Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is considered a robust method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. The fibers of the growing hair strand capture biomarkers providing a prolonged record of substance use. When hair is gathered close to the scalp, it offers an approximately 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively secure from manipulation, and easily transported.
A 1.5-inch lock comprised of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the circumference of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG screenings, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. When we talk about head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four key phases in lab processing for drug test outcomes: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is processed into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and delivered, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and completes any further data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. While economical for ruling out drug usage for most samples, a positive result needs further confirmation to be permissible in legal contexts. Any presumptive positives in Screening require a secondary confirmation.
If Screening suggests a positive result, more hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. At this stage, drug compounds are extracted from hair at a much lesser concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluids), thus making hair drug testing the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any presumed positive screening is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. Samples that test positive as presumed undergo washing before confirmation when necessary. The entire lab sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) with Hair designation and holds accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 norms.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite commonly being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle embedded beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle tests to urine tests in Arrowhead Highlands, CA, the advantages are clear. Hair tests offer a superior level of accuracy and reliability, with a longer detection period for tracking substance use. While urine tests have been traditional, hair analysis provides a comprehensive view, reducing the risks of inconclusive results and enhancing trust in the outcome.
Employers in Arrowhead Highlands, CA, opt for hair follicle testing due to its extended detection window. By analyzing hair samples, drug use can be identified for up to 90 days, offering a full view of an employee's or candidate's substance history. This comprehensive detection approach aids in making informed decisions regarding hiring and retention.
Hair follicle testing is a robust method in Arrowhead Highlands, CA, renowned for its tamper-resistant nature. The process effectively reduces the chances of sample alteration, ensuring results are accurate and uncompromised. For employers and legal entities, this testing method provides confidence that the data obtained reflects true substance use without interference.
Our testing centers in Arrowhead Highlands, CA, and nationwide ensure convenient access to drug testing services. With multiple locations, scheduling a hair follicle test is seamless and hassle-free. This network of facilities provides both local residents and national clients with quick and reliable testing options, ensuring peace of mind through easy accessibility.
The process for scheduling and undertaking hair follicle tests in Arrowhead Highlands, CA, is straightforward and confidential. Customers can order tests easily, engage in the testing process smoothly, and receive their results with assured privacy. This user-friendly procedure addresses privacy concerns while offering an efficient service experience.
Arrowhead Highlands, CA, benefits from hair follicle testing with competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. Businesses of all sizes appreciate the value provided through affordable rates and quick, reliable results. This commitment to cost-effectiveness and expediency makes hair testing a favorable option for organizations seeking economical and dependable drug screening solutions.
In Arrowhead Highlands, CA, hair follicle drug testing stands out for delivering quick and reliable results. Known for its precision, the method ensures accurate detection of substance use. The tests are designed to provide results swiftly, making them ideal for situations requiring timely assessments. Whether for employers or individuals, the reliability of hair analysis in pinpointing drug use is unparalleled.
Employers in Arrowhead Highlands, CA, find peace of mind with hair follicle testing, ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This testing approach minimizes legal risks and enhances safety, providing assurance that business operations adhere to regulatory standards while promoting a secure working environment for all employees.
