Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective resource for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By encasing biomarkers within the fibers of a developing hair strand, hair offers an extensive record of alcohol and drug use over time. If obtained near the scalp, hair can present a detection period of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and various drugs. Simple to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport, hair is an ideal specimen for testing.
Harvesting a 1.5-inch segment consisting of about 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) from the scalp area yields 100mg of hair, the preferred amount for examination and verification. For EtG, additional substances, and tests extending beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is recommended to weigh the sample. When scalp hair is inaccessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be gathered. References to head hair exclusively mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four key stages integral to processing a drug test result in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into a laboratory database. This process includes confirming proper sealing and shipment of the sample, disbursing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling out any supplementary data entry missed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening commences with a swift assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical means to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be validated to be court-permissible. Any samples preliminarily positive in Screening necessitate additional verification.
If a sample tests preliminary positive during Screening, additional hair is sourced from the primary specimen for Extraction. This phase sees drugs extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair drug screening is the most complex method.
Verification of any positive screening outcome is undertaken via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples are cleaned as necessary before confirmation. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though they are often called "hair follicle tests", the test evaluates the hair strand rather than the hair follicle below the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rockville, MA
In Rockville, MA, hair follicle testing triumphs over urine tests through superior detection accuracy and reliability. Compared to traditional urine testing, hair testing offers a longer detection window, making it particularly effective for employers enforcing strict drug-free policies. With its enhanced ability to reveal a broader spectrum of substance use, hair testing is more efficient in upholding workplace safety.
Extended Detection Window in Rockville, MA
Hair follicle testing in Rockville, MA can identify drug use over an extended timespan, up to 90 days. This extended detection period offers employers comprehensive insights into an applicant's or employee's substance use history. Such long-term detection capabilities make hair analysis an ideal choice for tracking and ensuring substance-free environments over longer periods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rockville, MA
In Rockville, MA, hair follicle tests are renowned for their resistance to tampering. Their robustness in preventing sample adulteration guarantees reliable and unquestionable results. This tamper-proof nature makes hair analysis a preferred choice, providing confidence and assurance in the accuracy and integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rockville, MA
Benefit from the convenience of our widespread testing centers, including those in Rockville, MA, offering a seamless experience. Our extensive network ensures quick, hassle-free access to testing services, regardless of location. Nationwide and locally, this accessibility ensures that testing is within easy reach, facilitating efficient compliance and screening processes.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rockville, MA
The hair follicle testing process in Rockville, MA ensures simplicity and confidentiality, making it easy to order, undergo, and receive results. Addressing privacy concerns, this method stands out for its user-friendly nature, streamlining the steps involved in drug testing. Confidentiality is maintained throughout, ensuring peace of mind for all those involved in the testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rockville, MA
In Rockville, MA, our hair follicle testing stands out for its competitive pricing and swift turnaround times. Providing excellent value for companies of all sizes, these attributes enhance the appeal of hair testing, as it combines cost-effectiveness with prompt delivery of results, offering substantial benefits to employers and maintaining budget-friendliness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rockville, MA
Hair follicle testing in Rockville, MA offers unmatched precision and speed, delivering highly accurate results in identifying substance use. This method ensures the detection of drugs and alcohol efficiently, providing peace of mind through reliable outcomes. Its technological advancement ensures that results are delivered not only accurately but also swiftly, making it superior in many aspects.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rockville, MA
Employers in Rockville, MA can achieve compliance and peace of mind utilizing hair follicle testing, ensuring adherence to workplace drug-free policies. This method diminishes legal risks and enhances workplace safety, proving invaluable particularly for sectors imposing stringent no-drug standards. Hair tests provide a trusted solution for maintaining a compliant and secure work environment.
