Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Analysis of hair has emerged as a compelling method for identifying substance use. Hair strands record an extended history of drug and alcohol consumption through encapsulating biomarkers within the strands of hair that are developing. When hair is extracted adjacent to the scalp, it offers up to a roughly three-month timeframe for detecting drugs and alcohol. The collection of hair is uncomplicated, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
An ideal hair specimen for both screening and validation is a 1.5-inch section consisting of approximately 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil), sourced nearest the scalp, yielding 100mg of hair. For enhanced tests like EtG or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. Measuring the specimen using a jeweler's scale is suggested. If scalp hair is unavailable, a similar quantity of body hair may be gathered. When we mention head hair, we strictly indicate scalp hair. Body hair encompasses other varieties (facial, axillary, and more).
Process Highlights
The key stages involved in processing a drug test in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the preliminary handling of a specimen to incorporate it into the lab's system. This step confirms the sample's correct sealing and shipment, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes outstanding data entry not included by an electronic custody chain system.
Screening serves as an initial cursory review for substance presence. Screening is a cost-effective technique to eliminate substance use from most samples, but a positive screen requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that are potentially positive in Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample be possibly positive in the Screening phase, additional hair from the primary sample is readied for Extraction. During Extraction, substances are derived from hair at significantly lower levels than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), making hair drug testing a particularly complex methodology.
Verification of positive screening outcomes occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with potential positive outcomes are cleaned pre-confirmation, as needed. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO/IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Benefits of hair drug analysis:
Constraints:
Note: Though frequently termed as "hair follicle tests," the examination evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle within the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bennington, VT
Hair follicle testing offers several advantages over traditional urine tests, especially in terms of detection accuracy. While urine tests are limited in their detection window, hair tests can track drug use for a much longer period. This extended window ensures employers get a more comprehensive view of substance use, providing more reliable results and aiding better policy enforcement.
Extended Detection Window in Bennington, VT
Hair follicle tests stand out for their capability to unveil drug use history over an extended period of up to 90 days. This makes them an invaluable tool for employers who wish to understand an applicant's or employee's longer-term substance use habits. Drug detection over such a span is crucial for making informed hiring and retention decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bennington, VT
The hair follicle test's intrinsic design significantly reduces the risk of sample tampering or adulteration. Its collection method is observed, ensuring the integrity and trustworthiness of the sample. As a result, organizations benefit from truly dependable and conclusive results, minimizing doubts about sample validity.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bennington, VT
We offer a network of nationwide testing centers that makes accessing drug testing services straightforward and convenient. Local centers ensure quick and hassle-free testing, supporting busy individuals and companies. This widespread accessibility ensures our clients benefit from reliable and timely testing regardless of their location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bennington, VT
Our drug testing procedure is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering tests to obtaining results, the steps are user-friendly, maintaining privacy throughout. This ease of use ensures clients can focus on receiving accurate results without concerns over confidentiality breaches or complicated processes.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bennington, VT
Our competitive pricing and quick result turnaround times make our services an excellent value for companies, large or small. We balance affordability with high-quality testing, ensuring organizations can efficiently monitor workplace substance use without straining their resources, providing peace of mind and effective substance management.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bennington, VT
Hair follicle drug tests deliver quick and precise results, making them an ideal choice for timely detection of substance use. Their impressive accuracy provides users with confidence that the testing process leads to reliable outcomes. The speed at which results are available ensures minimal waiting, allowing rapid decision-making and effective substance management.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bennington, VT
Hair follicle testing helps employers adhere to their drug-free workplace policies. By facilitating compliance, it reduces potential legal challenges and enhances workplace safety. Such assurance allows employers to concentrate on creating a productive work environment, free from the risks associated with substance abuse.
