Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for detecting substance use. Hair captures long-term drug and alcohol usage by embedding biomarkers within its growing strands. Collected near the scalp, hair samples can reveal alcohol and drug usage for up to three months. Hair is easy to collect, resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) cut close to the scalp, yields about 100mg, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, as well as tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler's scale for accuracy is recommended. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used instead. When discussing head hair in this context, the focus is on scalp hair only, whereas body hair encompasses all other types, like facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The key stages in processing a drug test in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of integrating a sample into the lab's system. It involves checking that the sample is properly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional necessary data input not available through an electronic chain of custody.
Screening acts as a preliminary check for substance abuse. While it's an economical approach for excluding drug consumption in most samples, a confirmed positive screen is needed for legal acceptability. Samples yielding presumptive positives in Screening require subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample show a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is retrieved from the original sample and prepared for the Extraction stage. Here, it's tested at much lower concentrations compared to methods like urine or saliva, contributing to hair screening's complexity.
Confirmation of any positive screening results is achieved via techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Pre-confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing if necessary. The whole laboratory procedure, spanning from Accessioning to Confirmation, is conducted under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and aligned with ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests", the testing focuses on analyzing the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Outperforms Urine Testing in Escalon, CA
Hair drug testing offers superior detection over urine tests, with the ability to identify various substances used over a longer period. This method's precision and reliability far surpass traditional urine tests, making it a preferred choice for employers with stringent drug-free policies.
The advantage lies in its extensive detection window, ensuring a thorough review of substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Escalon, CA
Hair follicle testing shines with its extended detection period, capturing drug use history for up to 90 days. This capability offers employers a comprehensive assessment of an individual's substance use over a substantial time, unlike other testing methods.
This long-term perspective is invaluable for employers aiming to maintain a drug-free workplace with confidence and clarity.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Escalon, CA
Hair follicle tests greatly reduce the risk of sample tampering, providing reliable, unquestionable results. The method inherently eliminates the chance of adulteration, offering peace of mind for employers and individuals alike seeking trustworthy testing solutions.
Convenient Nationwide and Local Testing Locations in Escalon, CA
Access to testing is seamless with our numerous nationwide centers, including local Escalon sites, providing hassle-free testing experiences. Our widespread locations simplify the logistics of undergoing a drug test, ensuring accessibility and convenience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Escalon, CA
Our straightforward and private process ensures ease of use from ordering to result receipt. Privacy concerns are addressed effectively, maintaining confidentiality and simplicity throughout the entire testing journey in Escalon, CA.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Escalon, CA
Our hair follicle testing service offers competitive pricing paired with rapid turnaround times, delivering remarkable value to businesses. Regardless of company size, our affordable testing solutions provide peace of mind and economic benefits.
In Escalon, CA, hair follicle drug tests offer fast, accurate, and reliable results. Their precision in substance detection is unmatched, providing high accuracy in identifying drug and alcohol use. The advanced testing methods ensure rapid results delivery, making it a trustworthy option for employers and individuals alike.
These tests are conducted swiftly, enabling companies to make informed decisions quickly, which is crucial in maintaining workplace safety and compliance.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Escalon, CA
Employers benefit from hair follicle testing's assurance of compliance with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks while enhancing safety. This test method safeguards against possible substance use infractions, promoting a safe and compliant work environment.
