Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective means for detecting substance and alcohol consumption. Hair stores a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug intake by capturing biomarkers within the strands. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal up to about a three-month detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to send.
A segment measuring 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or assessments beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar volume of body hair may be gathered. When discussing head hair, we refer only to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary steps in the lab processing of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial processing of a sample into a lab's system. This entails verifying the sample's sealing and shipping, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody method.
Screening consists of an initial rapid check for drug misuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient method to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples with a presumptively positive screen demand subsequent confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive in the Screening stage, more hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are drawn from hair at a considerably lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most daunting technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screened result utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation, if required. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the assessment actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Temple City, CA
The advantages of hair testing are clear when compared to traditional urine tests. Hair tests offer exceptional accuracy and reliability in detecting drug use. Their prolonged detection window far surpasses that of urine tests, providing a more comprehensive screening option.
Extended Detection Window in Temple City, CA
Hair follicle tests can detect drug use over an impressive period of up to 90 days. This extended detection window allows employers to gain an in-depth understanding of an individual’s substance history, making it an invaluable tool for comprehensive assessments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Temple City, CA
One of the significant benefits of hair follicle testing is its resistance to tampering. The method ensures that the sample remains unaltered, delivering reliable and unquestionable results while substantially minimizing the risk of manipulation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Temple City, CA
Our testing centers spread across the nation make access to hair follicle drug testing straightforward and stress-free. Local and nationwide availability ensures quick and effortless testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Temple City, CA
The process of hair follicle testing is straightforward and respects privacy. Ordering, testing, and receiving results is crafted to be simple, addressing privacy concerns and ensuring a user-friendly experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Temple City, CA
We offer competitive pricing and speedy turnaround times for hair follicle testing. Our efficient service provides excellent value and confidence for companies regardless of their size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Temple City, CA
Hair follicle drug tests provide swift and precise results, making them a superior choice for detecting substance use. Their accuracy in pinpointing drug presence ensures they are dependable and trusted by many professionals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Temple City, CA
Adopting hair follicle testing guarantees adherence to drug-free workplace policies, significantly reducing legal risks and enhancing workplace safety. Employers can rest assured knowing their policies are upheld.
