Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective technique for identifying substance and alcohol use. The hair retains biomarkers in the strands of its fibers as it grows, offering a lengthy timeline of alcohol and drug use. When taken near the scalp, hair can present an estimated detection window of up to three months for such substances. The process of collecting hair is uncomplicated, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch length of approximately 200 hair strands, similar in size to a #2 pencil and gathered near the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for initial and confirmatory testing. For EtG, additional, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample size of 150mg is recommended. It's advised to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically pertains to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The key phases in processing a drug test in a laboratory are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the commencement of sample processing within a laboratory system. This phase includes ensuring the sample’s seal and shipment is proper, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing other required data entries absent in an electronic custody chain system.
Screening is a preliminary, economical evaluation to check for drugs of abuse, which serves to exclude drug usage in most samples. However, a positive screen result must undergo confirmation to be valid in court. Presumptive positives in Screening necessitate further confirmatory testing.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is sourced from the original sample for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at markedly lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluids), explaining why hair drug testing is considered the most intricate testing methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All presumptive positive specimens are cleansed before confirmation when required. The complete lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though termed "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is performed on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Surpasses Urine Testing
In Gill, MA, hair testing offers distinct advantages over the traditional urine test. Unlike urine tests that detect recent use, hair follicle tests can analyze longer-term substance history, offering unparalleled precision.
For organizations mandating strict substance-free environments, hair testing provides comprehensive, accurate results that prevent any attempt of deceit.
Extended Detection Window in Gill, MA
Hair follicle analysis shines in its ability to detect drug use over spans of up to 90 days. This extensive window grants employers a detailed overview of an individual’s substance use habits.
The prolonged detection period is invaluable for businesses or entities requiring an in-depth understanding of a potential hire's or employee’s past drug use.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Gill, MA
Hair follicle testing dramatically lowers the risk of sample adulteration, providing results that are credible and trustworthy. Unlike other testing methods, cheating in hair tests is nearly impossible, ensuring the integrity and authenticity of the results.
Employers gain confidence in making informed decisions based on trustworthy data.
Convenient Testing Locations Across Gill, MA
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers offers hassle-free access to drug testing services. This availability ensures that individuals and companies swiftly receive the tests they require at local vicinity centers.
Seamless access to testing ensures efficiency and reliability for everyone involved.
Simple and Confidential Testing Process
Gill, MA residents can enjoy a straightforward and discreet process when scheduling, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results. We prioritize user privacy and ease of use.
Concerns about confidentiality are mitigated with our robust branding, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
Affordable and Efficient Testing Solutions
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing with rapid test turnaround in Gill, MA, providing exceptional value and assurance to businesses of varying scales.
We pride ourselves on offering cost-effective pricing without compromising on quality and speed, granting companies the clarity they need promptly.
Fast and Accurate Results in Gill, MA
Hair follicle testing ensures rapid and precise substance detection, crucial for its reliability. The ability to quickly identify substance use provides employers and individuals with peace of mind, knowing they have the most accurate test results at their disposal.
These tests set a benchmark for detecting various substances with precision, proving to be indispensable for employers aiming for efficient and trustworthy evaluations.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety in the Workplace
In Gill, MA, hair follicle testing helps sustain a drug-free workplace by ensuring compliance with necessary policies. With rigorous testing results, companies mitigate legal risks and enhance their safety standards.
Employers can uphold peace of mind by knowing they are promoting a secure environment for their staff.
