Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands. When gathered near the scalp, hair offers a detection span of up to around three months for alcohol and drugs. Collection is straightforward, tampering is complex, and shipping is convenient.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of about 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's suggested to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing. If scalp hair is not available, a similar amount of body hair can be used. By head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair covers any other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing for a drug test result consists of four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning initiates the processing of a sample within a lab's system. It involves validating that the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data input absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial rapid check for prohibited substances. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug usage in most instances, a positive result must be verified to be court-acceptable. Samples showing presumptive positives in Screening require a second confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. Drugs are removed from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug screening is exceptionally challenging to execute.
Confirmation of positive results is accomplished via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating presumptive positives are cleaned before confirmation as needed. The end-to-end laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the term "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Surpasses Urine Testing in Monkton, VT
The advantages of hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests are numerous. Hair testing boasts a significantly longer detection period, offering a broader view of substance use. Unlike urine tests, which highlight recent use, hair analysis provides insight into lifestyle choices over the previous 90 days, greatly improving the reliability and thoroughness of the results.
Extended Detection Window in Monkton, VT
One notable feature of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug usage up to 90 days prior, it provides a holistic view of an individual’s substance use. This advantage is invaluable for employers seeking comprehensive insights into potential or current employees’ histories, supporting well-informed hiring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing in Monkton, VT
Hair follicle tests offer a robust method against sample tampering. Due to the observed sample collection and unique test processing, these evaluations ensure accurate and indisputable outcomes. This makes hair testing particularly attractive for employers wanting to guarantee the reliability and authenticity of their drug testing processes.
Convenient Testing Locations in Monkton, VT
Accredited Drug Testing offers nationwide access to our centers, including localities around Monkton. This extensive network allows for seamless and efficient participation in testing services, minimizing hassle and providing convenient options for everyone, regardless of their location.
Simple and Confidential Process in Monkton, VT
Our drug testing method in Monkton is both straightforward and confidential. Accredited Drug Testing prioritizes privacy, ensuring a simplistic process from ordering and testing to result delivery. The approach is designed to guarantee ease of use while safeguarding individual privacy throughout the process.
Affordable Pricing and Quick Turnaround in Monkton, VT
We pride ourselves on competitive pricing for our hair follicle testing services. In addition to affordability, our services promise a fast turnaround of results, providing companies of various scales excellent value without compromising on quality or accuracy.
Fast and Precise Detection in Monkton, VT
Hair follicle drug tests in Monkton are renowned for their accuracy and swiftness. By capturing a longer period of substance use, they provide employers with a detailed overview of an individual’s history. These tests are particularly efficient at delivering reliable results swiftly, facilitating rapid decision-making for both potential employees and employers.
Compliance and Peace of Mind in Monkton, VT
For employers, the adoption of hair follicle testing aligns with compliance demands and enhances workplace safety. This form of testing helps mitigate legal risks and support drug-free workplace policies. With accurate results and an extensive detection period, it boosts confidence in maintaining a safe and responsible workplace environment.
