Accredited Drug Testing offers comprehensive hair follicle drug testing in Middleton, Massachusetts. If you're in need of a drug or alcohol test, our expertise extends to hair testing, with centers available nationwide. Over 1.5 inches of hair is generally needed from the crown or body. These tests can identify drugs, alcohol/ETG, or be tailored for specific hair testing needs.
The hair follicle drug test has become increasingly popular in recent years for screening. Employers, judicial systems, and Substance Abuse professionals are opting for this testing over standard urinalysis. Organizations with stringent no-drug policies, legal entities, and probation services advocate for hair tests due to their prolonged detection span, usually up to 90 days, and the lack of vulnerability to tampering. However, for usage within the last 5 days, urine tests are still more precise.
* 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 testing is now regarded as an effective mechanism for uncovering drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a historical record of these substances due to biomarkers being embedded in its fibers during growth. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal substance use over an approximate period of three months. The method of collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transmit.
By taking a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hairs (similar in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, one can obtain 100mg of hair, which is optimal for analysis. For EtG, additional evaluations, and/or more than 10-panel tests, it is advised to collect 150mg. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is recommended to determine the specimen weight. In the absence of scalp hair, equivalent body hair may be used. It is important to note that head hair specifically indicates scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
The Accessioning phase incorporates the initial sample integration into the laboratory's system. This stage validates that the sample is correctly sealed and shipped, allocates a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concludes any supplementary data input absent in the electronic custody chain.
Screening involves a preliminary inspection for notorious drug use. Although Screening is an economical mode to dismiss drug consumption in most samples, a confirmatory step is required for admissibility in legal contexts. Any samples with a presumptive positive result in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
In case a sample shows a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample to prepare for Extraction. Here, drugs are derived from hair at a lower concentration compared to other methodologies (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis a challenging process.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples testing presumptively positive are subjected to washing before the confirmation, if necessary. The complete laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the guidelines of both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the procedures focus on examining the hair strand and not the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Middleton, MA
The advantages of hair follicle tests over traditional urine tests are numerous. While urine tests can be effective, hair tests offer a more thorough detection window, capturing substance use over a more extended period. This superior accuracy and reliability make them the preferred choice for institutions seeking comprehensive drug use history analysis.
Extended Detection Window in Middleton, MA
One of the key advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to track drug usage for up to 90 days. This extended detection period provides employers with a detailed view of an individual's substance use history, going far beyond the scope of other testing methods. By offering such in-depth analysis, it becomes invaluable for informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Middleton, MA
Hair follicle testing significantly lowers the chances of sample tampering, providing results that can be trusted. Unlike other methods that might be manipulated, hair testing offers a formidable barrier against adulteration, ensuring the integrity of each sample. This characteristic ensures that the outcomes are both credible and unquestionable.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Middleton, MA
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures that access to testing services is simple and convenient. Whether you're in Middleton or any part of the country, our facilities offer quick and hassle-free experiences. The nationwide availability means that precise and reliable results are always within reach, no matter your locale.
Simple, Confidential Process in Middleton, MA
The process for hair follicle testing is designed to be both uncomplicated and private. From the initial order to the receipt of results, every step is seamless, addressing users' concerns about confidentiality and simplicity. The straightforward nature of this process ensures that every client experience is reassuring and professionally managed.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Middleton, MA
Our competitive pricing structures and rapid result turnaround times make hair follicle testing a cost-effective solution for organizations. Not only does this offer excellent value, but it also delivers peace of mind quickly. Companies of all sizes can benefit from efficient and economical testing options, enhancing their operational decisions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Middleton, MA
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their exceptional speed and precision, offering results that are both reliable and accurate. In instances where immediate intervention is critical, these tests stand out as they rapidly detect substances. The high degree of accuracy ensures that decisions based on the test results are well-founded, reinforcing trust in the process.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Middleton, MA
By opting for hair follicle testing, employers reinforce their commitment to a drug-free workplace, aligning with compliance standards. This method not only reduces legal liabilities but also supports a safer work environment. Ensuring compliance through reliable testing allows organizations to maintain occupational safety and employee well-being.