Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol intake. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use by encapsulating biomarkers within the hair's growing strands. When gathered near the scalp, hair can provide a detection window for drugs and alcohol of up to around 3 months. Hair is easy to gather, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hairs (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, or when requiring tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest weighing the sample on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (like facial hair, axillary hair, etc.).
Process Overview
The four principal stages in the laboratory processing of drug test results include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the first phase of integrating a specimen into a laboratory's system. This process ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completes any further data entry required beyond what an electronic chain of custody system provides.
Screening involves an initial, rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening offers a cost-effective means to eliminate drug use in most samples, any positive finding must be validated to be accountable in a legal setting. Samples that appear positive in Screening need further confirmation.
If a sample tests positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for preparation in Extraction. This stage extracts drugs from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies.
Confirmation of any positive screening findings is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples indicating a positive result in Screening are washed before confirmation as necessary. The laboratory process from Accessioning through Confirmation undergoes review in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In East Sierra, CA, hair follicle testing offers a strategic advantage over traditional urine tests. Unmatched Detection Accuracy makes it the preferred choice for those seeking reliable results. Unlike urine tests that, at times, fail to detect long-term substance use, hair testing delivers consistent and dependable outcomes, reducing the risk of misleading results and ensuring that individuals are accurately screened for potential drug use.
The hair follicle test in East Sierra, CA, provides an Extended Detection Window, capable of identifying drug use for an extensive duration—up to 90 days. This thorough evaluation grants employers a substantial view into an individual’s substance use over time, rather than offering a limited perspective. Such a comprehensive analysis is particularly vital for pre-employment screenings, ensuring a drug-free workplace by understanding the applicant's or employee's substance history.
Hair follicle tests conducted in East Sierra, CA, are integral due to their inherently Tamper-Resistant quality. Unlike other testing methods that may be susceptible to tampering or manipulation, the hair follicle is a reliable source that significantly minimizes the risk of adulteration. This reliability enhances the trustworthiness of the results, ensuring that the outcomes are beyond question, which is crucial for maintaining informed and fair evaluation policies.
With testing centers scattered around East Sierra, CA, and beyond, the convenience of our Nationwide Testing Locations cannot be overstated. These centers guarantee easy access to reliable drug testing services, ensuring a swift, hassle-free experience for individuals and businesses alike. This nationwide network provides the flexibility and accessibility needed for anyone seeking efficient drug testing without the burden of unnecessary travel.
In East Sierra, CA, the hair follicle testing process stands out for its Simple, Confidential Process. Designed with privacy and ease in mind, the procedure for ordering, undergoing the test, and receiving results is streamlined. Concerns about confidentiality are paramount, assuring individuals that their privacy is protected throughout the entirety of the process, making it the go-to choice for stress-free, secure testing.
Our hair follicle testing services in East Sierra, CA, deliver Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround. Competitive rates, combined with quick result times, ensure we provide excellent value for companies of all sizes. This economic approach is designed to alleviate financial concerns without compromising on quality, delivering peace of mind for businesses seeking efficient, reliable drug testing solutions at a manageable cost.
Hair follicle drug tests in East Sierra, CA, are renowned for their swift and precise outcomes. They provide highly accurate results in detecting substance use, minimizing the chance of errors.
Efficiency and Precision are the hallmarks of these tests, assuring reliable detection with speed, which is unmatched by other testing methods. This innovative approach ensures individuals and employers can trust the quick results of hair follicle tests.
In East Sierra, CA, hair follicle testing provides employers with a crucial tool for maintaining Compliance and Peace of Mind. By establishing a drug-free workplace, it reduces legal risks and fosters an environment of safety and productivity. Employers can rest assured that implementing these testing methods aligns with stringent drug policies, ensuring peace of mind as they uphold workplace standards and safeguard their business.
