Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. The fibers of growing hair strands trap biomarkers, offering a long-term record of alcohol and drug use. By collecting hair close to the scalp, one can achieve a detection window of up to roughly three months for various substances. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A sample of around 1.5 inches, roughly 200 hair strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair—ideal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional panels beyond ten require 150mg of the sample. It's advisable to weigh the specimen with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair is an acceptable substitute. References to head hair imply scalp hair only, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result consists of four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the sample's initial processing into the lab system, including verification of proper sealing and shipping, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and handling any additional data not captured by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Though cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen needs further confirmation for legal proceedings. Any samples showing presumptive positives in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
Presumed positive samples from Screening are further processed by extracting additional hair from the main specimen for the Extraction step. In this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at a concentration lower than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Positive screening confirmations employ GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Three Rivers, MA Hair testing provides superior benefits over traditional urine tests. Its enhanced accuracy in detecting drug use patterns is unmatched, offering employers a reliable alternative.
Comparison Hair follicle tests present clearer evidence due to a longer detection window. That makes them ideal for enforcing company drug policies.
Extended Detection Window in Three Rivers, MA Hair follicle drug tests can track drug usage over an extended period, up to 90 days. This feature allows employers to gain a thorough insight into an individual’s substance history.
Comprehensive Overview With a longer detection period, employers can make more informed decisions regarding the employment status and history of drug use of prospective and current employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Three Rivers, MA Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the chances of sample adulteration, providing reliable outcomes. Its observed collection process adds an extra layer of security.
Integrity This method ensures genuine results, essential for maintaining trust and transparency in the testing process, making it nearly foolproof.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Three Rivers, MA Our extensive network of testing centers, including facilities in Three Rivers, ensures hassle-free access. Testing is quick and easy for all individuals needing these services.
Accessibility Our local presence eliminates the inconvenience of lengthy travel or wait times, making testing a smooth experience from start to finish.
Simple, Confidential Process in Three Rivers, MA Our hair follicle testing procedure is straightforward and ensures privacy. From ordering to obtaining results, we prioritize ease of use and confidentiality.
Discreet Our process respects personal privacy rights, thereby allowing individuals and companies to conduct testing without undue interference or stress.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Three Rivers, MA Our competitive pricing structure and speedy result turnaround offer exceptional value.
Value for Money By providing cost-effective services without compromising on accuracy, we cater to businesses of varying sizes, promoting financial and operational efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Three Rivers, MA Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision and speed in analyzing substance use. These tests deliver high accuracy rates, ensuring rapid detection outcomes.
Efficiency With expedited results, businesses can quickly make informed decisions. The streamlined process of hair testing highlights its effectiveness in maintaining a substance-free environment.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Three Rivers, MA Engaging in hair follicle testing helps organizations adhere to drug-free policies, mitigating legal vulnerabilities.
Enhanced Safety With accurate results, employers cultivate a safer workplace environment, fostering trust while minimizing the risks associated with substance misuse among staff.
