Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as a formidable method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by encapsulating biomarkers within the filaments of the emerging hair strand. When procured near the scalp, hair can deliver up to an estimated three-month detection period for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easily transported.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for testing and validation. For EtG enhancements, and/or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If hair from the scalp is inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be gathered. When referring to head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Outline of Procedure
The four central phases in the laboratory management of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into a lab’s framework. This step checks if the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigns an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening executes a preliminary rapid examination for drugs of misuse. Though Screening offers a budget-friendly method to rule out drug usage in most samples, a confirmed positive screen is necessary for court acceptance. Samples with a presumptively positive Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, further hair is extracted from the original specimen and readied for Extraction. At this stage, substances are isolated from hair at a significantly reduced concentration compared to alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening uniquely challenging.
Confirmation of any positive Screening is accomplished through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples are cleaned as required. The entire series of laboratory steps from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", this examination scrutinizes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Winchester, CA
Hair follicle tests provide a clearer and more accurate assessment compared to traditional urine tests. Not only do they offer a broader window of detection, but they also enhance reliability by minimizing chances of sample tampering. This ensures more consistent results, providing employers and courts with the tools needed to maintain a drug-free environment effectively.
Extended Detection Window in Winchester, CA
The ability of hair follicle testing to trace drug use up to 90 days offers organizations and employers an insightful view into an individual’s substance history. This extended detection window surpasses the limited timeframe urine tests can offer, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the applicant or employee’s drug consumption habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Winchester, CA
Hair follicle tests are designed to be tamper-resistant, significantly lowering the chances of adulteration or manipulation of samples. This level of integrity in testing ensures the results are both reliable and unquestionable, providing comprehensive assurances to employers and testing authorities alike.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Winchester, CA
Our strategically positioned testing centers nationwide, including those in Winchester, offer unmatched convenience. With quick, easy access to drug testing services, employees and employers alike can benefit from the seamless experience we provide, making the whole process hassle-free and user-centric.
Simple, Confidential Process in Winchester, CA
The drug testing process we offer is straightforward and assures privacy at every step. From ordering to taking the test and receiving results, the simplicity ensures a stress-free experience. This maintains the confidentiality of individuals without compromising on accuracy or efficiency, catering to user concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Winchester, CA
Our commitment to competitive pricing combined with expedient turnaround times sets us apart, offering great value. Whether you're a small business or a large corporation, our cost-effective solutions ensure financial efficiency without compromising on the quality or speed of the results expected.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Winchester, CA
Hair follicle drug testing provides rapid and precise results. Our state-of-the-art facilities in Winchester ensure high levels of accuracy and speed in detecting various substances. The reliability of these tests makes them an excellent choice for employers seeking definitive answers. Quick turnaround times ensure peace of mind, supported by the superior accuracy of the tests.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Winchester, CA
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps employers maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies, reducing the legal risks associated with non-compliance. By fostering a safer work environment, employers benefit from the reassurance and peace of mind that comes with adherence to regulatory requirements and improved workplace safety.
