Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair fibers capture biomarkers within the strands, offering a comprehensive history of substance use. When taken from near the scalp, hair samples can reveal drug use over a period of up to three months. The process of hair collection is straightforward, with resistance to tampering, and facilitates easy shipment.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches and comprising roughly 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) near the scalp delivers 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, it's advisable to collect 150mg of the sample. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair cannot be collected, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results involves four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is logged into a laboratory’s system. This step ensures that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and fills in any missing data not provided through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is a cost-effective technique that can rule out drug use in most samples, a positive outcome necessitates confirmation to be considered valid for legal purposes. Any samples with presumptive positives in Screening require further confirmation.
If a sample shows presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. During this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a challenging process.
Confirmation for any positive screening result employs methods like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with presumptive positives undergo necessary washing prior to confirmation. The comprehensive laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation as well as the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often termed as "hair follicle tests", the evaluation focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Ridgecrest, CA.
Compared to urine tests, hair follicle testing provides superior detection capabilities. Its reliability is unmatched, showing a broader detection window and higher accuracy. Hair testing is less susceptible to cheating, making it ideal for zero-tolerance policies.
Extended Detection Window in Ridgecrest, CA.
Hair follicle testing captures drug use over an extended period, typically up to 90 days. This extensive window provides employers with a comprehensive insight into a person's substance use history, facilitating informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ridgecrest, CA.
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their resistance to tampering. Due to the methodical collection process, the tests yield reliable and undisputed results, enhancing trust in the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Ridgecrest, CA.
With a vast network of testing centers, including those in Ridgecrest, CA, accessing our services is straightforward and swift. Nationwide availability ensures hassle-free testing wherever needed.
Simple, Confidential Process in Ridgecrest, CA.
Our hair follicle testing process is designed for simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, every step ensures participant privacy and convenience, addressing any concerns regarding personal information security.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Ridgecrest, CA.
We offer competitive pricing coupled with expedited result delivery. This combination provides substantial value while ensuring peace of mind for businesses ranging from large corporations to small enterprises.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Ridgecrest, CA.
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision and quick results, distinguishing them as a leading choice for detecting substance use. The reliability of these tests ensures confident decision-making for businesses and individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ridgecrest, CA.
Implementing hair follicle testing in the workplace ensures adherence to drug-free policies. It mitigates legal risks while promoting a safer working environment, offering peace of mind to employers.
