In Lowell, Massachusetts, Accredited Drug Testing offers a full range of hair follicle drug tests. If you are in need of a hair or alcohol test, our nationwide locations provide efficient hair testing services. Typically, 1.5 to 2 inches of head or body hair is needed for testing. We offer comprehensive hair tests for drugs, alcohol/ETG, and other customized options.
Recently, hair follicle drug tests have become a preferred method for screenings. Both employers and legal entities like courts often opt for hair tests over urine tests due to their stricter drug use policies. This type of test is favored as it provides a longer detection window—up to 90 days—and is closely monitored, making it very difficult to manipulate. For detecting recent drug use within a five-day window, urine tests remain the more precise method.
* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center. You must bring a valid government issued ID along with the registration/barcode number which was sent to you by email.
When you're searching for hair drug testing near me or hair drug testing locations, we provide a simple and convenient process to find a drug and alcohol testing location near you that is certified to provide all of your drug and alcohol testing needs.
Hair analysis has increasingly been recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair is capable of providing an extended record of substance use by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands. When sourced close to the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 3-month detection period for both alcohol and other substances. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising approximately 200 hairs (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal sample size for testing and validation. For EtG additions or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing. If sufficient scalp hair is not available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be obtained. "Head hair" specifically references scalp hair, while "body hair" denotes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, samples are initially processed into the laboratory’s system. This step involves confirming that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. Although Screening is economical for negating drug use in most cases, any positive result requires confirmation for legal acceptance. Samples identified as presumptively positive in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
When a specimen indicates a presumptively positive result during Screening, more hair from the sample is prepared for Extraction. Here, substances are extracted from hair at significantly lesser concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), making hair drug testing notably challenging.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies are employed during Confirmation of any positive screening. All samples with presumptive positives undergo a washing step before Confirmation if needed. From Accessioning to Confirmation, every step is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to the accreditation of ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests", the procedure actually examines the hair shaft and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lowell, MA
Compared to urine tests, hair follicle testing stands out due to its superior detection accuracy and reliability. This form of testing not only captures long-term substance use but is also difficult to tamper with, ensuring that the results are trustworthy and beneficial for those who value thoroughness.
Extended Detection Window in Lowell, MA
Hair follicle testing offers an expansive detection window of up to 90 days, providing a broader understanding of an individual's substance history. This is especially beneficial for employers needing a comprehensive overview of a candidate’s or employee's long-term behavior patterns.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lowell, MA
One of the significant advantages of hair follicle tests is their tamper-resistant nature. Unlike urine samples, which can be adulterated, hair tests provide results that are both reliable and nearly unquestionable, mitigating any risks associated with dishonest sample manipulation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lowell, MA
With numerous nationwide testing centers, including local options in Lowell, MA, accessing hair follicle drug testing has never been easier. Our centers offer quick and hassle-free testing services, ensuring that you receive the care and attention you need.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lowell, MA
The hair follicle testing process is designed to be both simple and confidential. From ordering the test to obtaining the results, every step ensures privacy and ease of use, addressing any concerns regarding personal data and accessibility.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lowell, MA
We boast competitive pricing structures and fast turnaround times, making our services highly valuable and ensuring peace of mind for businesses of all sizes. This balance of affordability and efficiency positions us as a preferred choice in the drug testing industry.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lowell, MA
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision and speed in detecting substances. This method ensures that results are not only highly accurate but also delivered swiftly, making it an invaluable option for both employers and individuals seeking comprehensive substance use information.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lowell, MA
Implementing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, reduces legal risks, and enhances workplace safety. Employers gain peace of mind from knowing their drug-testing process is compliant and thorough.
