Accredited Drug Testing offers comprehensive hair follicle drug testing services in Upper Lake, California. Our expertise in hair drug and alcohol tests spans nationwide, with centers available in various cities for hair screening. Typically, a sample from the crown of the head, or an alternative body location if necessary, is required. Hair analyses can include drugs, alcohol/ETG, or other bespoke testing options.
Lately, there has been a trend in implementing hair follicle drug testing more frequently. Various employers, judicial systems, and substance abuse counselors mandate hair tests rather than conventional urine analyses. With zero-tolerance policies, the longer detection period of hair tests, up to 90 days, makes them formidable and difficult to manipulate. For drug use assessed within the last five days, a urine test is still considered more precise.
* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center. You must bring a valid government issued ID along with the registration/barcode number which was sent to you by email.
When you're searching for hair drug testing near me or hair drug testing locations, we provide a simple and convenient process to find a drug and alcohol testing location near you that is certified to provide all of your drug and alcohol testing needs.
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers, hair provides an extensive historical record of substance use. A sample taken near the scalp can reveal drug and alcohol use within roughly a 3-month period. The process for collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and facilitates convenient shipping.
A hair segment measuring 1.5 inches containing roughly 200 strands (around the width of a #2 pencil) and near the scalp produces 100mg, which is optimal for initial screening and follow-up confirmation. When conducting EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is suggested. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable quantity from body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" includes types such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The four crucial stages in processing a lab drug test result consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample initially enters the laboratory’s system. This step ensures proper sealing and shipping, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data entry that lacks an electronic chain of custody connection.
Screening serves as a preliminary examination for drugs of abuse. Although cost-effective for eliminating drug presence in most samples, a positive Screening result requires subsequent confirmation for legal validity. Any samples with presumptive positives from Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
Upon detecting a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is drawn from the original sample for the Extraction stage. Here, the drug content is extracted from hair in significantly lower concentrations compared to methodologies like urine or oral fluid analysis. This aspect contributes to hair drug testing being the most challenging technique to execute.
The Confirmation phase for positive Screening outcomes is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS processes. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process is reviewed following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the standards set by ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests," the test evaluates the hair strand itself, and not the underlying hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Upper Lake, CA
When comparing hair testing to traditional urine tests, the advantages of hair analysis become apparent. Hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair samples are less susceptible to adulteration, providing more dependable results and portraying a longer history of substance use.
Extended Detection Window in Upper Lake, CA
Hair follicle testing in Upper Lake stands out for its extended detection period, recognizing drug use for up to 90 days. This far exceeds the window that urine tests cover, granting employers a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history, aiding in making informed hiring or monitoring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Upper Lake, CA
The reliability of hair follicle testing in Upper Lake largely stems from its resistance to tampering. Unlike other methods that may be easily adulterated, hair analysis remains steadfast, ensuring the integrity of the sample. This characteristic assures stakeholders of the test's uncompromised and rigorous conclusions.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Upper Lake, CA
Upper Lake residents benefit from our broad network of testing facilities spread across the nation, offering seamless access to our services. Testing is rendered simple, quick, and free of complications, enabling individuals and businesses to address their testing needs without unnecessary delay.
Simple, Confidential Process in Upper Lake, CA
Ordering and executing tests in Upper Lake is straightforward and discreet. The process—from initial request to results receipt—ensures your privacy at every step. Our commitment to confidentiality provides comfort and confidence in our service, respecting personal and organizational privacy concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Upper Lake, CA
Our competitive pricing structures paired with rapid result times offer companies excellent value. Whether you are a large corporation or a smaller business, there's assurance in knowing that affordability and swift processing remain a priority without compromising quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Upper Lake, CA
Hair follicle testing in Upper Lake provides one of the fastest and most precise drug detection methods available. With a high level of accuracy, these tests quickly identify substances, ensuring reliable and trustworthy results. This accuracy is crucial for organizations seeking quick and dependable answers for substance use concerns.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Upper Lake, CA
Utilizing hair follicle testing in the workplace ensures alignment with drug-free policies, alleviating legal concerns and bolstering safety. Employers can confidently rely on the comprehensive results to mitigate risks and maintain compliance, fostering a secure work environment.
