Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for uncovering drug and alcohol use. Hair retains a historical record of alcohol and drug exposure by ensnaring biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When cut near the scalp, hair can reveal patterns of alcohol and drug use for a period extending up to roughly three months. It is straightforward to collect, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to send.
A segment measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 hairs (approximating the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is optimal for testing and confirmation. For EtG tests, additional analyses, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It's suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a comparable quantity of body hair may be gathered. The term "head hair" specifically denotes scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab analysis of a drug test follows four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial intake of a sample into the lab's systems. Activities include checking that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any required data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for substance misuse. Though Screening is a cost-efficient approach to dismiss drug use for many samples, a positive result in Screening necessitates confirmation for legal validity. Any samples with presumptive positive results in Screening need additional verification.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, further hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. Here, chemicals are removed from the hair at a concentration much lower than that of other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is the most complex method to execute.
Verification of any positive screening outcome is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before Confirmation as necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 benchmarks.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", these tests actually analyze the hair strands rather than follicles beneath the skin.
Why Choose Hair Follicle Testing Over Urine Tests in Fairhaven, CA?
Hair follicle tests provide greater detection accuracy compared to urine tests. The extended detection period of up to 90 days presents a thorough evaluation of drug use history, significantly surpassing the limited window of urine tests.
Moreover, hair testing is less invasive, ensuring a secure and reliable sample collection process. Traditional urine tests are prone to tampering and evasive techniques, diminishing their reliability.
The Extended Detection Window Advantage in Fairhaven, CA
Hair follicle testing offers an unparalleled detection window, tracing drug use for as long as 90 days. This extensive period surpasses the capabilities of urine tests, providing a comprehensive perspective on substance use.
Employers benefit from this by gaining insight into long-term substance habits, which is invaluable for sensitive industries where safety is of utmost importance.
Securing Reliable Results with Hair Follicle Testing in Fairhaven, CA
One of the exceptional benefits of hair follicle testing lies in its resistance to tampering. The method substantially reduces the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring the integrity of results.
The observed collection procedure further adds a layer of assurance, making hair testing a trusted choice among employers and legal entities needing credible data.
Convenience with Nationwide Testing Locations in Fairhaven, CA
Accredited Drug Testing offers a network of testing centers nationwide, including local access in Fairhaven, CA. This wide reach ensures easy access to testing services, minimizing inconvenience.
The strategic locations facilitate quick and efficient drug testing, alleviating logistical challenges for employers and individuals alike.
A Simple and Confidential Testing Process in Fairhaven, CA
Our testing process in Fairhaven is straightforward and respects privacy at every step. From ordering to receiving results, each stage prioritizes confidentiality, ensuring that personal data remains secure.
We understand the sensitivity surrounding drug testing, and our procedures are designed to provide peace of mind, ensuring client comfort throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Fairhaven, CA
With competitive pricing structures, hair follicle testing in Fairhaven offers excellent value. Our services are aligned with providing swift turnaround times, ensuring businesses can make informed decisions rapidly.
We cater to companies of all sizes, ensuring that testing services are accessible without compromising on quality or budget.
Fast, Reliable, and Accurate Results in Fairhaven, CA
Hair follicle tests are known for their precision when it comes to detecting substances. Their ability to deliver accurate results quickly makes them the go-to choice for many. From the moment the sample is collected, results are processed with accuracy at the forefront.
This streamlined process ensures rapid results, allowing for prompt decisions, which is crucial for industries with zero-tolerance policies.
Ensuring Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Using hair follicle testing enables employers in Fairhaven to comply with drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal liabilities and fostering a safe working environment.
The rigorous nature of these tests supports employers in upholding their zero-tolerance policies effectively, ensuring both company integrity and employee accountability.
