What it is, How it works

Utilizing hair testing has emerged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a historical record of alcohol and other drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use up to roughly a 3-month span. Hair collection is straightforward, not easily altered, and is convenient for transport.

A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches comprising about 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp equates to 100mg, which is the perfect amount for both screening and confirmation. For tests such as EtG, add-ons, and/or those beyond 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. We suggest measuring the specimen's weight using a jeweler's scale. If a person lacks scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be taken. When we mention head hair, we are specifically talking about scalp hair. Body hair encompasses any other kinds of hair (e.g., facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is concerned with initially integrating a sample into a lab's system. This process includes confirming that the sample was securely sealed and transported, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any remaining data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening refers to an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse indicators. This cost-efficient method can dismiss drug usage in most cases, but any positive screening results must undergo confirmation to be legally defensible. Samples that are tentatively positive in Screening need additional verification.

Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. During this process, drugs are obtained from hair at notably lower levels of concentration than with other methods (like urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug testing is notoriously complex.

Positive screening results are verified via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples showing presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is subjected to inspection under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and according to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Extended detection period: Hair drug testing can reveal drug consumption for as long as 90 days, unlike urine tests with briefer detection periods.
Hard to manipulate: Hair drug testing is difficult to manipulate, ensuring more reliable outcomes.
Historical insight: It offers insight into drug use patterns over time rather than just recent activities.

Limitations:

Inability to detect recent consumption: Drugs become apparent in hair approximately 5-7 days after use.
Expense: Hair drug testing usually costs more compared to other drug testing techniques.
Result variability: Hair color and personal hair growth differences can influence the drug metabolite concentration detectable in hair.

Note: The term "hair follicle tests" often misleads, as the test evaluates the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Adin, CA

In Adin, CA, hair follicle testing stands superior to the conventional urine test due to its extended accuracy and dependability. Recognized for superior detection, it outperforms urine tests by capturing a larger scope of drug use. This method also circumvents common manipulation tactics prevalent in urine testing, ensuring the results are authentic.

The hair test not only increases detection reliability but captures a broader substance history, making it beneficial for thorough assessments.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Adin, CA

Employers in Adin, CA benefit from hair follicle testing due to its unparalleled detection window, spanning up to 90 days. This extensive window offers a comprehensive perspective on an individual's substance habits. As opposed to short-term snapshots from other testing methods, hair testing provides long-term visibility into potential substance use.

This extended timeframe empowers employers to make informed decisions based on the more in-depth insights it provides.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Adin, CA

Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the risks associated with sample tampering in Adin, CA. The process involves an observed collection, making manipulation nearly impossible. In contrast to other methods, hair testing's inherent resistance to adulteration means results are both credible and reliable.

This resilience against tampering ensures that stakeholders receive accurate and trustworthy results consistently.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Adin, CA

With a network of testing centers that spans Adin, CA, and nationwide, our hair testing facilities offer unmatched convenience. Accessing testing services is seamless, whether locally or across the country, ensuring the process is quick and hassle-free.

The ease of availability allows individuals and organizations to obtain necessary testing at a suite of accessible and reliable locations across the nation.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Adin, CA

In Adin, CA, Accredited Drug Testing offers a straightforward, confidential approach to hair follicle testing. From order to results, the process prioritizes privacy and simplicity. The seamless procedure ensures ease of use while addressing user concerns regarding confidentiality and data security from start to finish.

This dedication to keeping the process discreet reassures individuals and employers alike.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Adin, CA

Offering competitive pricing alongside speedy processing times, we present significant advantages for businesses of all sizes in Adin, CA. Our affordable hair testing ensures clients gain value for their investment, while rapid turnaround times foster efficiency.

By combining cost-effectiveness with swift service, we cater to diverse business needs with peace of mind.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Adin, CA

For rapid, dependable outcomes, hair follicle drug tests surpass traditional methods in Adin, CA. Known for their precision, these tests detect substance use with unmatched accuracy. Whether for employers or individuals seeking reliable insights, the advanced technology ensures swift results.

The meticulous analysis offered by hair testing in Adin guarantees not only fast results but also minimizes error margins, providing a dependable assessment of any substance use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Adin, CA

Enforcing drug-free policies through hair follicle testing offers Adin employers legal security and improved workplace safety. Embracing this reliable method reduces the legal risks tied to traditional testing approaches. This confidence allows businesses to foster a safe and compliant work environment, providing peace of mind across the board.

Employers can rely on this method for assured regulatory compliance and employee safety.