Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures a prolonged record of substance use by storing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. Collected near the scalp, hair offers roughly a 3-month window for detecting alcohol and other substances. It is easy to gather, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of about 200 strands (nearly the size of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is optimal for assessment and validation. For EtG, supplementary analyses, and/or screenings beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, an equivalent amount of body hair may be used. Reference to head hair specifically denotes scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair classifications (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The chief stages in the lab handling of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the preliminary integration of a specimen into a lab's system. This involves confirming the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplementary data input missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a preliminary rapid check for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation to be legally valid. Any samples regarded as presumptive positives in Screening demand a secondary affirmation.
In instances where a sample is provisionally positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original batch and readied for Extraction. At this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing the most challenging process to execute.
Any positive screening result is confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing as required. The entire lab protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis itself examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Blairsden, CA
When comparing hair follicle testing to urine tests, hair testing demonstrates superior detection accuracy. It provides reliable results for assessing drug use history, giving employers added confidence in Blairsden, CA.
Extended Detection Window in Blairsden, CA
One of the major benefits of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use for up to 90 days. This extended detection window offers a comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, aiding employers in making informed decisions in Blairsden, CA.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Blairsden, CA
Hair follicle tests minimize the risk of sample adulteration, providing results that are both reliable and unquestionable. The method’s resistance to tampering assures authenticity in drug testing processes in Blairsden, CA.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Blairsden, CA
Our extensive network of testing centers offers a convenient, quick, and stress-free way to access drug testing services. Whether you are in Blairsden or any other city Nationwide, seamless service is always nearby.
Simple, Confidential Process in Blairsden, CA
Ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle drug tests is straightforward and confidential. We prioritize privacy, ensuring ease and peace of mind for individuals in Blairsden, CA.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Blairsden, CA
We offer competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, ensuring excellent value for companies of varying sizes. This affordability coupled with rapid results provides peace of mind in Blairsden, CA.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Blairsden, CA
Hair follicle drug tests offer precision and rapid results. These tests excel at detecting substance use with a high degree of accuracy. Their ability to identify drugs ensures reliable results, making them a trusted choice for employers and safety personnel in Blairsden, CA.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Blairsden, CA
Implementing hair follicle testing enhances compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This reduces legal risks and promotes workplace safety, giving employers peace of mind in Blairsden, CA.
