Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Union, NY

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is acknowledged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a long-term record of alcohol and drug intake by embedding biomarkers in the fibers of a growing hair strand. When obtained near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and drug use. Hair is simple to gather, somewhat hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for analysis and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair may be obtained. When discussing head hair, we refer only to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four primary steps in the lab processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning includes the initial processing of a sample into a lab system. This step verifies proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug usage in the majority of samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be valid in legal situations. Samples that screened presumptively positive need an additional confirmation.

When a sample screens presumptively positive, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for preparation in the Extraction step. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is the most challenging methodology to execute.

Verification of any positive screening result is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples screening presumptive positive are cleansed before confirmation as required. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for as long as 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a shorter detection window.
• Challenging to manipulate: The difficulty in cheating a hair drug test results in greater accuracy.
• Offers historical insights: This test can highlight a drug use pattern over time, rather than just recent use.

Limitations:

• Inability to identify recent use: Drugs require about 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests typically cost more than other drug testing techniques.
• Result variability: Influences such as hair color and individual hair growth differences can impact drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Often called "hair follicle tests", the examination actually assesses the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Union, NY, hair follicle testing surpasses urine tests by offering enhanced accuracy and reliability. While traditional urine tests can indicate recent drug usage, they often fall short in providing a historical view of substance consumption. Hair testing, on the other hand, meticulously records drug use over an extended period, making it a preferable option.

Employers favor hair testing for its robust detection window and dependable results. Unlike urine tests that may be subject to manipulation or provide limited data, hair tests capture detailed information about substance use. This ensures compliance with strict drug-free workplace policies and a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's substance history.

Extended Detection Window

Union, NY employers benefit from hair follicle testing due to its extensive detection period of up to 90 days. This span enables a thorough assessment of an applicant or employee's substance consumption history, significantly aiding in making informed hiring and policy compliance decisions.

The lengthy detection window ensures that employers have access to comprehensive data regarding an individual's long-term substance use. This insight is invaluable for those aiming to maintain safe and productive work environments, as it ensures that critical decisions are based on reliable and comprehensive information.

The enduring detection capabilities of hair follicle testing help businesses remain vigilant in monitoring substance abuse, empowering them to maintain integrity and safety in the workplace.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests in Union, NY are recognized for their resistance to tampering, offering a high level of sample integrity. Unlike urine tests, which can be easily manipulated, hair tests preserve their reliability by inherently reducing the risk of adulteration, ensuring unquestionable results.

This significant advantage means that the possibilities for cheating are minimized, providing employers with confidence in the testing outcomes. The robust process of collecting and analyzing hair samples deters any potential for deceit, thereby safeguarding the accuracy of the tests.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Accredited Drug Testing offers conveniently located testing centers nationwide, including Union, NY. This widespread network ensures that individuals and employers have easy access to reliable testing services, facilitating a hassle-free experience for all prospective clients.

The availability of numerous testing sites across the country means that individuals in Union, NY and beyond can access testing without delays. This accessibility allows for efficient and streamlined testing processes that accommodate the busy schedules of employers and individuals alike.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Union, NY, ordering and undergoing hair follicle drug testing is straightforward and confidential. The process is designed with user ease in mind, addressing privacy concerns while simplifying the steps from ordering to receiving test outcomes. This considerate approach reassures individuals of their privacy and confidentiality.

Accredited Drug Testing ensures that all steps, from ordering to result delivery, are carried out discreetly. This dedication to simplicity and confidentiality encourages individuals and employers alike to trust in the process for accurate and private substance use evaluations.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

At Accredited Drug Testing, Union, NY clients can benefit from affordable pricing structures coupled with fast turnaround times. These factors are essential in delivering significant value, allowing businesses of all sizes to secure reliable drug testing without undercutting quality or speed.

The competitive pricing models ensure that companies remain within budget, making high-quality hair follicle testing accessible to a wider range of clients. The rapid delivery of results further enhances the appeal, ensuring that businesses receive the information they need promptly and efficiently.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle testing in Union, NY provides swift and precise results, establishing a superior alternative to urine testing. The cutting-edge technology employed in hair analysis offers an exceptional degree of accuracy in detecting various substances. This high level of precision not only ensures reliable outcomes but also bolsters confidence in the integrity of the testing process.

