Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessments have become recognized as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair strands offer an extended timeline of alcohol and drug absorption by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair shaft. When clipped close to the scalp, hair can reveal up to a nearly 90-day detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is uncomplicated, comparatively hard to tamper with, and convenient for transportation.
A lock of 200 individual strands, around 1.5 inches in length (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, deemed the optimal amount for evaluations and confirmations. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or examinations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the substance is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair is not accessible, a similar quantity of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" specifically denotes scalp hair. Conversely, "body hair" pertains to all other types (beard, armpit, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug test result laboratory workflow consists of four pivotal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the preliminary processing of a sample within a laboratory’s database. This step ensures the sample was appropriately sealed and dispatched, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes additional data entry that may not be covered by an electronic custody tracking system.
Screening involves an initial swift appraisal for substance abuse. Although Screening serves as a cost-efficient approach to eliminate drug usage for most samples, court-admissible results require confirmation following a positive screen. Samples indicating presumptive positives during Screening demand secondary confirmation.
Upon a Screening stage presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at substantially lower concentrations than other test methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), presenting a greater challenge in conducting hair drug screenings.
Confirmation of any screening result yielding positive is accomplished via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive specimens undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis examines the hair shaft rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in North Coastal, CA
Among the superior benefits of hair testing over traditional urine tests is its ability to detect drugs with higher precision and consistency. Hair tests provide a longer detection timeline and more reliable results, which is crucial for employers aiming for a safe and compliant work environment in North Coastal, offering a more comprehensive solution compared to urine analysis.
Extended Detection Window in North Coastal, CA
Hair follicle testing provides an extended window of detection, stretching up to 90 days, which grants employers a thorough understanding of an individual’s substance use history. This expanded timeframe is invaluable for employers in North Coastal, CA, seeking substantial insight into the behavior of applicants or current employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in North Coastal, CA
The hair follicle testing method significantly minimizes the risk of sample tampering. By offering a test that's nearly impervious to adulteration, North Coastal, CA, organizations receive outcomes they can trust. The integrity of hair samples ensures that the results are unquestionable, bolstering confidence in the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in North Coastal, CA
Our network of testing centers across the nation guarantees convenience and accessibility. Residents of North Coastal, CA, enjoy prompt and effortless access to hair follicle testing, ensuring a swift, straightforward, and uncomplicated experience for all involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in North Coastal, CA
The hair follicle testing process is straightforward and respects client confidentiality. In North Coastal, CA, the procedure for ordering, conducting, and obtaining results is designed to be user-friendly and privacy-focused, addressing all concerns about the ease and discretion of the testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in North Coastal, CA
Competitive pricing schemes and rapid result delivery make hair follicle testing in North Coastal, CA, an excellent option for businesses. These factors combine to offer exceptional value and security for companies seeking cost-effective and timely drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in North Coastal, CA
Hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision in determining substance use. Known for their high accuracy, these tests provide swift and dependable outcomes. Utilized in the North Coastal area of California, they ensure quick insight into drug consumption, reinforcing their reputation for reliability among professionals seeking fast and trustworthy results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in North Coastal, CA
Implementing hair follicle testing not only assures compliance with drug-free workplace policies but also minimizes legal liabilities. Employers in North Coastal, CA benefit from the peace of mind that comes with enhanced workplace safety and legal alignment, ensuring a secure and healthy work environment.
