Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a long-term repository of drug and alcohol markers by embedding biomarkers within the strands as hair grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate 3-month detection period for substances like alcohol. The collection of hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp results in 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. In cases involving EtG, additional testing, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen quantity of 150mg is suggested. It is advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, a similar amount of body hair can be collected. It is important to note that when mentioning head hair, we only refer to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four fundamental steps in the laboratory analysis of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into the laboratory’s system. This process includes verification of the sample’s seal and proper shipment, assignment of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completion of any missing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening comprises a preliminary rapid check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to potentially exclude drug use in the majority of samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation to be court-admissible. Presumptively positive Screening samples require subsequent confirmation.
If the sample appears positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. During Extraction, drugs are withdrawn from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening a challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is conducted through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicated as presumptively positive undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on analyzing the hair strand, not the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Westfield, TX
Hair testing stands out as a superior alternative to urine tests due to its unmatched detection accuracy and dependability. Unlike urine tests, which may only identify recent consumption, hair follicle tests unveil a broader history of substance use. This makes them an ideal choice for environments prioritizing rigorous testing measures and long-term vigilance.
Extended Detection Window in Westfield, TX
With an extraordinary detection window of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing provides a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use. This extended timeline surpasses that of most traditional methods, offering employers valuable insight into a candidate or worker's behavioral patterns, thereby aiding in thorough assessment and informed decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Westfield, TX
Hair follicle testing offers superior resistance to tampering compared to other testing methods. By using collected hair samples, this method significantly limits the likelihood of altering or manipulating test results. The unbreachable nature of hair tests makes them a reliable option, ensuring trust in the results obtained and confidence in maintaining integrity within testing protocols.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Westfield, TX
Accessing testing services has never been simpler with numerous certified centers situated nationwide, including Westfield, TX. Our comprehensive network ensures you get quick, easy, and dependable access to the testing services you require, minimizing wait times and simplifying logistical challenges associated with drug testing.
Simple, Confidential Process in Westfield, TX
Our straightforward and confidential testing process supports ease of use and privacy protection. From order placement to taking the test and receiving results, every step is designed to uphold discretion and efficiency. Trust, comfort, and clarity are paramount, allowing you to handle drug testing requirements easily while safeguarding personal privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Westfield, TX
We offer competitive pricing models and swift turnaround times, which assure excellent value for businesses of any size. Affordable pricing does not compromise our quality or speed, ensuring you receive the best possible service while effectively managing costs, securing prompt outcomes conducive to timely decision-making.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Westfield, TX
Hair follicle drug testing boasts remarkable precision and speed. It effectively identifies substance use, providing highly accurate results that are critical for informed decision-making. Emphasizing care and exactness, the method minimizes risks associated with incorrect evaluations, ensuring dependable outcomes for employers and individuals alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Westfield, TX
Employers can achieve assurance and adhere to workplace drug-free policies more effectively with hair follicle testing. It underpins efforts to support a safe working environment, diminish legal challenges, and reinforce compliance. This effective measure not only enforces company regulations but also nurtures a culture of transparency and respect for established standards.
