Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and substances by retaining biomarkers within the fibers of the hair that is growing. When cut near the scalp, hair offers a detection period extending up to roughly three months for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to mail.
A 1.5-inch section comprising around 200 hairs (similar to the girth of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal volume for testing and validation. For EtG, extra tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair isn’t accessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be obtained. Head hair specifically indicates scalp hair. Any other hair, like facial or axillary, is termed body hair.
Process Overview
Laboratory procedures for processing a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial task of registering a sample within the lab’s database. This process covers verifying correct sealing and shipment of the sample, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing supplementary data input not available through an electronic chain of custody network.
Screening is an initial assessment for substance abuse. While economically efficient for eliminating drug usage in most samples, a positive result in Screening mandates additional verification to be legally valid. Samples that show a potentially positive outcome during Screening require subsequent verification.
Should a sample exhibit a probable positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, substances are withdrawn from hair at a lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug analysis the most challenging to execute.
Confirming any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Every presumptively positive sample is cleansed prior to necessary confirmation. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Advantages of Hair Follicle Testing Over Urine Testing
In Colebrook, NH, hair follicle testing stands out as a superior alternative to urine tests. Its advanced detection capabilities make it a valuable tool for those seeking thorough drug screening. Compared to urine tests, hair testing offers unmatched accuracy and reliability, providing peace of mind in professional environments.
Extended Detection Period with Hair Testing
In Colebrook, NH, hair follicle tests are pivotal for long-term substance use detection. The detection window far exceeds traditional methods, revealing drug history up to 90 days. This provides employers with an in-depth view of an individual's drug habits, crucial for workforce safety and integrity.
Defending Against Tampering
Hair follicle testing in Colebrook, NH, significantly reduces the chances of tampering. This method offers a resilient approach to drug testing, making it nearly impossible to alter results illicitly. Employers benefit from dependable and undeniable testing processes.
Testing Convenience in Colebrook and Nationwide
With testing centers across the country, including Colebrook, NH, obtaining a hair follicle drug test is simple and hassle-free. The widespread availability ensures that clients can quickly access the services they need for reliable and timely evaluations.
Simplified and Confidential Hair Testing Process
In Colebrook, NH, our hair follicle testing service offers a straightforward and confidential experience. The process is designed with customer ease and privacy in mind, from ordering tests to accessing results, ensuring comfort at every step.
Cost-Effective and Swift Results in Hair Testing
Our pricing approach in Colebrook, NH remains competitive, offering excellent value without compromising quality. With quick turnaround times, clients receive prompt and satisfactory outcomes, providing businesses with peace of mind and fiscal relief.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Excels in Speed and Accuracy
In Colebrook, NH, hair follicle drug tests offer rapid and reliable results. Unlike traditional tests, they provide precise insights into substance use. The detection methods employed are highly accurate, making them a preferred choice for timely assessments with assured validity.
Ensuring Employer Compliance and Security
In Colebrook, NH, adopting hair follicle testing helps employers maintain compliance with stringent drug-free workplace policies. This robust screening approach mitigates legal concerns, promoting a safe and productive work environment.