Hair Follicle Drug Testing - South Glens Falls, NY

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is recognized as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by capturing biomarkers within its fibers as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to roughly three months for alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.

A sample sized at 1.5 inches with about 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp produces 100mg of hair, deemed the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to measure the sample weight using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent collection of body hair is an option. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair only. Body hair pertains to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four essential phases involved in the lab processing of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning consists of the preliminary handling of a sample into the lab's system. This step involves confirming that the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody platform.

Screening consists of an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Though Screening is a cost-effective method for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen warrants confirmation to be accepted in legal scenarios. All samples that demonstrate a presumptive positive in Screening must undergo additional confirmation.

If a sample shows a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and set for Extraction. During this process, drugs are isolated from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is among the most challenging methodologies to execute.

Confirmation of any positive Screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Every presumptive positive sample undergoes washing before confirmation as required. The whole lab workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and accreditation according to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a shorter detection period.
• Hard to manipulate: It is exceedingly challenging to fake a hair drug test, ensuring higher accuracy in results.
• Provides chronological data: It offers a pattern of drug use over time, not merely recent usage.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: It takes about 5-7 days for substances to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests often have higher costs compared to other drug testing methods.
• Variability in results: Elements like hair color and individual differences in hair growth can impact drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the test itself evaluates the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When compared to urine tests, hair follicle testing in South Glens Falls, NY offers undeniable advantages in terms of detection accuracy. With a detection window of up to 90 days, hair tests scrutinize long-term drug use more effectively, surpassing the brief scope of urine tests that usually capture recent usage.

The reliability of hair testing eliminates the risk of sample adulteration common with urine tests. Employers benefit from robust screening of employees, ensuring adherence to company policies while preventing drug use influence in the workplace.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in South Glens Falls, NY boasts an extended detection window unlike any other method. Able to detect substance use up to 90 days prior, it offers employers detailed insight into long-term drug habits. Such a comprehensive view aids in informed decision-making regarding hiring and employee monitoring.

While other tests only look back a few days, hair testing assesses lengthy histories of drug use, acting as a significant tool for companies ensuring consistent adherence to drug policies among employees, fostering a safer working environment.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

One of the standout features of hair follicle tests in South Glens Falls, NY is their tamper-resistant methodology. Unlike urine specimens, which can be easily tampered with, hair samples are difficult to adulterate, ensuring that the results obtained are genuine and reliable.

This resistance to tampering provides security to employers, knowing that the results offer true reflection of an individual's drug use. It eliminates the potential for cheating, ensuring results are unquestionable and fully trustable for ensuring compliance with workplace standards.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Our testing centers in South Glens Falls, NY, along with nationwide facilities, offer convenience and accessibility. This network ensures swift and hassle-free testing services for all, reducing travel times and enabling quick testing appointments.

Employers and employees benefit from the local presence of these centers, facilitating easy access to high-caliber drug testing services, thus supporting timely drug testing processes integral to maintaining workplace policy compliance.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process of hair follicle testing in South Glens Falls, NY is both simple and confidential. From ordering to sample collection, each step is designed for ease of use and privacy, addressing potential user concerns effectively.

Moreover, the communication of results is discreet, ensuring that the information remains securely between employer and employee. This safeguards personal privacy while maintaining the integrity of the testing process, promoting confidence and trust in drug testing practices.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

With our competitive pricing structure and quick turnaround times in South Glens Falls, NY, hair follicle testing offers substantial value for employers of various sizes. Our services ensure that drug testing does not disrupt workplace operations with prolonged wait times for results.

Employers benefit from cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality, addressing company needs at a manageable cost and ensuring accurate, timely responses to substance use inquiries.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In South Glens Falls, NY, hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their speed and accuracy. Unlike traditional methods, hair tests swiftly provide results within a few days, ensuring employers can make decisions promptly. The precision of these tests means that even minute traces of substances are detected, offering a thorough assessment of drug use.

The high accuracy of hair tests makes them reliable for detecting a variety of drugs. With advanced technology, these tests distinguish between different substances, minimizing false positives. Employers can thus rely on these results for ensuring a drug-free workplace.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

In South Glens Falls, NY, hair follicle testing provides employers with peace of mind through assured compliance with drug-free workplace policies. The robust nature of hair testing supports legal adherence, reducing risks associated with workplace drug violations.

This confidence in the testing process fosters a safe working environment, with a reduction in substance-related incidents. Employers benefit from a clear conscience, knowing they are enforcing policies effectively and promoting safety and productivity in the workplace.

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