Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Marlborough, MA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a historical record of drug and alcohol use by embedding biomarkers in the strands as they grow. When obtained near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A sample of 1.5 inches, roughly 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, the preferred sample quantity for screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, or an excess of 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. It's suggested to use a jeweler’s scale for measuring the specimen. If scalp hair is not an option, a comparable quantity of body hair can be gathered. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (face, underarm, etc.).

Process Overview

Four fundamental steps form the laboratory procedure for assessing drug test results: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial stage, involving integrating a sample into a laboratory’s workflow. This step verifies the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any data entry omitted by an automated chain of custody system.

Screening conducts a swift preliminary evaluation for substances of abuse. Although Screening is cost-efficient for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation for legal acceptance. Any samples with a presumptive positive in Screening must undergo further verification.

For samples indicating a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is sourced from the original sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted at a much lower concentration compared to other testing methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair drug screening poses the most complex challenge.

Confirmation of any positive screening findings is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples showing presumptive positivity receive a wash before confirmation as required. The complete laboratory process—from Accessioning to Confirmation—is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests, which have a more limited detection range.
• Hard to falsify: Cheating a hair drug test is exceedingly difficult, thus enhancing result reliability.
• Showcases usage history: It illustrates a drug use trend over time, rather than immediate usage.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect immediate use: Drugs become detectable in hair after approximately 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair drug testing usually incurs higher costs than other methods.
• Result variability: Factors like hair color and personal differences in hair growth can influence metabolite concentration in the hair.

Note: Despite the term "hair follicle tests" being common, the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Marlborough, MA, hair follicle testing emerges as a superior alternative to traditional urine tests. Its unmatched accuracy and reliability in substance detection make it the preferred choice.

Unlike conventional urine tests, hair testing offers broader detection capabilities. This method not only provides extended detection periods but also ensures results are more trustworthy by reducing the chances of tampering or deception.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Marlborough, MA, offers an extended detection window, capturing drug use up to 90 days prior. This provides employers with substantial insight into an individual's substance history.

With its prolonged assessment period, hair testing outperforms other methods, allowing for a thorough examination of substance use over time. This empowers employers to make informed decisions based on a more complete overview of an individual's habits.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

The hair follicle testing in Marlborough, MA, significantly minimizes the risk of tampering, ensuring results are reliable and conclusive. Unlike other methods, it offers a more secure testing process.

With robust prevention against sample adulteration, hair tests provide peace of mind. Employers and individuals can trust the outcomes to reflect true substance use, eliminating doubt about the procedure's integrity.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With conveniently located centers in Marlborough, MA, and nationwide, accessing hair follicle testing services is simple and hassle-free. Our widespread facilities ensure quick and easy appointments.

The extensive network of testing centers offers unparalleled convenience for individuals and businesses alike. Wherever you are, you can efficiently access the necessary testing services without unnecessary delay.

Simple, Confidential Process

Experience a simplified and private testing process in Marlborough, MA, with our confidential hair follicle testing services. Enjoy easy ordering, testing, and result delivery.

No need to worry about privacy concerns. Our process ensures your information remains confidential throughout, providing a seamless experience. Results are delivered promptly, enabling you to proceed with complete confidence.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Our affordable pricing and swift turnaround in Marlborough, MA, set us apart. We offer competitive rates ensuring you get excellent value.

Efficient service delivery further enhances the experience, providing peace of mind for businesses of all sizes. We are committed to making hair follicle testing both accessible and reliable, meeting your budget without compromising on speed or quality.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle drug tests in Marlborough, MA, deliver prompt and accurate results. Known for their precision, these tests swiftly detect substance use across many types, proving invaluable for timely assessments.

The high level of accuracy makes them a trusted resource for identifying potential drug use, providing quick and definitive insights. Employers benefit from reliable data, ensuring decisions are based on thorough and precise information.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Marlborough, MA, gain peace of mind using hair follicle tests for workplace compliance. This method supports drug-free policies, enhancing safety and minimizing legal risks.

Through hair testing, businesses can champion a secure environment. They enjoy confidence knowing that substance policies are effectively upheld, contributing to a positive and productive workplace culture.

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