Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair provides a long-term history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When taken from close to the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to three months for alcohol and other substances. Hair samples are easy to gather, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of approximately 200 strands of hair (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) taken nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the ideal quantity for initial analysis and confirmation. For EtG assessments, additional tests, or examinations exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. Specimens should be weighed using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is inaccessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically indicate scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory-processing cycle for a drug test encompasses four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the preliminary processing of a specimen into a lab's system. This step involves ensuring the sample is properly sealed and sent, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody framework.
Screening provides an initial rapid check for substances of abuse. While it is cost-efficient and useful for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be corroborated to be permissible in court. Samples with a presumptive positive outcome in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests positive during the Screening phase, further hair is extracted from the primary specimen to prepare for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at concentrations much lower than those found in alternate methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which renders hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening results is carried out through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The comprehensive laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and in conformity with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Choose Hair Over Urine Testing?
Hair follicle testing offers numerous advantages over traditional urine tests in Savoy, MA. This method guarantees higher detection accuracy and reliability, making it the preferred choice for detecting drug use.
The benefits of hair testing stem from its longer detection window and resistance to tampering. Employers are increasingly opting for hair tests over urine tests due to these superior features.
Extending the Detection Window
In Savoy, MA, hair follicle drug testing provides an extended detection window, capturing drug use over a 90-day period. This timeframe offers a comprehensive view of an individual's substance history.
Employers seeking thorough insight into an applicant's or employee's past behaviors favor hair testing. This method ensures a detailed assessment beyond the limited scope of urine tests.
Securing Results with Hair Testing
Hair follicle testing in Savoy, MA, is a tamper-resistant method, minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. This assures reliable and valid results present in every analysis.
The nature of hair tests provides an extra layer of security against falsified outcomes, giving employers and individuals confidence in the results obtained from this testing method.
Nationwide Access, Local Convenience
The testing services extend nationwide, including local availability in Savoy, MA, simplifying access to Accredited Drug Testing's centers.
With convenient testing locations across the country, our services are easily accessible. Get tested without hassle, locally or elsewhere, as per your needs.
Streamlined and Confidential
The hair follicle testing process in Savoy, MA, is both straightforward and private. From ordering to testing and receiving results, simplicity is ensured every step of the way.
Confidentiality and ease of use are paramount, addressing concerns related to privacy while maintaining efficiency in the testing procedure.
Cost-effective and Quick Results
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing in Savoy, MA, combined with a fast turnaround, providing excellent value for all company sizes.
Our affordable testing services ensure peace of mind for employers, guaranteeing timely and reliable results without exceeding budget constraints.
Precision and Quickness Redefined
Hair follicle testing stands out for its precision and promptness in Savoy. This method's accuracy is unparalleled in revealing substance use, boasting high reliability when compared to other tests.
Superior accuracy and swift processing make hair follicle tests the go-to choice for those seeking dependable results. For residents and employers in Savoy, this innovative testing ensures a fast and reliable identification of drug use.
Achieve Compliance and Assurance
Adopting hair follicle testing in Savoy, MA, supports compliance with drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal liabilities. This testing enhances the safety and trustworthiness of any working environment.
With hair testing, employers gain peace of mind knowing they are reducing risks while maintaining high standards of workplace safety and legal adherence.