Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Murrieta, CA

What it is, How it works

Hair assessments have emerged as a substantial method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a long-term record of alcohol and drugs by capturing markers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer up to around a 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and substances. It is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and validation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advisable. We recommend employing a jeweler’s scale for weighting the specimen. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount of body hair may be used. In reference to head hair, this implies only scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four critical stages in laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into a lab’s framework. This involves ascertaining that the sample was securely sealed and transported, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data input not supplied by an electronic chain of custody setup.

Screening is a preliminary rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to discount drug use in the bulk of samples, a positive screen requires validation to be legally acceptable. Any samples indicated as positive in Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.

If a positive result is implied during the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. During this process, drugs are withdrawn from hair at much lower concentrations than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies.

Validation of any positive screening outcome is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive undergo a cleansing prior to confirmation, as required. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is subjected to review under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug assays can trace drug use up to 90 days, in contrast to urine analyses which have a shorter detection period.
• Resilient to tampering: Cheating on a hair drug test is remarkably challenging, rendering the outcomes more reliable.
• Offers historical insight: It can reveal patterns of drug use over time, rather than just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Incapable of detecting recent use: It requires roughly 5-7 days for drugs to become traceable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug testing is generally pricier than alternative drug screening methods.
• Result variability: Factors such as hair color and personal variations in hair growth can influence the level of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: Although frequently termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis scrutinizes the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Murrieta, CA
When comparing drug detection methodologies, hair follicle tests offer distinct advantages. They provide superior detection accuracy over traditional urine tests. By assessing substance use over a prolonged period, these tests are more reliable and harder to evade, giving employers enhanced confidence in the results.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Murrieta, CA
One of the major advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged period, stretching up to 90 days. This extended window allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance behavior, providing greater assurance and enabling informed decision-making.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Murrieta, CA
Hair follicle tests significantly reduce risks of sample tampering. Unlike other testing methods, altering a hair sample is nearly impossible, offering reliable and indisputable results. This method enhances confidence among users, as it upholds the integrity of the testing process while minimizing concerns of adulteration.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Murrieta, CA
Accredited Drug Testing offers nationwide testing centers and local services in Murrieta, CA, providing quick and hassle-free access to drug testing facilities. Our locations facilitate easy scheduling, ensuring that clients can obtain the necessary tests promptly and efficiently, without disrupting their daily routines.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Murrieta, CA
The process for hair follicle testing is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering the test to collecting samples and receiving results, we ensure privacy and efficiency. This seamless approach addresses any privacy concerns, offering users an easy and stress-free testing experience.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Murrieta, CA
Our commitment to competitive pricing is matched by our swift processing times, providing great value for organizations of all sizes. With a quick turnaround on test results, employers can swiftly make informed decisions, benefiting from our dedication to cost-effectiveness and reliability.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Murrieta, CA, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and speed. Unlike traditional methods, they offer a high level of accuracy, effectively identifying substance use across a long timeframe. The efficiency of hair testing ensures fast, reliable results, making it a preferred choice for both individuals and organizations seeking trustworthy screening processes.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Murrieta, CA
By implementing hair follicle testing, employers can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This method minimizes legal risks and boosts workplace safety, offering peace of mind and reducing liability. The comprehensive nature of hair follicle tests supports employers in maintaining a secure and compliant work environment.

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