Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When strands are close to the scalp, they can offer about a 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, moderately tough to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the perfect amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers strictly to scalp hair. Conversely, "body hair" includes all other types (facial, armpit, etc.).
Process Overview
The core stages in processing a laboratory drug test result encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails initially entering a sample into the laboratory’s system. This process confirms the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN) randomly, and completes any remaining data not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary evaluation for drug presence. While this step is cost-efficient for ruling out drugs in most samples, a positive screen necessitates further confirmation to be legally valid. Presumptive positive samples from Screening require secondary confirmation.
For samples flagged as presumptively positive in Screening, extra hair is extracted from the primary specimen for the Extraction phase. In Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair in far lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), rendering hair drug screening the most challenging method.
Confirmation of positive screening is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are washed before confirmation, if necessary. From Accessioning through Confirmation, the complete laboratory workflow is inspected under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although sometimes called "hair follicle tests", the actual examination focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hull, MA
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing presents superior detection capabilities. Able to trace substance use over an extended timeframe, it delivers unmatched accuracy and reliability. This makes it an ideal choice for organizations keen on maintaining stringent substance use standards and ensuring cleaner results.
Extended Detection Window in Hull, MA
Hair follicle testing offers a remarkable capability to trace drug consumption history up to 90 days. This extended detection period provides employers with a thorough overview of an individual's substance use, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of an applicant or employee's history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hull, MA
The robustness of hair follicle testing lies in its tamper-resistant nature. Unlike other methods, it minimizes the risk of sample tampering, delivering results that are both secure and beyond reproach. This reliability is invaluable when testing integrity is paramount.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Hull, MA
With our extensive network of testing centers, accessible nationwide, we offer prompt and hassle-free services. Whether in Hull or elsewhere, our testing locations are designed to ensure quick and seamless access to drug testing facilities.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hull, MA
Our process is both straightforward and private, catering to all concerns around discretion. From ordering to receiving results, each step is designed with confidentiality in mind, ensuring a user-friendly experience for all participants.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hull, MA
Our competitive pricing structure combined with quick turnaround times allows companies of all sizes to avail excellent service. This ensures affordability and value, easing the financial burden while delivering rapid results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hull, MA
Hair follicle drug tests are known for delivering swift and trustworthy outcomes. With their ability to precisely detect substance use, they rise above traditional methods in accuracy, ensuring that individuals are tested with precision. Their reliability makes them a preferred choice for those demanding rapid and correct drug screening results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hull, MA
Employers opting for hair follicle testing benefit from enhanced compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This approach not only mitigates legal liabilities but also heightens workplace safety, providing peace of mind to all stakeholders involved.