For employers and organizations seeking dependable substance detection methods, hair follicle testing is a prime choice. The speed at which results are delivered is impressive, making decisions related to hiring or compliance fast and efficient. This advantage facilitates seamless operations and maintains the momentum of workplace productivity.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Union, NY can achieve compliance and maintain peace of mind through hair follicle testing. This method supports adherence to drug-free policies and minimizes legal risks associated with non-compliance. Ensuring a safe and substance-free workplace becomes more attainable with the adoption of hair testing.

Utilizing this approach fosters an environment where workplace safety is prioritized, enhancing employee productivity and satisfaction. By relying on hair follicle tests, employers can demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a responsible and healthy work atmosphere.

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What's New In Hair Follicle Drug Testing according to the Hair Drug Testing Experts

With its multidisciplinary nature, hair testing brings together researchers, scientists, and experts from various domains to develop innovative techniques, explore new methodologies, and address emerging concerns, responding to the ever-evolving challenges of drug abuse, therapeutic drug monitoring, and environmental exposures to pollutants.

The joint meeting of the Society of Hair Testing (SoHT) and the Italian Group of Forensic Toxicologists (GTFI) was organized in Verona, June 8–10, 2022, and hosted by the Legal Medicine team of the Verona University Hospital, directed by Franco Tagliaro together with Federica Bortolotti and Rossella Gottardo.

It served as a prominent platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, facilitating groundbreaking advancements in hair testing and analysis. In this special issue of Drug Testing and Analysis, we aim to showcase the remarkable manuscripts presented at this significant event, shedding light on the latest research and highlighting the future directions in this field.

Novel Analytical Techniques: The Verona meeting witnessed the unveiling of cutting-edge analytical techniques, offering enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and accuracy for drug testing. Remarkable advancements in sample preparation, detection, and identification of drug compounds have been presented. The manuscripts in this section presented novel approaches, such as multianalyte methods and on-line preparation which can enable rapid analysis and improve thorough forensic investigations.

Biomarkers and Pharmacokinetics: The identification and validation of reliable biomarkers and pharmacokinetic studies are fundamental aspects of drug testing and analysis. The impact of hair treatments on the oxidation/decomposition of drugs in hair was also explored, as the long-term fate of drugs incorporated in the keratin matrix. Furthermore, the SoHT meeting in Verona featured research on the identification and quantification of alcohol abuse biomarkers, their stability, and their correlation with exposure and other biomarkers.

Forensic Applications and Interpretation: One of the vital objectives of hair testing is its application in forensic investigations and legal proceedings. The SoHT meeting in Verona emphasized the significance of rigorous interpretation of analytical results and the need for standardized protocols. Manuscripts in this section present advancements in forensic toxicology, and have explored the challenges posed by emerging designer drugs and strategies to combat their proliferation. The pitfalls encountered when the exogenous/endogenous nature of a substance is questioned were presented and discussed. The special issue presents also manuscripts that delve into the ethical implications of drug testing in drug facilitated sexual assaults.

Clinical Applications of hair testing are witnessed by the insight on environmental tobacco smoke exposure, assessed by hair analysis in a population of students and the study of in utero-exposure to drugs of abuse through neonatal hair analysis. Exposure to drugs was also important in cases of child abuse/neglect, when the clinical purpose of hair testing merge with its forensic applications.

The legal framework surrounding hair testing and the achievement of guidelines to ensure fairness, accuracy, and confidentiality in drug testing practices have also been discussed,and the SoHT consensus on general hair testing and testing for drugs of abuse was presented at the meeting and published as a Letter to the Editor.

In conclusion, the special issue of Drug Testing and Analysis, featuring manuscripts from the SoHT–GTFI meeting in Verona 2022, reflects the remarkable advancements achieved in this field. The manuscripts provide valuable insights into novel analytical techniques, biomarkers, pharmacokinetics, forensic applications, and ethical considerations. As we embrace these advancements, we pave the way for a safer, healthier society, where drug testing and analysis serve as powerful tools in protecting public health and maintaining integrity in various sectors. The research presented in this special issue will undoubtedly shape the future of drug testing and analysis, fostering collaboration and inspiring further innovation in this crucial area of scientific inquiry.

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