Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly regarded as an effective approach for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term timeline of these substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When samples are taken close to the scalp, it can offer a detection window of up to around three months for both alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tough to tamper with, and simple to send.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of about 200 hairs (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) taken nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale for measuring the specimen’s weight. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. In references to head hair, this specifically means scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair kinds (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result is comprised of four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary processing of a sample into the laboratory’s system. It includes ensuring the sample's seal and shipment were handled correctly, designating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any extra data entry not included by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary rapid examination for drugs of abuse. This stage is a cost-efficient approach to dismiss drug use for most samples; however, a positive screen needs verification to be valid legally. Any samples that are presumptively positive in this stage necessitate further confirmation.
Once a sample shows a presumptive positive result in Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. Drugs are isolated from the hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most challenging technique to execute.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are used for confirming any positive screening result. All presumptive positives are washed before confirmation as needed. The whole laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often known as "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand and not the follicle itself located under the scalp.
In Canton Valley, CT, hair follicle testing showcases its superiority over traditional urine tests. The primary benefits include heightened detection accuracy and strong reliability. While urine tests are widely used, hair testing can detect a wider range of substances over a longer duration. Employers and officials appreciate the detailed insights hair tests can offer, revealing a more comprehensive picture of substance use habits.
Hair follicle testing offers an extended window of detection in Canton Valley, CT. With the capability of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior, it provides employers a complete view of an individual's substance practices. This extended timeframe is critical for ensuring that any potential risks related to substance abuse are accurately identified, regardless of when the consumption occurred within that period.
In Canton Valley, CT, hair follicle tests stand out as a tamper-resistant solution for drug detection. Unlike other testing methods, hair samples are less susceptible to adulteration attempts. The integrity of the sample is preserved throughout the process, ensuring reliable and unquestionable results. This makes hair follicle testing a trusted choice for organizations seeking accurate assessments without the risk of manipulation.
Access to nationwide testing centers and local facilities in Canton Valley, CT ensures convenience and efficiency in drug testing services. Our extensive network allows for hassle-free testing, eliminating the stress often associated with finding a location for testing. Whether local or beyond, our centers offer a straightforward approach to maintaining drug-free environments across the board.
In Canton Valley, CT, the process of ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is both simple and confidential. Concerns regarding privacy are addressed thoroughly through secure handling and processing protocols. Easy access to these essential services means that individuals and companies can rely on us for their testing needs without the added worry of complexity or exposure.
With competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times, hair follicle drug testing in Canton Valley, CT offers exceptional value. Our pricing structures cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring affordability without compromising quality. This strategy, combined with speedy results, provides economical peace of mind, fostering trust and efficiency in regular drug testing programs.
The efficacy of hair follicle testing in Canton Valley, CT is unparalleled when it comes to precision and speed. Hair follicle tests are renowned for their ability to accurately detect substance use with minimal delay. In a fast-paced world, knowing the results are dependable and arrive quickly provides much-needed assurance for individuals and employers alike.
Accuracy of the test is not compromised during rapid processing, offering peace of mind.
For employers in Canton Valley, CT, hair follicle testing offers crucial benefits for compliance and peace of mind. Using this method helps ensure adherence to workplace drug-free policies, significantly reducing legal liabilities and enhancing overall safety. Reliable testing methods support a healthier, more productive workforce by identifying potential substance abuse issues before they escalate.
