Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now viewed as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a detailed history of alcohol and drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. By collecting hair near the scalp, it is feasible to detect alcohol and drugs for around a 90-day period. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section, consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, will provide 100mg of hair, an ideal sample for both preliminary and confirmatory testing. For EtG, additional tests, and tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. It’s advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair isn't accessible, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. By head hair, we mean only scalp hair, while body hair refers to all other types of hair (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in processing a drug test result in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of the initial handling of a sample within a laboratory's framework. This step involves checking that the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not provided by an electronic tracking system.
Screening involves an initial evaluation for drugs commonly abused. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result must be verified for legal acceptability. Any sample presumed positive during Screening requires an additional confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, more hair is taken from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing a challenging procedure.
Confirmation of any positive Screening results is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS technologies. All samples thought to be positive undergo washing as required before confirmation. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and holds accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", this test evaluates the hair strand and not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Wheeler Springs, CA
Hair testing offers significant advantages over traditional urine testing. Its superior detection accuracy and reliability make it the preferred choice for many testing scenarios. Unlike urine tests, hair follicle testing provides a longer detection window, offering comprehensive insights into an individual's substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Wheeler Springs, CA
One of the key benefits of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over an extended period. With a detection window of up to 90 days, employers gain a thorough understanding of an employee's substance use history, crucial for maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Wheeler Springs, CA
The hair follicle testing method significantly reduces the risk of tampering with samples. This reliability ensures that results remain unquestionable, providing peace of mind and trust in the testing process. This method curbs the possibilities of adulteration often associated with other testing processes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Wheeler Springs, CA
With testing centers nationwide, including Wheeler Springs, CA, our locations offer quick and hassle-free access to drug testing services. This convenience ensures testing is accessible to everyone, minimizing logistical challenges and streamlining the process for all involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Wheeler Springs, CA
The process for ordering and conducting tests is simple and confidential, from start to finish. Privacy concerns are addressed and ensured at each stage, making the testing process easy and convenient while maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Wheeler Springs, CA
Our competitive pricing structures and rapid turnaround times provide an excellent balance of value and efficiency. Companies of all sizes benefit from these measures, ensuring budget-friendly options without compromising on the quality or speed of drug testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Wheeler Springs, CA
Hair follicle drug tests deliver quick and precise results, ensuring a high level of accuracy when detecting substance use. The data collected provides reliable information, making hair testing a trustworthy method for screening. Testing efficiency means results are timely, supporting efficient decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Wheeler Springs, CA
Hair follicle testing assists employers in adhering to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks, and enhancing safety. This compliance brings peace of mind, knowing that potential infractions are being proactively managed. It fortifies a culture of accountability and safety at work.
