Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol ingestion. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and other substances by encasing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When gathered near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to gather, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil width) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and verification. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It's suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair can't be accessed, a comparable quantity of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair; "body hair" pertains to all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The testing of a drug sample is comprised of four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning concerns the initial handling of a specimen into a laboratory's database. This step involves confirming that the specimen was appropriately sealed and dispatched, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any remaining data entry not included within an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening pertains to an initial rapid evaluation for substances. Although Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use in most instances, a positive result must be verified for court admissibility. Any specimens that appear positive in Screening necessitate subsequent confirmation.
If a specimen is tentatively positive during Screening, additional hair is chosen from the original sample and readied for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at far lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging method to execute.
Verification of any positively screened outcome is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumed positive specimens are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the credentials to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often named "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sierra, CA
In Sierra, CA, hair follicle testing provides superior benefits compared to traditional urine tests. For one, the hair test offers a remarkable detection period, extending up to 90 days, far surpassing the limited timeframe of urine tests. Moreover, the accuracy and reliability of hair testing significantly reduce the chances of cheating, ensuring a more accurate assessment.
Extended Detection Window in Sierra, CA
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing in Sierra, CA, grants employers a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use over up to 90 days. This prolonged period captures a broader history of use, unlike other methods. Such wide-ranging detection aids in making informed decisions regarding employment and other opportunities.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sierra, CA
Hair follicle testing in Sierra, CA, inherently deters tampering, enhancing test reliability and accuracy. Attempts to adulterate samples are drastically minimized, giving the tests an edge over alternatives in safeguarding outcomes. The test’s robustness provides perspicuous results, fostering trust in its findings.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sierra, CA
Our extensive network of testing centers, including those in Sierra, CA, ensures you can access drug testing services conveniently and efficiently. This wide-reaching availability simplifies the process for individuals and businesses, removing barriers to obtaining necessary tests.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sierra, CA
In Sierra, CA, hair follicle testing promises a straightforward and discreet process for ordering and receiving results. Our method prioritizes confidentiality, addressing privacy concerns while maintaining ease of use. This approach allows you to undergo testing without undue stress or complication.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sierra, CA
Our competitive pricing model and rapid turnaround times make hair follicle testing in Sierra, CA, an attractive option for companies of varying sizes. The value offered through our services ensures that regardless of company scale, you benefit from both affordability and efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sierra, CA
Hair follicle drug tests in Sierra, CA, deliver highly accurate and swift results. This testing method excels in identifying substance use with precision, making it a preferred choice for those seeking dependable data. The efficiency of hair testing ensures rapid turnaround times, offering peace of mind to individuals and organizations alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sierra, CA
By opting for hair follicle testing, employers in Sierra, CA, ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies, easing legal concerns and boosting safety. This method’s precision aligns with compliance requirements, providing a valuable tool for mitigating risk while maintaining integrity in the workplace.
