Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Readfield, ME

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has become recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a historical record of substance use by encapsulating biomarkers within the growing hair strand fibers. When extracted near the scalp, hair offers a detection window for alcohol and other drugs extending up to roughly three months. Hair is easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp produces 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional testing, or analyses above 10 panels, a sample size of 150mg is suggested. We recommend using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair specifically pertain to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four essential stages in laboratory drug test processing are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning consists of the initial handling of a sample in a laboratory’s system, which involves confirming proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is an economical method for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be validated to be legally valid. Samples that show a presumptive positive in Screening require a subsequent confirmation.

If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. During this phase, hair undergoes drug extraction at a notably lower concentration than in other testing methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thereby making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology to execute.

Validation of any positive screening outcome is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are cleansed prior to confirmation as necessary. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes scrutiny under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation aligns with ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can recognize drug use for a duration of up to 90 days, unlike urine tests, which present a shorter detection period.
• Hard to manipulate: It is extremely challenging to deceive a hair drug test, therefore the results are more reliable.
• Yields historical usage patterns: It reveals a pattern of drug use across time, unlike just capturing recent use.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent consumption: Drugs become identifiable in hair only after approximately 5-7 days.
• Expense: Generally, hair drug tests cost more compared to other drug testing procedures.
• Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual growth rates can influence the concentration of drug metabolites in hair.

Note: Despite often being labeled as "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, excluding the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Readfield, ME

• Hair testing outshines traditional urine tests with its extended detection period and reliability.
• The accuracy and dependability of hair tests surpass those of urine tests, making them a preferred choice.
• Employers benefit from the superior detection capabilities that hair testing provides.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Readfield, ME

• Hair follicle testing reveals drug use over an extended period, typically up to 90 days.
• This offers employers a comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use history.
• Such an extended detection timeframe enhances the ability to maintain a drug-free workplace.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Readfield, ME

• Hair follicle tests markedly reduce chances of sample adulteration.
• They provide reliable outcomes that are less susceptible to manipulation.
• This tamper-resistant nature ensures confidence in the test results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Readfield, ME

• Our nationwide network ensures convenient access to testing facilities.
• Testing in Readfield is straightforward and hassle-free, ensuring a smooth experience.
• Whether local or nationwide, our centers make the process accessible and efficient.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Readfield, ME

• Ordering, testing, and receiving results is straightforward and discreet.
• We prioritize privacy and ease of use throughout the drug testing process.
• Our approach ensures the confidentiality and simplicity valued by clients.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Readfield, ME

• Our pricing structures are competitive, offering excellent value for businesses.
• Quick turnaround times amplify the benefits, providing timely results.
• This combination of affordability and speed caters to companies of various sizes.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Readfield, ME

• Hair follicle drug tests offer rapid and precise detection of drug use.
• These tests provide high accuracy, reducing the margin of error when identifying substance traces.
• With hair testing, results are delivered swiftly, ensuring quick confirmation and minimal waiting times.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Readfield, ME

• Utilizing hair follicle testing aids in adhering to drug-free workplace policies.
• It diminishes potential legal issues and enhances safety in the work environment.
• Employers gain peace of mind, knowing they are upholding compliance standards.

Drug Testing Near Readfield, ME

Hallowell, ME

Vienna, ME

Belgrade, ME

Leeds, ME

Manchester, ME

Winthrop, ME

Mount Vernon, ME

Wayne, ME

Fayette, ME