Many employers rely on drug testing to ensure the safety of their workplace. While urinalysis tends to be the most popular method, hair follicle drug tests can provide a more comprehensive look at a person’s substance use history. Here’s some important information about this drug testing technique.

What You Should Know About Hair Follicle Drug Tests

How is the test administered?

Hair follicle tests can be administered in a lab or hospital setting. They can also be done via a mail-order kit that is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The extraction process is simple and requires cutting a small portion of the subject’s hair about an inch and a half from the root.

How far back can the test detect drug use?

This drug testing method can detect substances in a person’s system for as long as 90 days after use. Many employers prefer hair follicle drug tests because they provide a long-term look at the habits of current or prospective employees.

What drugs can be detected?

Hair follicle tests can identify all five classes of drugs that are mandated for drug testing by the Federal Government, including marijuana, opiates, PCP, cocaine, and amphetamines. They can also detect benzodiazepines, ecstasy, codeine, synthetic marijuana, and alcohol.

How accurate are the results?

A strict protocol is followed to ensure this type of drug testing is accurate. All collected hair samples are washed and tested for environmental contaminants that could skew results. And because hair follicle tests measure drug molecules and metabolites that have been inserted into hair strands through the bloodstream, the results won’t be affected by shampooing, hair dying, or styling products.

Can the frequency of drug use influence the result?

A hair follicle drug test will detect any drug that’s been used within a 90 day period. It doesn’t matter how often the drug was used. That’s why if an employer wants to eliminate drug use in the workplace or by employers, this is the preferred method.

If you’re considering using drug testing to ensure the safety of your workplace, get in touch with Lab Testing Solutions in Suwanee, GA. For more than ten years, this company has been providing reliable urine, hair, and blood testing for businesses, along with background checks, payroll integrations, and education verification. Visit their website to learn about the wide range of testing solutions they offer or call (770) 932-0909 to speak with a representative today.