantially minimized. This reliability ensures a trustworthy analysis, providing clear, unquestionable results that stand up under scrutiny and maintain integrity in drug testing protocols.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Viola, TX
Accredited Drug Testing connects you with numerous centers nationwide, simplifying test access wherever you are. In Viola, TX, local options further add convenience, offering a quick and unfussy process to meet your testing needs. This extensive network guarantees hassle-free testing services for all.
Simple, Confidential Process in Viola, TX
The testing process with Accredited Drug Testing is streamlined for simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, we prioritize your privacy. Our discreet procedures mitigate concerns, offering a straightforward, user-friendly experience while ensuring your data remains secure at all stages.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Viola, TX
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing without compromising quality or speed. Our efficient processes ensure quick result turnaround, providing excellent value and peace of mind. Employers appreciate our commitment to cost-effective solutions that don't sacrifice the reliability of outcomes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Viola, TX
At Accredited Drug Testing, we ensure rapid and precise results with hair follicle drug tests. These tests offer high accuracy, efficiently identifying drug use. The process is streamlined for speed, allowing employers to make informed decisions faster. Our commitment to accuracy means results you can trust.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Viola, TX
Utilizing hair follicle testing contributes significantly to compliance with drug-free workplace policies. Employers in Viola, TX, benefit from reduced legal risks and enhanced workplace safety. By employing this method, companies maintain stringent compliance, ensure safer environments, and bolster employee trust and confidence.
