Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly regarded as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures long-term usage of substances by encasing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When collected close to the scalp, hair can reflect drug or alcohol use up to a period of about three months. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, less susceptible to tampering, and convenient for transportation.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with approximately 200 strands of hair (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp will weigh around 100mg, which is the ideal amount for effective screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels beyond 10, a 150mg sample is advised. It's advisable to use a jeweler’s scale for the specimen measurement. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent portion of body hair can be collected. When mentioning head hair, this refers specifically to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The procedure for processing drug test results in a lab involves Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the lab's system. This step includes ensuring the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry not given by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for drug abuse. Although it's an economical approach to eliminate drug usage in most samples, any positive results in Screening require confirmation to be legally valid. Presumptive positive samples must undergo further verification.
Should a sample be presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction stage. Here, the extraction of drugs from hair occurs at a much lower concentration in comparison to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening is more complex.
Confirmation of any positive results from Screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are washed as necessary before confirmation. The entire lab process, from Accessioning through to Confirmation, is conducted under the endurance of CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is actually performed on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hudson, MA
Hair testing provides distinct advantages over traditional urine tests by offering superior detection accuracy and reliability. It captures comprehensive data on substance use, effectively serving the needs of those upholding zero-tolerance policies.
Compared to urine tests, which offer a limited detection window, hair tests ensure thorough monitoring over extended periods, supporting unwavering adherence to policy standards.
Extended Detection Window in Hudson, MA
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their ability to identify drug use over a prolonged period, typically up to 90 days. This extended window presents employers with a clear and thorough insight into the substance history of any testing individual.
Such an expansive detection ability empowers organizations to make informed decisions regarding candidate screening and employee evaluations, thus enhancing workplace assurance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hudson, MA
Employing hair follicle testing significantly reduces the chances of sample tampering or adulteration. This method ensures that the integrity of the test results is preserved, creating an unchallengeable basis for any legal or employment decisions.
Such reliability in the testing process provides peace of mind to employers, knowing that their screening protocols are robust and credible.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hudson, MA
Our testing centers are strategically placed nationwide to provide ready access to our comprehensive testing services, making the process hassle-free and efficient for clients everywhere, including locally in Hudson.
Such expansive locale support ensures that clients benefit from seamless testing services that fit into their busy schedules with minimal disruption.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hudson, MA
Our testing process is designed for simplicity and confidentiality, ensuring privacy is upheld from ordering to results delivery. This user-friendly protocol alleviates concerns related to security or complexity.
Employers and individuals can be assured of a seamless experience, maintaining discretion and providing ease of use throughout the testing lifecycle.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hudson, MA
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times ensure that our clients receive exceptional value. This combination of affordability and timeliness offers peace of mind to companies of all sizes, accommodating various budgetary needs.
We strive to deliver reliable results promptly, allowing businesses to keep essential operations uninterrupted.
Fast, Accurate, Reliable Results in Hudson, MA
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision and speed, crucial for accurately detecting substance usage. These tests are able to swiftly process and deliver reliable outcomes, making them the preferred choice for timely decision making.
With superior accuracy levels, these tests ensure confirmed identification of substances present in an individual’s system, assisting organizations in maintaining high standards of safety and integrity.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hudson, MA
Adopting hair follicle testing establishes a sound foundation for compliance with workplace policies on drug use, aligning with legal requirements and fostering a safer working environment.
This testing approach reduces potential legal risks while promoting a drug-free corporate culture, ensuring the integrity and reputation of businesses.
