Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations are increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of substance use by embedding biomarkers in the hair strand as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of close to 3 months for substances like alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, tough to tamper with, and uncomplicated to dispatch.
A 1.5-inch portion consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, it is suggested that 150mg of the sample be used. It's advisable to use a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, a similar volume of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we are specifically referring to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test encompasses four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the introduction of a sample into a lab’s system. This step ensures the sample's seal and shipping are intact, assigns a distinct LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfills any data entry lacking an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening provides a cost-effective means to negate drug use in most cases, a conclusive confirmation is needed for judicial acceptability. Every sample with a tentative positive in Screening will undergo secondary confirmation.
Should a sample be tentatively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the existing sample for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), making hair testing a challenging methodology.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS confirms each positive Screening outcome. All samples with presumed positives are cleansed pre-confirmation as required. The comprehensive lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, aligns with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Atherton, CA
Hair testing offers a superior alternative due to its extended detection abilities and minimization of test evasion tactics. Unlike urine tests, which have a shorter detection window, hair tests can reveal drug use over an extensive period, thereby providing a more comprehensive account of an individual's substance history.
The reliability of hair testing further establishes its advantage, making it a more precise method compared to traditional urine testing, particularly in scenarios necessitating rigorous scrutiny.
Extended Detection Window in Atherton, CA
One of the notable benefits of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect substance use over a prolonged period, reaching back up to 90 days. This extended detection capability allows employers in Atherton, CA, to acquire a detailed view of a person's substance-related behaviors over time.
This prolonged window is pivotal for organizations aiming to uphold stringent usage policies and for individuals under monitoring, providing a perceptive history rather than just a snapshot.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Atherton, CA
Hair follicle tests offer enhanced security from tampering, a major advantage over other testing methods. The possibility of altering results is minimal due to the nature of hair samples, ensuring that the outcomes remain valid and dependable.
This security aspect ensures that results are trustworthy, making hair testing a preferred method in Atherton for those requiring assured verifiability of outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Atherton, CA
Our expansive network of testing centers, including convenient locations in Atherton, CA, provides easy access to hair follicle testing services. This nationwide availability ensures that testing can be conducted swiftly and without hassle.
The accessibility of our testing locations greatly enhances user experience, offering hassle-free service that aligns with our commitment to efficient processes.
Simple, Confidential Process in Atherton, CA
Ordering, undergoing, and receiving results from a hair follicle test is streamlined to maintain simplicity and confidentiality. In Atherton, CA, individuals can trust that privacy is prioritized throughout the process.
This straightforward approach alleviates concerns regarding confidentiality, making the testing procedure not just efficient but also respectful of personal privacy needs.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Atherton, CA
Our competitive pricing structures for hair follicle drug testing in Atherton, CA, paired with fast result turnaround times, provide excellent value to businesses. These aspects ensure companies receive timely insights without financial burden.
The combination of reasonable costs and swift service delivery emphasizes our commitment to providing superior value while meeting client expectations promptly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Atherton, CA
Hair follicle drug tests provide unparalleled precision and speed in detecting drug use. These tests are not only prompt but also offer accuracy levels that surpass traditional methods, making them a preferred choice for timely and reliable results in Atherton, CA.
The efficiency and credibility of hair testing methods ensure that substance use is detected accurately, contributing to its growing preference among employers and legal entities requiring quick and definitive results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Atherton, CA
Implementing hair follicle testing within workplace policies in Atherton, CA, supports a drug-free environment by ensuring thorough compliance. This testing methodology minimizes legal liabilities and enhances overall workplace safety, granting employers peace of mind.
Ensuring adherence to drug-free policies using hair testing reduces the risk of legal disputes and promotes a secure work setting, significantly decreasing potential hazards.
