Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has grown in its reputation as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of substance use by preserving biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. When collected near the scalp, it offers an approximate three-month detection window for drugs and alcohol. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to send for analysis.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of about 200 hairs (roughly akin to the diameter of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp will yield 100mg, the optimal sample amount for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg specimen is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is recommended. If head hair is inaccessible, an equivalent amount of body hair is an alternative. “Head hair†pertains specifically to scalp hair, whereas “body hair†includes all other types (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The four principal stages involved in the laboratory analysis of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary processing of a sample into a laboratory’s system, ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data that isn't included in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a primary rapid check for drug misuse. Screening offers a cost-efficient method to negate drug usage in most samples, although a positive result needs confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Any samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening require further confirmation.
If a sample appears presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original specimen for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at notably lower concentrations than in other testing forms (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening is one of the more complex techniques to administer.
Confirmation of any positive screening result requires methods like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples flagged as presumptive positives are washed prior to Confirmation when necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although sometimes called "hair follicle tests," the analysis is performed on the strand of hair, not the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Boston, TN
Hair follicle testing outshines urine testing with its heightened precision and reliability in identifying drug use. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair tests offer a more robust detection window, capturing substance use history over months rather than days. This enhanced accuracy ensures both employers and legal entities a trustworthy evaluation of an individual's substance-use history.
Extended Detection Window in Boston, TN
Providing a longer detection window of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing is a valuable drug-use assessment tool. It gives employers a comprehensive picture of an individual's long-term substance use. This extended period is key for making informed decisions about current or prospective employees with regard to their substance-use history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Boston, TN
With hair follicle testing, the potential for tampering is significantly reduced. This method ensures that samples remain pure, producing uncontestable results. The difficulty in adulterating hair samples fosters trust and reliability, making it an ideal choice for scenarios where accuracy and authenticity are crucial.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Boston, TN
Experience the convenience of numerous testing centers nationwide, including in Boston, TN, making drug testing highly accessible. Easy-to-reach facilities simplify the process, ensuring hassle-free service. This broad network guarantees that testing is just a step away, offering flexibility and ease for both individuals and businesses.
Simple, Confidential Process in Boston, TN
Our hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and discreet. From arranging tests to obtaining results, every step is managed with the utmost privacy. Your data remains secure, ensuring ease of use and confidentiality, a crucial consideration for anyone engaging in substance testing.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Boston, TN
Our hair follicle testing services offer competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times, providing excellent value for businesses of all sizes. Quick and cost-effective solutions are our hallmark, enabling companies to manage their budgets efficiently while receiving reliable, fast results that support business objectives.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Boston, TN
Hair follicle drug testing stands out for delivering swift, precise, and dependable outcomes. The process swiftly determines substance use with high accuracy, making it a powerful tool for employers and individuals alike. This method efficiently pinpoints the presence of drugs, providing clarity and peace of mind in personal and professional settings.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Boston, TN
Hair follicle testing supports workplace drug-free policies, offering employers peace of mind while promoting safety. Using this method guarantees compliance with legislations, minimizes legal risks, and fosters a secure working environment. Employers can remain confident in the integrity of their drug testing processes.
