Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers, hair provides an extended history of alcohol and drug presence. When sampling near the scalp, hair analysis offers an approximately 3-month time frame for detecting alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipment.
A sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a pencil), close to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is considered optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or more extensive panel tests beyond 10, a 150mg specimen is favored. Using a jeweler's scale for accurate weighing is suggested. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair may be gathered. When discussing head hair, it refers solely to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses various types, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
There are four principal steps in a laboratory's processing of drug test samples: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In Accessioning, the process begins with integrating a sample into the lab’s framework. This process ensures the sample's seal and shipment were correctly handled, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishes any data input that an electronic chain of custody system did not supply.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for drug presence. Though cost-effective for determining drug consumption in most samples, any positive findings necessitate confirmation to be recognized in court. Samples with a preliminary positive result in Screening require additional confirmation.
When Screening indicates a possible positive result, additional hair is taken from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. During this phase, drug substances are extracted from the hair in much lower concentrations than those found with alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), marking hair drug analysis as a challenging approach to execute.
Any confirmed positive outcomes from Screening are further verified using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples with presumptive results undergo necessary washing before Confirmation. Each step from Accessioning to Confirmation is meticulously evaluated, adhering to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria alongside ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", these tests actually analyze the hair strand and not the follicle located beneath the scalp.
The Edge of Hair Testing
When it comes to drug detection in Bolton, MA, hair follicle testing offers clear advantages over traditional urine tests. With longer detection windows and higher accuracy, this method provides a more comprehensive view of substance use, thus setting a new standard for reliability and precision in drug testing protocols.
Extended Observation Capabilities
Hair follicle tests offer an unmatched detection window in Bolton, MA, extending up to 90 days. This long-term capability provides employers a thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history, ensuring decisions are based on comprehensive data.
Reliable Results with Tamper Resistance
In Bolton, MA, hair follicle testing is renowned for its resilience against tampering attempts. The method's design significantly minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, providing employers and organizations with results they can trust, free from doubt or manipulation.
Convenient Testing Access Nationwide
Our testing facilities in Bolton, MA, and across the nation ensure easy access to reliable services. With numerous locations, scheduling and completing your drug tests is hassle-free, providing convenience without compromising on quality or efficiency.
Confidential and Easy Process
In Bolton, MA, the hair follicle testing journey is designed to be simple and confidential. From the moment you schedule your test to when you receive results, your privacy is paramount. Our process is user-friendly, ensuring clarity and discretion at every step.
Value Through Affordability
Bolton, MA businesses enjoy affordable pricing and quick turnaround times with our hair follicle testing services. By offering competitive rates, we ensure that all companies receive excellent value, along with the peace of mind that comes with fast, reliable results.
Precision and Speed Combined
In Bolton, MA, hair follicle drug testing stands out for its fast and accurate results. Its precision in detecting substance use is unmatched, making it a go-to method for those seeking reliable outcomes. The quick turnaround time does not compromise the test’s accuracy, ensuring you receive results that are both swift and dependable.
Ensured Compliance for Employers
Employers in Bolton, MA benefit from the peace of mind that hair follicle testing provides. By adopting this method, businesses can confidently maintain drug-free environments, adhering to necessary regulations while reducing potential legal complications, thus ensuring workplace safety.
