Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Hanover, MA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has emerged as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and drug presence by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can reflect approximately a 3-month history for detecting alcohol and drugs. The collection process for hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.

An ideal sample measures 1.5 inches and includes about 200 strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil), yielding 100mg of hair for effective testing and verification. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or tests exceeding ten panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. We advocate weighing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, a corresponding amount of body hair can be taken. References to head hair pertain exclusively to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types like facial and axillary hair.

Process Overview

There are four primary steps in the laboratory processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning initiates the sample integration into a laboratory’s framework. This process confirms that the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and fills in any additional information not covered by an electronic chain of custody.

Screening acts as an initial rapid evaluation for drug abuse. Even though Screening is a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use in the majority of samples, a positive result needs confirmation for courtroom acceptability. Samples indicating a presumptive positive in Screening require further verification.

Should a sample appear positive during Screening, more hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a complex methodology.

Confirmation of every positive result from screening is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleaned as needed before confirmation. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, surpassing the shorter window of urine tests.
• Hard to tamper: Given the complexity of cheating a hair drug test, the results are more reliable.
• Offers historical insight: It can reveal drug use trends over time rather than just recent activities.

Limitations:

• Unable to detect recent use: Drugs take about 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Cost: Hair drug tests typically incur higher expenses compared to alternative testing methods.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and individual differences in hair growth may influence drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Although referred to as "hair follicle tests", this test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle under the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in West Hanover, MA: When comparing hair and urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior results in reliability and detection accuracy. Unlike urine tests, which cover a shorter detection window, hair tests reveal a broader scope of substance history. Employers gain a more comprehensive understanding of drug use patterns, leading to better hiring choices.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in West Hanover, MA: Hair follicle testing provides insights into an individual's drug history over an extended duration, reaching up to 90 days. This longer window allows employers to obtain a thorough view of substance habits, assisting in the evaluation of applicants and existing employees and facilitating informed decision-making.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in West Hanover, MA: Hair follicle drug testing offers a robust solution against sample tampering. Its sophisticated collection and analysis process ensures samples remain unaltered, providing results that are both trustworthy and unquestionable. This method significantly minimizes the risk of manipulation, reinforcing its validity.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in West Hanover, MA: Our testing network spans across the nation, offering convenient access to services. With local centers in West Hanover, MA, testing becomes a quick and straightforward endeavor, facilitating easy access without compromising efficiency or quality of service.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in West Hanover, MA: The process for ordering, performing, and receiving results of hair follicle tests is designed to be straightforward and discreet. This approach ensures personal privacy is respected, all while maintaining the simplicity and efficiency required for an effective testing experience.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in West Hanover, MA: We boast competitive pricing plans alongside swift turnaround times for our hair follicle testing services. This commitment to cost-efficiency and rapid processing guarantees excellent value, aiding businesses of various sizes in maintaining a responsible operation without financial strain.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in West Hanover, MA: Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and dependable results. Offering rapid turnarounds, these tests accurately detect substance use, ensuring employers receive reliable data to make informed decisions. The method's precision aids in swiftly identifying substance presence with minimal waiting periods for results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in West Hanover, MA: Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures that businesses adhere to drug-free workplace policies, reducing potential legal liabilities. This approach bolsters workplace safety and builds a secure environment for employees, promoting peace of mind for both management and staff alike.

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