Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. As hair grows, it incorporates biomarkers, offering a prolonged record of substance use. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a three-month usage history for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transportation.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) from the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, supplementary assessments, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It's recommended to weigh the specimen using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers strictly to scalp fur, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types, such as facial and armpit hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the lab's system. This step includes checking that the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and filling in any missing data that isn’t covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as a preliminary examination for substance abuse. Though it's cost-efficient and can exclude drug use for most samples, positive results in Screening need confirmation to be court-admissible. Samples that show potential drug use in Screening must undergo further confirmation.
Should a sample test positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for further analysis in the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods such as urine or saliva testing, making hair drug screening more complex to execute.
For any samples that test positive, confirmation is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All tentatively positive samples undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The full laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is audited per the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually involves the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
When it comes to identifying substance use, hair testing in Freeport, ME stands out against traditional urine tests. The capability to detect drug presence over an extended period offers a reliability that urine tests simply can't match. This superior accuracy and reliability make hair tests especially useful for employers and organizations enforcing strict substance policies.
Employers who prioritize reliability should consider the benefits of hair testing.
The ability of hair follicle testing in Freeport, ME to detect drug use over a prolonged period, sometimes up to 90 days, provides a comprehensive insight into an individual’s substance history. This extended detection window gives employers an advantage when evaluating potential candidates or monitoring current employees, ensuring informed decision-making.
In Freeport, ME, hair follicle tests drastically lower the chance of sample tampering. The hair sampling method is less susceptible to adulteration compared to urine tests, ensuring that the results are as truthful and accurate as possible. This feature makes hair testing a favorite for those needing absolute confidence in test results.
With convenient testing sites spanning the Nation, including local locations in Freeport, ME, we ensure that accessing hair follicle testing services is hassle-free. Our extensive network guarantees ease of testing for individuals and organizations alike. The simplicity of reaching a nearby testing center means less time and effort spent on logistics, adding a level of convenience unparalleled in the industry.
The process of arranging and participating in hair follicle testing in Freeport, ME is streamlined and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, every step is designed to maintain privacy and simplicity for the users. This approach addresses privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use, making the testing experience smooth and straightforward.
In Freeport, ME, our competitive pricing structures and fast turnaround times set us apart. Providing excellent value for companies of all sizes, our hair follicle testing services offer quick and affordable solutions to drug testing, ensuring that you receive dependable results without financial strain.
For residents of Freeport, ME, the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests are unmatched. These tests offer high accuracy in detecting substance use, providing reliable results rapidly. The advanced technology behind hair testing ensures thorough analysis, making it an ideal choice for those who need certainty in their drug screening processes.
The latest developments in hair testing technology mean that results are both accurate and quick.
Hair follicle testing adds a layer of security for Freeport, ME employers by ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies. It supports compliance and reduces legal liabilities while promoting workplace safety. Utilizing hair testing de-stresses the drug testing process, giving employers peace of mind.
