Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for detecting substance use. Hair captures a historical record of alcohol and drug consumption by securing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When taken close to the scalp, it can reveal a usage timeline of approximately three months for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, reasonably tamper-resistant, and convenient to transport.
A hair specimen of 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 strands (comparable in diameter to a #2 pencil), taken near the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, extra tests, or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is suggested. If scalp hair is not accessible, a comparable volume of body hair may be used. Head hair refers exclusively to that on the scalp, while body hair includes all other types (such as facial and underarm hair).
Process Overview
The key phases in the laboratory handling of a drug test are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the early processing stage where a sample is logged into the laboratory’s system. This covers verifying the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any additional data inputs absent from an electronic chain of custody protocol.
Screening performs an initial rapid verification for substance misuse. Although Screening offers a cost-benefit in ruling out drug use in most samples, positive screens require validation to hold up in legal cases. All presumptive positives found during Screening necessitate secondary verification.
Should a sample test presumptive positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or saliva), highlighting the complexity involved in hair drug analysis.
Positive Screening results undergo Confirmation using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire process from Accessioning through to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 certification standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Triumphs Over Urine Tests in Planada, CA
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair testing is superior in many respects. It provides a more accurate and reliable assessment due to its longer detection window and resistance to tampering.
Employers in Planada, CA, prefer hair follicle tests for their enhanced detection capabilities, ensuring adherence to strict substance use policies with greater confidence.
The Advantage of an Extended Detection Window in Planada, CA
Hair follicle testing offers a significant observation window of up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of an applicant's or employee’s drug history.
The 90-day window provided by hair follicle testing in Planada, CA assists in making informed decisions, promoting workplace safety and compliance with substance-free policies.
Securing Integrity with Tamper-Resistant Hair Testing in Planada, CA
Hair follicle testing considerably lowers the risk of sample tampering. Its robust procedure ensures results remain authentic and unquestionable.
Residents of Planada, CA can trust hair testing methods for their reliability, as tampering is practically impossible, providing peace of mind for testers and test-takers alike.
Convenience of Nationwide and Local Locations in Planada, CA
Our testing centers are strategically located to offer the utmost convenience. Nationwide accessibility ensures that quick and hassle-free testing is always within reach.
In Planada, CA, individuals benefit from our local testing sites, ensuring they can access necessary services without any delay or inconvenience.
A Simple and Confidential Testing Process in Planada, CA
The hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential, addressing any privacy concerns individuals might have throughout the entire procedure.
Planada, CA residents will find the process of ordering, executing, and receiving results to be both simple and private, ensuring a stress-free experience.
Affordable Options and Rapid Results in Planada, CA
We offer competitive pricing structures along with quick turnaround times. Businesses of all sizes can experience the value and reassurance that comes with our services.
For companies in Planada, CA, our affordable pricing and fast result delivery provide excellent value, allowing them to implement effective workplace policies efficiently.
Fast and Accurate Hair Testing in Planada, CA
Hair follicle testing offers swift and precise results. This method is renowned for its ability to accurately identify substance usage, ensuring that results are both dependable and timely.
In Planada, CA, individuals benefit from the hair follicle test's unparalleled precision. It provides a reliable measure that accurately reflects an individual's substance history over time.
Achieving Compliance and Peace of Mind with Hair Testing in Planada, CA
Employers can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies by utilizing hair follicle testing. It reduces legal risks and enhances the overall safety of the workplace.
In Planada, CA, many businesses have adopted hair drug testing as a standard part of their hiring and compliance processes, creating a safe and compliant work environment for all.
