Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has become recognized as a compelling method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and substance usage by embedding biomarkers into the strands of hair as it grows. A close-to-scalp collection can provide an estimated 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
An 1.5-inch lock of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in thickness) nearest the scalp contributes 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for evaluation and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or testing beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It is advisable to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is inaccessible, the same measure of body hair can be used. When we mention head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Overview of the Procedure
The procedure for processing a drug test result in the lab consists of four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial handling of a sample within a laboratory's system. This step verifies appropriate sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any leftover data entry not integrated through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary swift inspection for abusive substances. Although Screening is a budget-friendly method to exclude drug usage in most specimens, a positive screen demands validation for courtroom admission. Samples presuming positive during Screening require additional confirmation.
If a specimen shows presumptive positivity in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are separated from hair at concentrations much lower than in alternative techniques (i.e., urine or oral fluid), thus hair drug testing presents the greatest complexity in methodology.
Confirmation for any positive Screening outcome is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Preparatory washing of all presumptive positive samples occurs before confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and accreditation according to ISO / IEC 17025 guidelines.
Merits of hair drug testing:
Constraints:
Note: Although commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the examination actually assesses the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Highlands, CA: Hair follicle tests provide a much more extended detection period compared to traditional urine tests. This method not only demonstrates superior accuracy but also elevates the reliability of drug screenings. Employers benefit from the comprehensive insights provided by hair testing, offering a dependable alternative to urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Highlands, CA: The ability of hair follicle tests to trace drug usage up to 90 days back gives employers a thorough assessment of an applicant's drug history. This extended detection period acts as a critical factor in evaluating long-term patterns and ensuring a safe and compliant workforce.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Highlands, CA: Hair follicle testing significantly minimizes the risk of sample tampering or adulteration, providing trustworthy results. The integrity of this method underscores its reliability and makes it the optimal choice for scrutinizing employee substance use with assured confidence.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Highlands, CA: Our extensive network of testing centers ensures seamless access to hair follicle testing services. Clients enjoy a quick, convenient, and stress-free experience with our nation-wide presence, making it easy to meet their testing requirements efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Highlands, CA: From the moment of order to receiving results, our process remains simple and discreet. Clients' privacy is our priority, ensuring a secure and straightforward experience that addresses all concerns regarding confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Highlands, CA: Our competitive pricing strategies and prompt delivery times offer excellent value for businesses. These aspects combined provide peace of mind and cater to companies of all sizes seeking cost-effective and rapid drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Highlands, CA: Hair follicle drug testing offers rapid results and high precision. This method is effective in detecting a wide range of substances, ensuring firms receive accurate data on employee drug use. By using advanced technology, hair tests deliver consistent and reliable results, positioning them as the superior choice for any comprehensive drug screening needs.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Highlands, CA: Implementing hair follicle testing within workplaces reinforces adherence to drug-free policies. Such measures not only mitigate legal challenges but also uplift the safety standards in a work environment, granting employers peace of mind.
