Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for detecting the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair retains a prolonged record of drug and alcohol consumption by encapsulating biomarkers within its growing strands. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer up to a 3-month period for detecting alcohol and drug use. The collection process is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient for transportation.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil), from the scalp, equates to about 100mg, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For tests such as EtG, add-ons, and those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. We suggest the use of a jeweler’s scale to measure the sample. When scalp hair isn't available, a comparable quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair concern scalp hair exclusively, whereas body hair pertains to other types like facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory process for drug testing involves four major stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the commencement of sample processing in a laboratory system. This phase includes verifying the secure sealing and shipping of samples, assigning a unique random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment for illegal drug presence. Although Screening is an economical way to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive screen needs confirmation for legal validity. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than in methodologies like urine or oral fluid testing, underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive Screening outcomes is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive samples are washed prior to confirmation when necessary. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is stringently evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly dubbed "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Benefits Over Traditional Urine Tests: Hair tests in North Attleboro possess superior detection capabilities, offering a broader usage history over urine tests. Their extended window enhances reliability and accuracy in drug testing.
Enhanced Detection Accuracy: North Attleboro opts for hair testing due to its accuracy. Unlike urine tests, hair tests offer an extensive view of substance use, ensuring compliance with strict policies.
90-Day Detection Period: Hair follicle testing in North Attleboro offers an extensive detection period, capturing drug use history for up to 90 days. This gives employers a comprehensive perspective of user habits.
Comprehensive Drug Use History: Employers in North Attleboro value the extended window of hair testing, providing insight into long-term substance use, crucial for informed decisions regarding employment or retention.
Reduced Risk of Adulteration: Hair follicle tests in North Attleboro significantly lower the risk of sample tampering. Their robust process ensures test integrity, providing reliable and accurate drug test results.
Unquestionable Testing Integrity: Hair testing’s tamper-resistant nature in North Attleboro reassures accuracy. With fewer avenues for manipulation, it stands as a reliable testing method.
Nationwide Testing Access: Our widespread testing networks, including North Attleboro, provide seamless access to hair follicle testing facilities, enriching convenience for all seeking testing services.
Local & Easily Accessible: Residents of North Attleboro benefit from both local and national availability, ensuring quick and hassle-free drug testing whenever required.
Effortless and Confidential Process: The testing process in North Attleboro is both simple and private, safeguarding individual privacy while making the ordering and receiving of results straightforward.
Privacy and Simplicity Assured: North Attleboro ensures a confidential, streamlined process for hair testing, addressing privacy concerns while maintaining an easy user experience.
Competitive Pricing Structures: Hair follicle testing in North Attleboro is affordably priced, offering businesses of all sizes excellent value while ensuring swift results and peace of mind.
Quick Turnaround Times: Companies in North Attleboro benefit from rapid processing times coupled with cost-effective pricing, enhancing overall value and satisfaction in hair testing services.
Fast and Accurate Detection: Hair follicle drug tests in North Attleboro deliver quick, precise results. They effectively identify substance use with unmatched accuracy, making it a trusted choice for timely assessments.
Reliable Testing Outcomes: The precision and speed of hair follicle tests offer consistent, reliable results. This ensures that substance detection is not only swift but also dependable, fostering confidence in the testing process.
Compliance with Drug-Free Policies: Using hair follicle tests in North Attleboro, employers ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal implications and enhancing workplace safety and peace of mind.
Legal Assurance and Workplace Safety: Employers in North Attleboro gain reassurance from hair testing. By ensuring policy compliance, legal risks are reduced, strengthening overall workplace integrity.
