Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair retains a prolonged history of alcohol and drug intake by encapsulating biomarkers within the growing hair fiber. When sampled close to the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window for drugs and alcohol of up to roughly 3 months. Hair is easy to collect, relatively resistant to tampering, and straightforward to transport.
Gathering a 1.5-inch piece of approximately 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil in thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is considered the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It is recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, a corresponding quantity of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The major steps involved in lab processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This step involves confirming that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be corroborated for it to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples that exhibit presumptive positive results in Screening must undergo a secondary confirmation.
If a sample shows presumptive positivity in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than in other methodologies (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most challenging technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed "hair follicle tests", the test essentially analyzes the strand of hair, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in San Augustine, CA
In San Augustine, hair follicle testing is proving superior to traditional urine tests in numerous ways. The primary benefit is its ability to detect drug use over a significantly extended timeframe compared to urine tests. While urine screenings offer a shorter detection window, hair tests can monitor drug intake up to 90 days.
This comprehensive detection ability of hair tests not only surpasses urine testing in terms of time frame but also enhances reliability. The results are less susceptible to external manipulation or alterations, providing a more accurate picture of an individual's substance use history, making it invaluable for various professional and legal requirements.
Extended Detection Window in San Augustine, CA
Hair follicle testing in San Augustine offers an unparalleled detection window, capable of identifying drug use over a period extending up to 90 days. This broad timespan gives employers an extensive view of an individual's substance use history, beyond the capabilities of conventional testing methods.
For employers and agencies focused on maintaining rigorous standards, the extended detection window of hair tests means gaining insight into long-term substance use. This feature is especially beneficial for roles where past substance use may have serious safety or performance implications, offering a deeper level of due diligence.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in San Augustine, CA
One of the significant advantages of hair follicle testing in San Augustine is its resistance to tampering. Unlike other testing methods, hair samples are much harder to adulterate, ensuring the integrity of the results. This robustness makes hair tests highly reliable for organizations and authorities.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing provides peace of mind, as the accurate results reflect the true usage history without the risk of interference or cheating. Businesses and legal entities can trust these results to support their policies against drug use, contributing to safer, compliant environments.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in San Augustine, CA
With a widespread network of testing centers, including locations in San Augustine, Accredited Drug Testing ensures convenient access to hair follicle testing services. Our national reach makes it easy to locate and participate in testing, minimizing disruptions and ensuring quick service.
Individuals and businesses in San Augustine benefit from the ease of access and the efficient process in our testing centers, guaranteeing a hassle-free experience. This accessibility ensures that compliance and safety standards are met without the struggle of locating an appropriate testing venue.
Simple, Confidential Process in San Augustine, CA
Accredited Drug Testing offers a simple and confidential process in San Augustine for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results. Our streamlined process addresses privacy concerns, ensuring that individuals feel secure when engaging in hair testing.
The clarity and confidentiality embedded in our testing procedures ensure participants can manage their testing needs with ease and confidence. These aspects promote trust in the service, making it an attractive option for users conscientious about the protection of their personal information.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in San Augustine, CA
Accredited Drug Testing offers cost-effective hair follicle testing services in San Augustine, paired with rapid turnaround times. Our competitive pricing structures allow organizations of all sizes to implement robust drug testing programs without financial strain.
The quick delivery of results not only enhances productivity but also provides a cost-efficient solution for comprehensive drug testing. Businesses appreciate the combination of affordability and speed, ensuring budget-conscious yet effective management of their drug testing requirements.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in San Augustine, CA
Hair follicle drug testing in San Augustine ensures rapid and accurate results. The technology used for analyzing hair samples provides a high level of precision, offering reliable insights into substance usage. With advanced detection capabilities, hair tests can quickly and effectively identify drug use, supporting individuals and organizations in making informed decisions.
The swift process involved in hair follicle testing ensures that results are obtained expeditiously, allowing employers to act promptly. This efficiency, combined with the accuracy of test outcomes, underscores the value of hair testing as a preferred method for detecting substance use, aiding in critical decision-making processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in San Augustine, CA
Hair follicle testing helps San Augustine employers ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks. By adopting this reliable testing method, organizations can maintain workplace safety and avoid potential liabilities associated with drug misuse.
Employers benefit from the peace of mind knowing that hair follicle tests deliver accurate and tamper-proof results. This reliability is crucial in building a secure and productive work environment, where employees adhere to company policies and legal standards, fostering trust and compliance.
