Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a potent method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. This is because hair traps biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair, offering a comprehensive history of alcohol and other drugs. When near the scalp, hair can extend up to a three-month detection period for both alcohol and drugs. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch section comprising about 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) close to the scalp provides a 100mg sample, ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and panels exceeding 10, a 150mg specimen is advisable. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not present, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. By scalp hair, we mean hair from the head only. Body hair signifies all other types such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The procedure for lab-processing a drug test consists of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning initiates the sample's processing within a lab system. This involves ensuring the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any extra data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a quick preliminary assessment for commonly abused drugs. Although screening is economical and often rules out drug usage for most samples, any positive screen requires further confirmation to be valid in legal contexts. Thus, samples presumed positive in Screening must undergo an additional confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive in Screening, more hair is taken from the initial sample and set for Extraction. During this step, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or oral fluids, which makes hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation for any positive screening result is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: These tests are often called "hair follicle tests", but they analyze the hair strand, not the scalp's hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Cedar Glen, CA
In the realm of drug testing in Cedar Glen, hair follicle methods are recognized for surpassing traditional urine tests. Hair testing boasts a broader detection range, which captures a person's substance history in a more comprehensive manner. Employers appreciate this level of detail, which is critical when accuracy and reliability are prime concerns, as false negatives are minimized compared to urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Cedar Glen, CA
A standout feature of hair follicle tests in Cedar Glen is their extended detection period. This form of testing can reveal drug use over a 90-day span, offering employers significant insights into an applicant's or employee's past. Such a lengthy timeframe provides a broader view of substance habits, aiding companies in making well-informed staffing decisions for the long-term welfare of their workforce.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Cedar Glen, CA
Hair follicle drug testing in Cedar Glen offers unparalleled protection against sample tampering. Due to the nature of the specimen and the stringent collection processes, the likelihood of adulteration is vastly reduced. This ensures results remain authentic and unquestionable, crucial for maintaining trust in crucial testing situations, whether for legal, employment, or personal purposes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Cedar Glen, CA
Whether in Cedar Glen or elsewhere, the availability of convenient hair follicle testing centers is assured. Our extensive network of nationwide facilities allows for easy access to testing services. This widespread reach guarantees that individuals and companies can undertake tests quickly and hassle-free, underscoring our commitment to meeting users where they need us most—locally.
Simple, Confidential Process in Cedar Glen, CA
For those concerned about privacy, Cedar Glen offers a simple and confidential process for hair follicle testing. From ordering to receiving results, each step prioritizes ease and discretion, alleviating worries regarding user data. This assures individuals of a secure experience and empowers them to act confidently, knowing their information remains private throughout the testing journey.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Cedar Glen, CA
Hair follicle testing in Cedar Glen not only ensures timely results but does so at competitive prices. With efficient processes, clients benefit from a rapid turnaround, making us a cost-effective choice for businesses of all sizes. This accessibility fosters peace of mind for employers seeking to maximize value without compromising on the quality and speed of drug testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Cedar Glen, CA
In Cedar Glen, individuals and companies value quick and precise results. Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their accuracy in detecting substances efficiently. The precision of these tests ensures that users can trust in the results, offering a distinct advantage over other methods. Whether for personal knowledge or workplace compliance, these tests deliver reliable insights rapidly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Cedar Glen, CA
Utilizing hair follicle tests in Cedar Glen assures compliance with workplace drug policies, reducing the risk of infractions and enhancing the safety of the professional environment. Employers gain peace of mind knowing that testing aligns with legal requirements, safeguarding their operations and fostering a workplace culture of safety and trust, free from substances.
