Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair screening is now recognized as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged history of alcohol and drug usage by encasing biological markers within the fibers of the grown hair strand. When gathered near the scalp, it can offer up to nearly a 90-day detection timeframe for alcohol and substances. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy for shipping.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for analysis and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. We advise measuring the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair is inaccessible, an equivalent portion of body hair may be gathered. In reference to head hair, we mean solely scalp hair. Body hair covers all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages in the lab processing of a substance test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning relates to the initial handling of a sample into a lab’s framework. This step includes verifying that the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not managed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial rapid evaluation for substance misuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective method to eliminate drug usage in the majority of cases, a positive screen must be confirmed to hold up in legal settings. Any samples showing a presumptive positive in Screening require further confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. During this phase, substances are drawn from hair at lower concentrations than seen in other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), illustrating why hair drug screening is the most challenging technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screen result is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive cases undergo washing prior to confirmation as needed. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While frequently dubbed as "hair follicle tests", the procedure actually examines the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Wellesley, MA
Hair follicle tests offer numerous advantages over traditional urine analysis. Their superior detection accuracy and reliability make them an invaluable tool for employment screenings. Unlike urine tests, which have limited detection windows, hair tests can uncover substance use over a considerable period, providing a more comprehensive view of an individual's habits.
Extended Detection Window in Wellesley, MA
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its ability to detect drug use over a much longer timeframe, up to 90 days. This provides employers with a thorough understanding of an employee or applicant's substance use history. Such insight aids in making informed hiring decisions, maintaining a workforce that aligns with company values and regulations.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Wellesley, MA
The reliability of hair follicle tests is unmatched, as they significantly minimize the risk of sample tampering. These tests are conducted under strict supervision, ensuring the integrity of the sample. This tamper-resistant quality provides employers with confidence in the accuracy of the results, thus supporting a drug-free workplace policy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Wellesley, MA
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers ensures accessibility and convenience for all. Whether you are in Wellesley or any other city, our local and national locations offer easy and hassle-free access to testing services, helping businesses maintain compliance with minimal disruption.
Simple, Confidential Process in Wellesley, MA
The process of ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is designed with simplicity and confidentiality in mind. Our procedures address concerns about privacy, ensuring that test-takers experience ease of use and trust in the protection of their personal information, resulting in a straightforward and secure testing journey.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Wellesley, MA
We offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround for our hair follicle drug tests, delivering exceptional value for companies of all sizes. Quick results paired with affordable costs ensure businesses can effectively manage their budgeting while maintaining the standards of a drug-free workplace.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Wellesley, MA
Hair follicle drug tests deliver unmatched precision and swiftness in detecting substance use. Their remarkable accuracy ensures dependable results, crucial for employers seeking to maintain a drug-free environment. With rapid turnaround times, these tests provide the reliability needed for urgent decision-making in professional settings, ensuring continued productivity and safety.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Wellesley, MA
Hair follicle testing aids in adhering to workplace drug-free policies, bringing peace of mind to employers. By reducing legal risks and enhancing workplace safety, these tests are a valuable resource in upholding compliance and fostering a professional environment that prioritizes employee welfare and productivity.
