Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Recognized as an effective method, hair testing offers valuable insights into drug and alcohol use. The fibers of the hair strand capture biomarkers, providing a comprehensive historical record of substance use. When taken near the scalp, hair samples can reveal a detection window that extends up to three months for drugs and alcohol. Collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and shipping is convenient.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, yields 100mg, which is optimal for analysis and validation. For tests including EtG, add-ons, and those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is unavailable, equivalent body hair can be collected. References to head hair pertain strictly to scalp hair, while body hair includes other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Key steps in processing a drug test result at the laboratory include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial introduction of a sample into the laboratory’s workflow. This step ensures the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigns it a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completes any extra data entry not included by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a rapid preliminary test for drugs of abuse. While this is a cost-effective way to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be legally valid. Any samples with a presumptive positive result from Screening need secondary confirmation.
If there is a presumptive positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drug traces are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening especially challenging.
Positive results from Screening are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Any samples that are presumptively positive are washed before confirmation, if required. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself, not the follicle below the scalp.
In Blackhawk, CA, hair follicle testing offers superior advantages over traditional urine tests. This method provides more accurate detection, ensuring drug use doesn't go unnoticed. Hair testing's reliability offers a critical edge over urine tests, which can be compromised more easily.
Compared to urine tests, hair tests give a clearer picture of an individual's drug use history, confirming its superior efficacy and comprehensive nature in detecting substances.
Blackhawk, CA, businesses benefit from hair follicle testing, which covers a broader detection window compared to other methods. With a capability to detect drugs up to 90 days back, employers gain a thorough perspective on substance use history.
Hair testing’s extended window enables employers to see a detailed account of an individual's past usage, offering a long-term view unavailable with other testing methods.
Hair follicle drug testing in Blackhawk, CA, ensures sample integrity is maintained throughout the process. Its tamper-resistant nature drastically reduces the potential for sample adulteration, providing indisputable results.
The robustness of hair testing means that results remain trustworthy and reliable, as the possibilities for tampering or manipulation are minimized significantly.
Residents of Blackhawk, CA, have access to a network of testing facilities nationwide, offering convenience and accessibility. Our strategically placed centers ensure testing is quick and easy, minimizing disruptions.
The wide availability of centers across the nation simplifies the process, making it hassle-free and straightforward for those requiring testing services.
The drug testing process in Blackhawk, CA, is streamlined to be simple and private. From ordering to taking the test, and receiving results, confidentiality is assured, enhancing user experience.
Participants can rely on a smooth, discreet process with strict privacy measures, ensuring comfort and ease at every stage.
Blackhawk, CA, sees a commitment to affordable and competitive pricing for hair follicle testing. Organizations, regardless of size, benefit from this value along with quick result delivery.
Our pricing structure and fast turnaround times ensure maximum value, making this method a cost-effective solution for companies handling substance evaluations.
Hair follicle drug testing in Blackhawk, CA, provides fast and precise outcomes. The accuracy of these tests in detecting substance use far surpasses many other methods. Not only is the process efficient, but the results are also reliable, giving users confidence in their findings.
The cutting-edge technology used in hair testing ensures that results are both accurate and delivered promptly. For anyone seeking dependable information on substance use, this method stands out as both precise and swift.
Employers in Blackhawk, CA, enjoy peace of mind with hair follicle testing aligned with drug-free workplace policies. This testing method enhances safety by ensuring compliance, minimizing legal concerns and maximizing the sense of trust.
Choosing hair tests helps organizations uphold their zero-tolerance policies while safeguarding their work environment and mitigating potential liabilities effectively.
