Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extensive historical record of alcohol and other drugs by encapsulating biomarkers within the hair strand fibers during growth. Collected near the scalp, it can reveal up to a roughly 3-month period for alcohol and drug traces. Hair is easy to obtain, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, an amount of 150mg is suggested. We advise measuring the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' refers solely to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The principal phases in processing a drug test result in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the introductory processing of a sample within a lab's framework. This phase ensures the sample’s proper sealing and shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is economical for negating drug use in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation to be legally valid. Samples that test positive in Screening require secondary validation.
Should a sample test positive during Screening, extra hair is extracted from the initial sample and set for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly diminished concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug screening is a notably challenging technique.
Verification of any positive Screening outcome utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation, as necessary. The end-to-end laboratory procedure, from Accessioning through to Confirmation, is evaluated against both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair shaft, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Choose Hair Testing in Whitehawk, CA?
Superior Detection and Reliability
Hair follicle testing offers unmatched detection accuracy and reliability over traditional urine tests. With a longer detection window of up to 90 days, it captures a comprehensive substance use history, minimizing the risk of false-negative results that can occur with urine tests.
Addressing Long-term Substance Use with Hair Testing
Extended Detection Window
The ability to detect substances over a 90-day period makes hair follicle testing invaluable. Employers gain holistic insights into an applicant's or employee's substance history, essential for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace environment.
Minimizing Sample Adulteration Risks
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
Hair follicle drug tests dramatically reduce the chances of tampering, ensuring the results are reliable and indisputable. This method provides peace of mind to all stakeholders engaged, knowing the outcomes are genuine.
Effortless Access Nationwide
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations
With test sites across the country, including Whitehawk, CA, gaining access to hair follicle testing is seamless and stress-free. Businesses and individuals can expect efficient, hassle-free services near them at all times.
Simplicity and Confidentiality Guaranteed
Simple, Confidential Process
The straightforward procedure of ordering, testing, and receiving results ensures user confidentiality and convenience. In Whitehawk, CA, individuals can trust in a process that respects their privacy while delivering efficient results.
Maximizing Value and Minimizing Wait
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
Offering competitive pricing structures and rapid turnaround times, hair follicle testing provides exceptional value for businesses of all sizes in Whitehawk, CA. This approach ensures peace of mind without compromising on efficiency.
In Whitehawk, CA, hair follicle tests are celebrated for their swift, precise, and reliable results. These tests excel in accurately identifying substance use, often providing clarity that enhances decision-making processes for employers and authorities alike.
Speed of Results
The proficiency of hair testing allows for not only timely analysis but also accuracy that surpasses traditional methods. Accuracy in each step ensures confidence in results, vital for sensitive situations where precision is crucial.
Ensuring Compliance and Enhancing Safety
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Employers in Whitehawk, CA, can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies using hair testing. This not only reduces the potential for legal issues but also promotes a safer and more productive work environment.