Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers in the ongoing growth of the hair, it offers a comprehensive record of alcohol or drug intake. When harvested close to the scalp, hair can provide an approximate three-month detection period for alcohol and other drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch section containing roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional panels, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is recommended. If scalp hair cannot be used, a similar quantity of body hair may be collected. In reference to head hair, the focus is solely on scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in processing a drug test result within the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial intake of a sample into the lab system. This step verifies proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any outstanding data entry not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening comprises a preliminary quick assessment for drugs of abuse. Even though Screening is a cost-efficient method for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for court acceptability. Samples that test positive in Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
Should a sample indicate positivity in Screening, additional hair is taken from the original specimen for the Extraction stage. Drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Verification of any positive screening outcome is undertaken via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo a wash before confirmation as needed. The full laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests", the examination is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Leverett, MA, hair follicle testing presents clear advantages over traditional urine tests. Benefits include:
Hair follicle testing in Leverett, MA, provides a comprehensive view of an individual's substance use history by detecting drugs over a 90-day period. This extended window allows employers and authorities to have a clearer perspective on long-term habits. Such insight is invaluable for making informed decisions in employment and legal matters, ensuring a drug-free environment.
The robustness of hair follicle testing in Leverett, MA, is evident in its resistance to tampering. This method reduces the risk of adulteration and yields trustworthy results. With strict collection and testing procedures, hair follicle assessments offer reliable data that remains largely uncontested, providing assurance to employers and legal entities alike.
Our nationwide network of testing centers, including those in Leverett, MA, guarantees convenient and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. No matter where you are, finding a location nearby is simple, ensuring that testing needs are met quickly and efficiently without logistical burdens.
Opting for hair follicle testing in Leverett, MA, involves a simple and confidential process. From ordering to sample collection and receiving results, every step prioritizes privacy and ease. This ensures that individuals undergo testing without concerns of data breaches, maintaining the integrity of personal information throughout.
In Leverett, MA, hair follicle testing presents affordable pricing paired with fast turnaround times. These tests offer excellent value, especially for companies mindful of budgets. Dependable results delivered promptly empower businesses to make timely and informed decisions regarding employment and compliance.
Precision, speed, and reliability are hallmarks of hair follicle drug tests in Leverett, MA. Their ability to provide quick and accurate substance detection results makes them a preferred choice. The high level of accuracy ensures that the tests can discern recent substance intake with remarkable detail, offering peace of mind for those who rely on them for critical decision-making.
Employers in Leverett, MA, gain significant peace of mind with hair follicle testing as it ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This testing method minimizes legal concerns and enhances workplace safety, offering a reliable means of verifying employee sobriety over prolonged periods. As a result, companies can operate smoothly with less risk.
