Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By encasing biomarkers within the fibers of developing hair strands, hair offers a prolonged record of substance use. Generally, when hair is sampled near the scalp, it provides a detection range of nearly three months for alcohol and various drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil’s thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or screenings exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for specimen weighing is suggested. If scalp hair isn't obtainable, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. When we mention head hair, we mean scalp hair only. Body hair includes all other types of hair (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases of laboratory handling for a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the introductory phase of integrating a sample into the laboratory’s system. This step comprises checking that the sample is correctly sealed and dispatched, allotting a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any further data input absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for illicit substances. Although Screening is a budget-friendly approach to exclude drug use in the majority of samples, a positive screen necessitates Confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples with a presumptively positive Screening demand a secondary confirmation process.
If a sample is provisionally positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the primary specimen and readied for Extraction. At this phase, substances are extracted from hair at a considerably lower concentration than in other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva), rendering hair drug screening as the most intricate method to execute.
Confirmation for any positive Screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive are cleansed before confirmation as required. Throughout the entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation, both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards oversee the review.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the examination actually focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Montague, MA Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests due to its superior detection capabilities. While urine tests provide immediate, short-term results, hair testing offers a long-term view, capturing a history of up to 90 days. This makes hair testing a preferred choice for employers requiring thorough and reliable drug screenings.
Extended Detection Window in Montague, MA One of the key advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to trace drug use over an extended period, offering up to 90 days of history. This comprehensive view allows employers to better assess an individual's substance habits, making informed hiring and retention decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Montague, MA Hair follicle tests considerably reduce the potential for sample tampering. As the process involves collecting samples under supervision, it ensures reliable results that cannot be easily manipulated, thus maintaining the integrity of the testing process in various settings.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Montague, MA With a network of testing centers across the nation, accessing hair follicle drug testing is swift and easy. Our conveniently located centers provide hassle-free services, ensuring rapid and efficient testing for all clients, making the process as smooth as possible.
Simple, Confidential Process in Montague, MA Our streamlined, confidential testing process ensures privacy from start to finish. Ordering, undergoing testing, and receiving results are managed with discretion, addressing any concerns about privacy while ensuring ease and comfort for all clients involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Montague, MA We offer competitive pricing structures paired with swift turnaround times. Our services provide excellent value, ensuring businesses of all sizes can access essential testing without burdening their budgets, while enjoying quick and reliable test results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Montague, MA Hair follicle drug tests deliver results with exceptional speed and accuracy. They are known for their precision in identifying drug use, providing both employers and individuals with dependable outcomes. This testing method is highly effective for maintaining integrity in professional settings and personal screenings.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Montague, MA Hair follicle testing provides employers with assurance in maintaining drug-free workplaces. By following this testing method, companies can ensure compliance with drug policies, reduce legal liabilities, and promote a safer working environment for all employees.
