Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a compelling method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a long-term record of substance use by encasing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When hair samples are taken close to the scalp, they can reveal drug use over a period of up to around three months. Hair samples are straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample, approximately comprising 200 hairs (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precise weighing of the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent volume of body hair might be used. 'Head hair' refers specifically to scalp hair in this context, whereas 'body hair' encompasses all other types, such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of drug test results encompasses four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial incorporation of a sample into the laboratory system. This phase involves confirming proper sealing and shipping of the sample, generating a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any supplemental data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as a swift preliminary assessment for drug abuse. While it is a cost-efficient method for dismissing drug use in most samples, a positive screen result must undergo confirmation to hold up in legal proceedings. Any samples that test as presumptively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
For samples that show presumptive positive results in Screening, additional hair from the original sample is extracted and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drug substances are drawn out from hair at much lower concentrations than those found in alternatives like urine or oral fluid testing, contributing to the complexity of hair drug screening.
Any positive Screening finding undergoes Confirmation through techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive specimens are washed before confirmation as needed. The entire process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is subject to review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often termed "hair follicle tests," these assessments examine the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in San Juan Bautista, CA
The precision of hair follicle testing offers several advantages over traditional urine tests. Not only does it ensure reliable detection and minimizes the potential for inaccurate results, but it also provides a broader window of detection.
Unlike urine tests, which can be tampered with, hair follicle testing delivers superior accuracy. This is a profound tool for employers in maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Extended Detection Window in San Juan Bautista, CA
With the ability to detect drug use up to 90 days prior, hair follicle testing provides an extensive overview of an individual's substance history. This comprehensive insight is invaluable to employers.
Such an extended detection period ensures that employers receive a holistic view, addressing concerns that short-term tests cannot.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in San Juan Bautista, CA
The integrity of hair follicle testing lies in its tamper-resistant nature, drastically reducing the chances of sample manipulation and guaranteeing authentic results.
This method’s resistance to alteration ensures trust in the testing process, making it a preferred choice among professionals seeking reliable outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in San Juan Bautista, CA
Our testing centers are strategically placed nationwide, including in San Juan Bautista, ensuring seamless access to our services.
This extensive network facilitates easy, hassle-free testing services, enhancing convenience for our clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in San Juan Bautista, CA
We pride ourselves on a transparent process, ensuring ease from order to result delivery. Our protocol maintains confidentiality, crucial for users concerned with privacy.
The streamlined approach facilitates a stress-free experience, addressing common concerns associated with drug testing.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in San Juan Bautista, CA
Our services feature competitive pricing, providing excellent value for businesses of all sizes. The rapid turnaround times further enhance the appeal of our offerings.
Prompt processing and reasonable rates underline our commitment to customer satisfaction, making our services accessible and effective.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in San Juan Bautista, CA
Hair follicle drug tests offer rapid and precise results, significantly enhancing their credibility. This testing method boasts high accuracy, allowing detection of substance use efficiently.
These timely results allow those involved to make informed decisions swiftly, reinforcing the dependability of the hair testing process in various professional environments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in San Juan Bautista, CA
Hair follicle testing is pivotal in upholding drug-free policies, minimizing legal vulnerabilities, and boosting workplace safety. Employers value this compliance tool.
By ensuring adherence to regulations, this testing fosters a secure working environment, eliminating potential risks associated with drug use.
