What it is, How it works

Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair shaft, hair can provide an extended timeline of alcohol and drug use. When gathered near the scalp, hair offers an approximately 3-month period for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, challenging to adulterate, and simple to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in diameter to a #2 pencil) near the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair may be taken. By head hair, we mean only scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The drug test result processing in the laboratory encompasses four main steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning pertains to the initial sample processing into the laboratory’s system. This step confirms the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any further data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary rapid check for drugs of abuse. While Screening offers a cost-efficient approach to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive screen must be authenticated to be valid in legal settings. Any samples with presumptive positives in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.

When a sample questions positive in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the original specimen for preparation for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lesser concentrations than in other methodologies (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex methodology to accomplish.

Positive screening results undergo Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Extended detection period: Hair drug evaluations can ascertain drug usage for as long as 90 days, contrasting with urine tests which cover a briefer detection period.
Difficulty in deception: Cheating a hair drug test is considerably challenging, thus enhancing result accuracy.
Historical data provision: It can outline a pattern of drug usage over time, not just recent activity.

Limitations:

Inability to detect recent use: Drugs become detectable in hair approximately 5-7 days after use.
Expense: Generally, hair drug tests bear a higher cost compared to other drug testing methods.
Result variability: Elements such as hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence the drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the assessment examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Caribou, ME

In Caribou, ME, hair follicle testing is emerging as the superior choice over urine tests. It provides a longer detection window and greater accuracy, making it the preferred option for discerning substance use. Employers and professionals find its results more dependable than traditional urine tests, offering a more comprehensive understanding of drug history. It's a significant step forward in effective screening practices.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Caribou, ME

Hair follicle testing in Caribou, ME, is prized for its extended detection capabilities, often reaching up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use history. The extended window offers a clearer picture of long-term habits compared to shorter-term tests, ensuring more informed hiring and employment decisions. It's a robust option for comprehensive background checks.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Caribou, ME

In Caribou, ME, hair follicle testing stands out as a tamper-resistant option, significantly reducing the chances of sample manipulation. This method ensures reliable results, difficult to alter, enhancing trust in the testing process. With stringent collection procedures, the integrity of hair testing is maintained, providing unquestionable and dependable outcomes for all stakeholders involved.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Caribou, ME

Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers, including Caribou, ME, ensures access to quick and hassle-free drug testing services. This extensive reach means easy scheduling and rapid processing for individuals and employers alike. With local accessibility, hair testing becomes a practical solution for maintaining compliance and ensuring reliability across various industries and requirements.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Caribou, ME

In Caribou, ME, the hair testing process is simple and confidential, prioritizing privacy and ease. Ordering, taking, and receiving results is streamlined to minimize stress and ensure confidentiality. Individuals can trust in the secure handling of their information, making the procedure not only effective but also respectful of personal privacy and professional standards.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Caribou, ME

Offering competitive pricing and swift turnaround times in Caribou, ME, hair testing represents true value for companies of all sizes. The affordability of hair analysis doesn't compromise its reliability, providing businesses with cost-effective options for thorough assessments. Rapid result delivery further underscores the advantage of this testing method, balancing quality and efficiency.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Caribou, ME

Hair follicle drug testing in Caribou, ME, offers unmatched precision and speed. The efficiency and meticulousness involved ensure accurate detection of substance use. This method is valued for its high accuracy rates, facilitating better-informed decisions for employers. Hair testing's well-established procedures deliver rapid and reliable outcomes, reassuring those relying on the results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Caribou, ME

By implementing hair follicle testing in Caribou, ME, employers can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This approach mitigates legal risks and bolsters workplace safety. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their policies are enforced accurately and fairly, reflecting their commitment to a secure and productive work environment. Hair testing's reliability supports these essential objectives.