Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair captures extended substance histories by preserving biomarkers within the shafts of hair strands as they grow. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of up to roughly three months for substances and alcohol. Hair gathering is straightforward, less prone to tampering, and easily transported.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (resembling the size of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp provides around 100mg of hair, which is ideal for testing and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or assessments exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. “Head hair” specifically refers to scalp hair. “Body hair” encompasses all other hair types, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The key stages in laboratory processing for substance test results include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of the initial handling of a sample into a lab’s system. This encompasses validating the sample’s proper sealing and shipment, allocating a random laboratory accessioning number (LAN), and completing any required data entry absent in an electronic custody chain system.
Screening entails an initial swift check for substance abuse. While it remains a cost-effective approach for ruling out substance use in the majority of samples, a positive screening requires confirmation to be legally acceptable. Any samples preliminarily positive in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
If a sample returns presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is retrieved from the initial specimen for Extraction. In this stage, substances are extracted from hair at a significantly reduced concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing a challenging methodology.
Confirming any positive screening result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined per both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly called “hair follicle tests”, the analysis pertains to the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Brookline, MA
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing in Brookline, MA offers unmatched detection capabilities. The hair test's ability to identify substances over an extended duration and its resistance to tampering make it a superior choice. Employers and agencies prefer it for greater accuracy and consistent results compared to its urine counterpart, ensuring reliable practices.
Extended Detection Window in Brookline, MA
The hair follicle drug test in Brookline, MA, provides an extensive detection window, offering insights into an individual's substance use history spanning up to 90 days. This contrasts with the limited scope of urine tests, presenting a broad understanding of consumption patterns. Consequently, companies can assess applicants' or employees' long-term substance histories and make informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Brookline, MA
In Brookline, MA, hair follicle tests stand out for their significant resistance against tampering. This method curtails the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring the integrity of the process. This robust reliability offers stakeholders unquestionable results, reducing doubts about the authenticity of outcomes and elevating the trust within the testing system.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Brookline, MA
The widespread network of testing centers, including those in Brookline, MA, ensures swift, accessible solutions for drug testing needs. This expansive reach reduces effort, allowing individuals to undergo testing with ease and convenience. Nationwide availability delivers seamless service accessibility, aligning with local demands and offering clients exceptional convenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Brookline, MA
The hair follicle testing methodology in Brookline, MA, is designed to be straightforward and discreet. The process—from order to result—is streamlined, protecting personal data while simplifying participant experience. Privacy concerns are diligently addressed, ensuring complete confidentiality and instilling confidence in individuals utilizing this testing service.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Brookline, MA
In Brookline, MA, our hair follicle drug testing services boast competitive pricing structures coupled with rapid result availability. This swift turnaround, combined with cost-effective solutions, ensures clients receive exceptional value. Organizations, regardless of size, benefit from this affordability, promoting informed decisions and sustained operational effectiveness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Brookline, MA
Hair follicle drug testing provides rapid, precise results, ensuring the highest level of accuracy for detecting drug use. In Brookline, MA, this method surpasses other testing options by offering comprehensive data, swiftly acknowledging any substance consumption in individuals while upholding the dependability desired by all concerned stakeholders.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Brookline, MA
Hair follicle testing assures compliance with workplace drug-free policies in Brookline, MA, minimizing organizational legal risks. This safe, effective solution fosters enhanced workplace safety and stability. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their workforce abides by policy requirements, strengthening the integrity and security of operational environments.
