Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Tolland, CT

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is now recognized as a potent method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a lasting record of substance use by embedding biomarkers in the hair's growing fibers. When cut near the scalp, hair can show evidence of drug and alcohol use for a duration of up to three months. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.

A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) and taken closest to the scalp, will yield 100mg of hair, which is the perfect amount for initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional testing, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is preferred. We advise measuring the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair cannot be collected, an equivalent amount of body hair is a suitable substitute. When we mention head hair, we are specifically referring to scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other types (like facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

There are four key steps in processing a drug test result in the lab: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the step where a sample is initially processed into the laboratory's system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data not provided through an electronic chain of custody.

Screening consists of a preliminary test for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to dismiss drug usage in most cases, a positive result needs verification to be legally defensible. Any samples that test positive during Screening must undergo a secondary confirmation.

If a sample shows presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at concentrations lower than other methodologies (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing the most challenging method to conduct.

Positive results from Screening are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any sample assumed positive is washed before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection timeframe: Hair drug tests can reveal drug use over a period of up to 90 days, as opposed to urine tests which offer a shorter detection period.
• Difficult to deceive: Hair drug tests are quite resistant to cheating, enhancing their reliability.
• Offers historical insight: This method shows drug use patterns over time, not merely recent use.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: Drugs become noticeable in hair roughly 5-7 days after usage.
• Price: Hair drug tests tend to be pricier than alternative drug testing methods.
• Result variability: Factors like hair color and personal differences in hair growth can influence drug metabolite concentrations in the hair.

Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", these tests actually assess the hair shaft and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Testing Prevails in Tolland, CT is evident when comparing its benefits against traditional urine tests. Hair follicle testing boasts a superior detection period, effectively monitoring drug use over a longer timeframe. This method provides a more reliable and foolproof assessment, significantly reducing the possibility of manipulation, unlike urine tests where tampering is a more prevalent issue.

Extended Detection Window

Extend Detection Capabilities with Hair Testing in Tolland, CT provides a comprehensive review of substance use for up to 90 days. This extended window grants employers insight into long-term substance habits, offering a thorough background on potential hires or current employees. Hair tests outperform urine tests, which generally cover a very short detection span, ensuring comprehensive monitoring capabilities.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Secure Your Results with Hair Testing in Tolland, CT as the method significantly curtails the risk of tampering. Hair follicle tests are inherently tamper-resistant, providing trustworthy and unassailable results. The secure nature of hair testing ensures the context of assessments remains beyond doubt, crucial for upholding stringent drug-free policies and maintaining accurate records.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Easy Access to Nationwide and Local Tests in Tolland, CT highlights our network of testing centers, simplifying the process for both individual and corporate testing needs. Whether local or nationwide, our centers ensure convenient and efficient service to accommodate clients, providing the ease of accessibility for thorough and prompt testing.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple and Private Testing Process in Tolland, CT assures an easy-to-follow and confidential approach, maintaining individual privacy and comfort. From ordering to obtaining results, the entire process emphasizes confidentiality, addressing privacy concerns, and ensuring a stress-free experience for all participants involved.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Competitive Pricing and Quick Service in Tolland, CT provides superior value by offering affordable pricing models accompanied by rapid result delivery. These elements ensure excellent cost-effectiveness and swift results, making it an appealing option for businesses of all sizes seeking to implement efficient drug-testing policies at a reasonable investment.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Accurate and Swift Hair Follicle Tests in Tolland, CT offer unmatched precision and speed in drug detection. Standard hair tests ensure reliable identification of substance use, providing results that are both precise and quickly available. These tests effectively support a drug-free workplace policy with one of the highest accuracy levels attainable in testing methodologies.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Adhere to Compliance and Ensure Security in Tolland, CT utilizing hair follicle testing. This methodology supports stringent compliance with workplace drug policies, minimizing legal risks, and enhancing overall safety. By incorporating hair testing, companies reinforce their commitment to maintaining a secure and drug-free environment, ensuring peace of mind.

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