Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures biomarkers within its fibers, offering a historical overview of alcohol and drug use. When strands are collected close to the scalp, hair testing can reveal substance use over a span of approximately three months. This method is straightforward to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, composed of around 200 strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is perfect for screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, add-ons, or exams exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weight of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount of body hair is acceptable. When referring to head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Procedure Summary
The laboratory processing of a drug test encompasses four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary handling of a sample into a lab's system. This process checks that the sample was appropriately sealed and sent, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry that an electronic chain of custody system does not cover.
Screening entails a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. While it is cost-effective to eliminate drug usage in most cases, a positive screen must be validated for legal acceptance. Presumptive positive samples identified during Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
When a sample shows a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. This phase extracts drugs from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug testing is a more challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screen is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Pros of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", these tests actually focus on the hair strand itself, rather than the hair follicle within the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sloughhouse, CA
Hair testing offers superior detection capabilities compared to urine tests. In Sloughhouse, CA, its enhanced accuracy and reliability make it the preferred choice for thorough substance use screening.
Additionally, hair tests provide a broader detection window, capturing a history of drug use over months rather than days, unlike urine tests that cover a shorter timeframe.
Extended Detection Window in Sloughhouse, CA
Hair follicle testing in Sloughhouse, CA, stands out with its ability to detect drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This comprehensive view is vital for employers assessing an employee's or applicant's substance use history.
By offering insights into longer-term drug use patterns, hair testing equips employers with crucial data for informed decision-making regarding hiring and retention.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sloughhouse, CA
The hair follicle test minimizes the chance of sample adulteration. In Sloughhouse, CA, it offers a secure testing method, ensuring reliable and credible results.
With its robust collection and testing protocols, hair tests effectively eliminate the typical methods of tampering seen with other testing types, supporting trustworthy outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sloughhouse, CA
Offering extensive testing locations nationwide, we facilitate easy and hassle-free access to drug testing services in Sloughhouse, CA.
Quick and convenient, our network of testing centers ensures that clients benefit from local access and efficient service, no matter where they are located.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sloughhouse, CA
In Sloughhouse, CA, we prioritize a straightforward and confidential testing process, addressing privacy concerns and ensuring ease of use for clients.
From ordering the test to receiving results, the process is designed to be efficient and discreet, respecting client confidentiality at every step, providing peace of mind.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sloughhouse, CA
We affirm our commitment to cost-effective pricing and rapid result delivery in Sloughhouse, CA, offering substantial value for businesses of all sizes.
Our competitive pricing models, paired with speedy turnaround times, ensure that clients receive excellent value and timely information without compromising quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sloughhouse, CA
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and speed. In Sloughhouse, CA, these tests offer a high level of accuracy in uncovering substance use, providing dependable results in a timely manner.
Combining advanced technology with professional handling, hair testing quickly delivers results while maintaining high accuracy. This ensures employers receive reliable data quickly, enhancing decision-making processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sloughhouse, CA
Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies. In Sloughhouse, CA, it mitigates legal risks and fosters a safer work environment.
Employers gain peace of mind from the assurance that hair testing provides in upholding compliance, reducing potential liabilities, and promoting workplace safety.
