Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair offers nearly a 3-month window of detection for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient for transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (resembling the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, extensions, or analysis requiring more than 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. The sample should ideally be weighed on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable volume of body hair can be obtained. The term "head hair" specifically pertains to scalp hair. "Body hair" covers all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab processing of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary introduction of a specimen into the lab's system. This step checks if the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any further data required not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is economical in eliminating drug use for the bulk of samples, any positive outcome requires confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples deemed presumptively positive in Screening necessitate further validation.
If a sample yields a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction process. This stage extracts drugs from hair at lower concentrations compared to alternatives (like urine or oral fluid), underlining the complexity of hair drug analysis.
Positive outcomes from Screening are verified using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. All presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests", the examination actually focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Lockeford, CA, hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine screening with unmatched detection accuracy. Hair tests cover a broader period, offering a full-spectrum insight into an individual's drug use.
Unlike urine tests, which are susceptible to recent intake only, hair tests can identify long-term substance use patterns, adding depth and reliability to the screening process.
Hair testing provides an extended detection window in Lockeford, CA. Capable of detecting drug use up to 90 days, it presents a more comprehensive view of a subject's substance history than other tests.
This extensive timeframe helps employers ensure that their workforce maintains consistent drug-free conduct over significant periods.
Hair follicle tests minimize tampering risks in Lockeford, CA. The likelihood of altering or adulterating samples is significantly reduced, offering reliable outcomes.
By employing a physically-observed collection process, hair follicle testing ensures integrity and accuracy, deterring any attempts to manipulate results.
With convenient testing locations nationwide and locally in Lockeford, CA, Accredited Drug Testing ensures easy access to services.
Our widespread network facilitates quick and hassle-free scheduling, offering expedient testing solutions wherever needed.
Accredited Drug Testing in Lockeford, CA ensures a simple and confidential drug testing process. From order to result, privacy concerns are addressed with diligence.
Our straightforward procedure makes it easy for clients to receive their results without compromising on confidentiality or efficiency.
Our Lockeford, CA location offers competitive pricing for hair follicle tests, providing a cost-effective option without compromising on quality.
Speedy processing results in quick turnaround times, ensuring organizations of all sizes can enjoy excellent value and peace of mind.
In Lockeford, CA, hair follicle tests excel in precision and reliability. Their ability to detect drugs with high accuracy provides a reliable solution for those seeking trustworthy results.
Besides, the rapid processing of hair follicle samples ensures timely results, eliminating long waiting periods associated with other testing methods.
Employers in Lockeford, CA benefit from hair follicle testing through assured compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This reduces legal risks and fortifies workplace safety.
Utilizing hair testing fosters peace of mind for employers, confirming thorough adherence to their policies and procedures.
