Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly regarded as an effective method for detecting alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures indicators of alcohol and other substances by embedding them within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use within a timeframe of roughly three months. This method of collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easy for transport.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of about 200 hairs (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp equates to 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for testing. For EtG, supplementary tests, or screenings exceeding 10 panels, a collection of 150mg is advised. It’s suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair cannot be sourced, a corresponding amount of body hair may be collected. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The drug testing lab process comprises four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves bringing a sample into the lab’s system. This step includes confirming the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling any missing information not supplied electronically.
Screening is the preliminary test for signs of drug use. Though cost-efficient for eliminating drug presence in many samples, any positive initial result needs confirmation for legal validity. Samples flagged as probably positive during Screening require a further Confirmation test.
When a sample tests probably positive in Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for the Extraction process. This phase isolates drugs from hair at concentrations lower than those in other testing methods (like urine or saliva), contributing to the complexity of hair drug analysis.
Positive screenings are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. As needed, all samples assumed positive are cleaned before confirmation. The completion of the laboratory processes from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being mentioned as "hair follicle tests", the method examines the hair shaft, not the root beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in East Palo Alto, CA
Hair tests offer a broader detection period than urine tests, capturing substance use history effectively. They are a superior choice due to their consistency and reliability, providing employers and authorities with a more accurate picture of substance use.
Extended Detection Window in East Palo Alto, CA
Hair follicle tests are capable of detecting drug use for up to 90 days, offering a thorough overview of an individual's substance use history. For employers in East Palo Alto, this extended detection window aids in making well-informed decisions about potential hires with a comprehensive long-term view.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in East Palo Alto, CA
One of the significant benefits of hair follicle tests is their resistance to tampering. Unlike other methods, these tests provide reliable results that are difficult to alter or manipulate, giving employers and agencies confidence in their outcome.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in East Palo Alto, CA
Our extensive network of testing centers provides accessible and hassle-free testing processes. With facilities available both nationwide and locally in East Palo Alto, getting tested has never been easier for individuals and employers.
Simple, Confidential Process in East Palo Alto, CA
The whole procedure from ordering to receiving results is straightforward and confidential. This ensures that privacy remains intact while making the whole process as simple as possible for individuals and employers.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in East Palo Alto, CA
Offering competitive pricing and rapid result turnaround, hair follicle testing ensures value for money. Businesses of all sizes in East Palo Alto benefit from this cost-effective and efficient solution.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in East Palo Alto, CA
Hair follicle drug tests deliver quick and precise results, making them a preferred choice for substance detection. Their high accuracy ensures they can reliably identify both drug and alcohol consumption.
For those in East Palo Alto, hair testing offers immediate results, supporting informed decision-making for employers and service providers alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in East Palo Alto, CA
Using hair follicle testing helps employers maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies. It minimizes legal risks by ensuring that all employees adhere to company procedures and guidelines, thereby enhancing workplace safety.
