Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and drug use by integrating biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of around 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is an ideal quantity for both screening and verification. For EtG, extra tests, and assays exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advised. We propose weighing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, a comparable quantity of body hair can be gathered. Reference to head hair pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary phases in the testing lab process for a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into a lab's system. This step includes verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data input not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid test for substance abuse. Although Screening is a budget-friendly method to exclude drug usage for most samples, court-admissible positive results necessitate confirmation. Any samples that test as presumptively positive during Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction preparation. This step entails drug extraction from hair at significantly lesser concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening is conducted through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo a wash before confirmation if required. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the ISO/IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently dubbed as "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
In Rio del Mar, CA, hair follicle testing stands out with its superior accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. The advanced detection capabilities of hair tests make them a preferred choice for comprehensive drug screening.
Hair tests are much harder to manipulate, offering a longer detection window that urine tests can’t match. This reliability ensures that hair testing provides employers with the confidence they need.
Extended Detection Window
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in Rio del Mar, CA, is its extended detection window. Capturing substance usage history up to 90 days, hair tests give employers insight into an applicant or employee's past drug habits.
This long-term view surpasses what's possible with urine testing, which typically only reveals recent usage. Hair testing paints a more comprehensive picture for managerial and HR decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
In Rio del Mar, CA, hair follicle tests offer a proven defense against sample tampering. Their design significantly curtails the possibilities for adulteration, ensuring test integrity.
Employers and agencies can rely on the authenticity of results from hair testing, as the process largely eliminates manipulation. This makes them a trustworthy tool in enforcing zero-tolerance policies.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations
In Rio del Mar, CA, our nationwide network of testing centers facilitates easy access to hair follicle testing services. With locations spread across the country and locally, clients can select a nearby site that suits their requirements.
This wide availability ensures the testing process is hassle-free and accessible, making it convenient for individuals and businesses alike.
Simple, Confidential Process
Our hair follicle testing process in Rio del Mar, CA, is straightforward and respects client confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, every step is designed to be transparent and respectful of privacy concerns.
Clients can have peace of mind knowing that their data is handled securely and the entire procedure is user-friendly, alleviating worries over personal privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
In Rio del Mar, CA, we're committed to providing competitive pricing and swift results for our hair follicle testing services. This balance of affordability and speed offers tremendous value to businesses of all sizes.
Fast turnaround times mean that companies receive actionable information promptly, minimizing downtime and enabling informed decision-making.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Rio del Mar, CA, hair follicle drug testing is synonymous with precision and speed. These tests boast high accuracy, ensuring substances are detected effectively. The method is tailored to meet stringent detection standards, providing results that stakeholders can trust without delay.
With prompt and accurate outcomes, individuals and organizations can make informed decisions swiftly. This testing approach minimizes waiting time while delivering reliable data, ensuring peace of mind.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures companies in Rio del Mar, CA, are compliant with drug-free workplace policies. It mitigates legal risks and fosters a safer work environment.
The reassurance provided by this testing process reduces employer anxiety. Knowing that thorough and dependable testing is in place, businesses can maintain both compliance and workplace integrity.
