Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures biomarkers within the strands, offering an extended timeline of drug and alcohol history. If procured from close to the scalp, it offers an approximate three-month window for tracing drugs and alcohol. It's easy to collect, hard to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair sample of around 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, apt for screening and confirming. For EtG, add-ons, or tests that exceed 10 panels, a recommendation of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler's scale for accurate measurement. If scalp hair can't be provided, a similar volume of body hair might be used. The term "head hair" solely refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" covers all other types (facial, axillary, and such).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing drug test results involves four core stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the sample's entry into the laboratory's system. It involves verification of proper sample sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any outstanding data entries outside the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for drugs. While it is cost-effective for eliminating drug usage in many samples, positive screenings need confirmation to be legally viable. Presumptively positive samples from Screening require additional verification.
If Screening identifies a sample as presumptively positive, additional hair from the sample is readied for Extraction. This phase involves isolating drugs from hair at concentrations lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), illustrating the complexity of hair drug testing.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques confirm any positive screening results. All presumptive positive samples are washed if necessary before confirmation. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, excluding the scalp follicle.
Hair follicle testing in North Westport, MA is gaining traction over traditional urine tests due to its many advantages. This method offers superior detection accuracy and reliability, making it a preferred choice for many. With a much longer detection window, hair testing can provide a more comprehensive view of substance use history, making it a valuable tool for both employers and individuals.
In North Westport, MA, hair follicle testing provides an extended detection window of up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use history, far beyond the capabilities of traditional urine tests. This expanded timeframe is crucial for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace.
Ensuring sample integrity is paramount in North Westport, MA, where hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of tampering. The inherent nature of this method makes it resistant to adulteration, providing results that are both reliable and unquestionable. This attribute is essential for maintaining trust and accuracy in the testing process.
In North Westport, MA, convenience is key, with our wide network of nationwide testing centers. This ensures quick and easy access to hair follicle testing services. Local facilities are readily available, offering hassle-free testing experiences, underscoring our commitment to accessibility and innovation.
The process in North Westport, MA is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, each step is streamlined to address privacy concerns. Participants can be assured of a respectful and efficient process, enhancing confidence and ease of use in hair follicle testing.
Our services in North Westport, MA stand out with affordable pricing and fast turnaround times. These competitive advantages make hair follicle testing a valuable option for companies of all sizes, ensuring quality results promptly and economically, enhancing the overall value proposition.
In North Westport, MA, hair follicle drug tests offer fast and reliable results. These tests are known for their precision and are capable of detecting a wide range of substances with high accuracy. The advantages over traditional methods are significant, ensuring that results are both accurate and delivered promptly, meeting the needs of various stakeholders.
Employers in North Westport, MA find peace of mind with hair follicle testing, which ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method helps reduce legal risks and enhance overall safety by providing comprehensive and reliable data about substance use, supporting a healthier work environment.
