Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
An effective approach for detecting drug and alcohol consumption is hair testing. This method offers a comprehensive timeline of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair shaft. If obtained near the scalp, the sample can reveal a usage history for substances extending to a period of roughly three months. Hair sample collection is straightforward, tamper-resistant, and convenient for transport.
A suggested sample of 1.5 inches, equating to about 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil), is ideal near the scalp to yield 100mg of hair—optimal for both initial and confirmatory testing. For testing involving EtG, additional markers, or over 10-panel screens, a 150mg sample is advised. Use of a jeweler’s scale for accurate measurement is recommended. If scalp hair is not available, body hair in equivalent quantity can be substituted. Head hair specifically denotes scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis for drug testing follows four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In the Accessioning phase, the sample is first processed into the lab’s records, ensuring that it was sealed and transported correctly, a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) is given, and supplementary data entry is finalized if not covered by an electronic chain of custody, is completed.
During the Screening phase, an expedited evaluation for drugs is conducted. While cost-effective, a positive result must be validated for legal admissibility. Samples that show an initial positive result in Screening require subsequent confirmation.
Should a specimen be positive in Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction, whereby drugs are isolated at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or saliva, highlighting hair drug screening's complexity.
Any positive screen reactions are validated through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All positive samples are cleansed before confirmation if needed. The process is thoroughly reviewed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests", the evaluation targets the hair strand, not the sub-scalp follicle.
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, it's clear that hair testing excels in Valley Springs, CA, offering superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing captures a long detection timeline of up to 90 days, while urine tests provide a more limited view. This extended detection offers employers a robust and dependable measure for evaluating substance use.
Hair follicle testing in Valley Springs, CA, offers an extended detection window, spanning up to 90 days. This duration is invaluable for employers who require a comprehensive substance history of employees or applicants. Unlike other testing methods, hair tests provide an in-depth analysis, crucial for maintaining a drug-free workplace environment.
With its tamper-resistant nature, hair follicle testing in Valley Springs, CA, significantly diminishes the chance of sample adulteration. This method yields results that are both reliable and indisputable, assuring employers of the accuracy of the testing process. Such assurance is paramount in supporting stringent drug-free workplace policies.
With an extensive network of nationwide testing locations, including those in Valley Springs, CA, we ensure convenient access to our services. Our testing centers are strategically placed to provide easy, quick, and hassle-free service, catering to the needs of individuals and businesses alike, ensuring a seamless testing experience.
The process for hair follicle testing in Valley Springs, CA, is designed to be simple and confidential. Ordering, testing and receiving results are streamlined to respect the privacy and ease of our clients. This ensures that concerns over confidentiality and complexity are addressed, enhancing user experience.
Valley Springs, CA benefits from our competitive pricing and fast turnaround. Our hair follicle tests offer excellent value, catering to businesses of all sizes while ensuring the prompt delivery of results. This affordability and efficiency provide companies with peace of mind and consistent quality assurance.
In Valley Springs, CA, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their blend of precision, speed, and reliability. The inherent accuracy of these tests empowers swift detection of substance use, pinpointing violations of drug use policies effectively. Employers and individuals trust these tests for their credibility and the assurance they provide in potential drug use scenarios.
Employers in Valley Springs, CA, gain peace of mind with hair follicle testing, ensuring compliance with workplace drug-free policies. By adopting this reliable testing method, legal risks are reduced, and workplace safety is enhanced, contributing to a secure and productive organizational environment.
