Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term evidence of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. If taken near the scalp, hair can reveal substances used as far back as around three months. It's straightforward to collect, not easily tampered with, and convenient to transport.
A sample size of 1.5 inches consisting of about 200 hair strands (approximating the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for analysis and verification. For EtG tests, add-ons, and screenings beyond 10 panels, a specimen size of 150mg is advised. Use a jeweler’s scale for accurate weighing of the hair. If scalp hair isn't an option, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" exclusively means scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types like facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The drug testing lab process comprises four core stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the sample's initial entry into the lab’s processing system. This involves checking the sample’s seal and shipment, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data not provided by an eCCF (electronic chain of custody form).
Screening delivers an initial fast assessment for drugs of abuse. While it's a cost-efficient approach to dismiss drug usage for most samples, a positive screening outcome must be confirmed to hold legal validity. Any presumptively positive screenings necessitate secondary verification.
If a sample is deemed presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair from the initial collection is utilized for Extraction. Here, drug extraction from hair occurs at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair testing the most challenging method to execute.
Positive screening results require Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation, as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process is conducted under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", this analysis actually examines the hair strand itself, not the scalp's hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Las Lomas, CA
Hair follicle testing surpasses urine tests mainly due to its higher precision and longer detection window. Unlike urine tests, which are good for short-term detection, hair testing can screen for drug use over an extended period, making it a more reliable method for employers, probation officers, and courts seeking trustworthy results.
Extended Detection Window in Las Lomas, CA
The notable advantage of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use up to 90 days prior. This expanded window is critical for employers in Las Lomas looking for a thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history, providing much-needed insights into potential drug habits over a longer span.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Las Lomas, CA
Hair follicle drug tests are robust against tampering attempts, ensuring accurate and indisputable results. This testing method significantly lessens the risk of sample adulteration, providing peace of mind that the results are trustworthy. Las Lomas facilities employ rigorous standards to maintain the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Las Lomas, CA
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including Las Lomas, offers convenient access to drug testing services. This setup ensures quick and hassle-free testing procedures, allowing individuals and businesses alike to proceed with minimal disruption to their daily schedules.
Simple, Confidential Process in Las Lomas, CA
Our testing process is straightforward and keeps confidentiality at the forefront, easing concerns regarding privacy. Ordering, undergoing, and receiving results is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring a seamless experience for those needing hair follicle testing services in Las Lomas.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Las Lomas, CA
Our competitive pricing model combined with swift result delivery offers superb value for companies of varying sizes in Las Lomas. The expedited turnaround time for hair follicle drug tests guarantees minimal waiting, helping businesses make informed decisions promptly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Las Lomas, CA
Hair follicle drug testing stands out for its precision and swiftness. These tests are renowned for their unparalleled accuracy in detecting substance use, offering an excellent option for ensuring compliance with substance policies in Las Lomas. Rapid and dependable results have made this method highly preferable among different testing choices.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Las Lomas, CA
Implementing hair follicle testing within the workplace ensures adherence to drug-free policies, minimizes legal repercussions, and enhances security. For Las Lomas employers, this method is instrumental in fostering a safe working environment and ensuring that staff follows any necessary regulations effectively.
