Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now widely regarded as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands' fibers as they grow. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol consumption over an approximate three-month period. Collecting hair is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.
A 1.5-inch section comprising roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield the 100mg of hair needed for optimal screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels above 10, a specimen of 150mg is preferable. We suggest measuring the specimen with a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, the equivalent amount of body hair is an acceptable alternative. When addressing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair pertains to all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The procedure for processing a drug test result in a laboratory encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the sample's initial entry into the laboratory's system. This consists of checking that the sample was appropriately sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary check for substance abuse. Though Screening serves as a cost-efficient strategy to negate drug usage for most samples, positive results need confirmation for court admissibility. Samples testing presumptively positive in Screening necessitate a subsequent verification.
For samples testing presumptively positive during Screening, further hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. During this phase, drugs are extracted at a notably lower concentration in hair compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), which makes hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is carried out through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before Confirmation if required. The whole processing sequence—from Accessioning to Confirmation—is audited according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often referred to as "hair follicle tests," the evaluation focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Montgomery, NY
In Montgomery, NY, hair follicle tests offer a distinct advantage over urine tests. They provide superior detection accuracy and reliability, even when faced with complex cases. This method ensures a more comprehensive overview of drug use, outpacing traditional urine tests significantly.
Extended Detection Window in Montgomery, NY
One major benefit of hair follicle testing in Montgomery, NY, is the extended detection period. Unlike other tests, it can reveal drug use over the past 90 days, giving employers a thorough understanding of a candidate's or employee's substance use history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Montgomery, NY
Hair follicle testing greatly minimizes the chances of sample tampering, providing results that are both reliable and indisputable. This resilience makes it an ideal option for those looking for an uncompromised testing method.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Montgomery, NY
With a vast network of nationwide testing centers, obtaining testing services is quick and easy. Especially in Montgomery, NY, we ensure hassle-free access for everyone looking for reliable drug testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Montgomery, NY
The process of ordering, performing, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential in Montgomery, NY. We ensure your privacy while delivering a seamless experience throughout your testing journey.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Montgomery, NY
Our competitive pricing structures and quick result turnaround make hair follicle testing a cost-effective option in Montgomery, NY. We offer great value, ensuring peace of mind for organizations of various sizes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Montgomery, NY
Hair follicle drug tests provide fast and highly accurate results, making them an exceptional choice for detecting substance use. Their precision ensures that the results you receive are both reliable and timely, giving you the assurance you need in crucial situations.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Montgomery, NY
Employing hair follicle testing methods in Montgomery ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, thus mitigating legal risks. This practice enhances overall workplace safety, granting peace of mind for employers.
