Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for detecting substances. Hair captures historical usage data of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibre. When sourced from near the scalp, hair offers a detection period for alcohol and drugs of roughly three months. Hair collection is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and simple to send off.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 hair strands (approximately the dimensions of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, the optimum sample for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding ten, a 150mg sample is advised. It's preferable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. Our term “head hair” applies solely to scalp hair, while “body hair” encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, armpit, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing protocol encompasses four main phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step in integrating a sample into a laboratory’s database. This step verifies the sample’s proper sealing and shipping, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in any missing information not available from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as an initial analysis for substance presence. Though Screening efficiently excludes drugs in most specimens, a positive finding must undergo Confirmation to be legally valid. Presumed positive samples in Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
Should a screening yield a presumptive positive, further hair is taken from the sample and prepped for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are drawn from hair at concentrations much lesser than in alternative methods such as urine or oral fluid, making hair drug testing a notably challenging technique.
Verification of positive findings is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. All samples indicating presumptive positives are washed prior to confirmation as appropriate. The complete procedure from Accessioning to Verification undergoes evaluation in line with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", the test evaluates the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Hair follicle testing surpasses urine tests in Machiasport, ME by providing superior detection accuracy and reliability. The testing method effectively identifies a wider range of substance use over an extended period. Employers and authorities observe a greater assurance in results due to the advanced nature of this technology.
With a detection window extending up to 90 days, hair follicle testing in Machiasport, ME gives employers a comprehensive overview of an individual's substance use history. This long detection period helps in making informed hiring decisions, knowing an applicant's or employee's drug use over time.
In Machiasport, ME, the hair follicle testing method significantly reduces the chances of sample adulteration, assuring reliable results. This tamper-resistant nature ensures that the test outcomes are dependable and cannot be easily manipulated, providing peace of mind and trust in the findings.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient testing locations across the nation, including services in Machiasport, ME, providing quick and hassle-free access. Our network of centers ensures that testing is easily accessible for all, facilitating a smooth and efficient testing process for everyone involved.
The testing process in Machiasport, ME is simple and confidential, addressing concerns about privacy and ease of use. From ordering the test to receiving results, each step is designed to protect your privacy while ensuring a straightforward experience.
In Machiasport, ME, our competitive pricing and fast turnaround times provide excellent value for companies of all sizes. Accredited Drug Testing's cost-effective solutions make drug testing accessible while ensuring rapid results, delivering both savings and reliability.
In Machiasport, ME, hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and speed in delivering results. They have a high accuracy rate for detecting substance use, ensuring you can trust the findings. The testing process quickly yields results that stand firm against scrutiny, making them a reliable choice for individuals and organizations alike.
Employers in Machiasport, ME can enhance their compliance with drug-free workplace policies by utilizing hair follicle testing. This method minimizes legal risks and improves workplace safety by ensuring accurate drug screening. A compliant work environment provides peace of mind for employers and employees alike.
