Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a valuable method for detecting drug and alcohol use. The hair captures a historical record of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When extracted close to the scalp, hair can offer a detection window of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and other drugs. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, with a low possibility of tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of around 200 strands of hair (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the perfect amount for screening and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels beyond 10, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It's advisable to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair might be collected. When discussing head hair, we refer solely to scalp hair. Body hair involves all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps involved in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory’s system. This step involves confirming that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening constitutes an initial swift review for drugs of abuse. While Screening offers a cost-effective approach to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for it to be acceptable in court. Any samples that yield a presumptive positive result in Screening require an additional confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In this process, drugs are drawn out from hair at a considerably lower concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is the reason hair drug screening is the most challenging methodology to execute.
Verification of any positive screening result is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the actual test examines the hair strand and not the hair follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Chatham, MA
In Chatham, MA, hair follicle testing stands superior to traditional urine tests due to its advanced detection capabilities and reliability. Hair tests reveal a more comprehensive history of substance use than urine tests.
The clear advantage is the extended detection period, providing employers and institutions with more accurate data. Hair testing surpasses the limitations of urine tests, offering detailed and trustworthy results.
Extended Detection Window in Chatham, MA
Hair follicle testing in Chatham, MA, uncovers drug use over an extended period, often up to 90 days, offering a thorough understanding of one's substance history. Employers benefit from this long-term view when assessing potential or current employees.
This method captures a broader timeline of drug use, helping employers make informed decisions. Its comprehensive detection window sets it apart from other testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Chatham, MA
Hair follicle tests in Chatham, MA, substantially minimize the potential for sample manipulation, ensuring that the results are reliable and valid. This robust method deters attempts of adulteration, safeguarding the integrity of the testing process.
The secure nature of hair testing makes it an ideal choice for unsullied results, reassuring institutions and individuals about its dependability and resilience against tampering.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Chatham, MA
With numerous testing centers nationwide, including in Chatham, MA, accessing our hair follicle testing services is seamless and straightforward. We offer quick, efficient, and hassle-free testing options across the country.
Our widespread facilities ensure that individuals and employers find a convenient location close by, simplifying the testing process without compromising accessibility.
Simple, Confidential Process in Chatham, MA
In Chatham, MA, our hair follicle testing process is both simple and confidential. Ordering, taking, and receiving test results is straightforward, addressing any privacy concerns while maintaining user-friendliness.
This privacy-conscious procedure ensures that clients can rely on the swift and discreet handling of their testing needs, offering ease of use and peace of mind.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Chatham, MA
In Chatham, MA, we offer hair follicle testing at competitive prices with quick turnaround times. Our pricing models provide excellent value, suitable for companies of any size, without breaking the bank.
Employers can benefit from cost-effective testing solutions that deliver prompt results, ensuring timely decisions without compromising economic efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Chatham, MA
Hair follicle drug tests provide unmatched precision and speed in detecting substance use in Chatham, MA. Their high accuracy makes them a preferred choice, ensuring that results are both dependable and swift.
The reliability of hair testing lies in its precise analysis, delivering results you can trust. This method ensures timely and accurate detection, reflecting efficient service for individuals and employers alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Chatham, MA
Hair follicle testing plays a crucial role in ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies in Chatham, MA. This method aids employers in mitigating legal risks and boosting workplace safety, providing peace of mind.
By integrating hair testing, companies demonstrate their commitment to a safe working environment, ensuring compliance and enhancing overall organizational wellbeing.
