What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a long-lasting record of alcohol and drug intake by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair shaft. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer up to a roughly 3-month detection window for drugs and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment comprising about 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the perfect sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additions, and/or testing beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest weighing the sample on a jeweler's scale. In cases where scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair may be used. When we mention head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The principal steps in the laboratory processing of a drug testing result comprise Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning includes the preliminary processing of a sample into a lab’s system. This process ensures that the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data entry not available via an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. While it is an economical method to rule out drug consumption in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to be accepted in court. Any samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening require a follow-up confirmation.

If a sample is presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial specimen and set up for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are pulled from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), hence hair drug screening is known as the most challenging technique to execute.

Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as needed. The full laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Long detection window: Hair drug tests can identify drug consumption for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which feature a shorter detection period.
Difficulty to cheat: Hair drug tests are extremely hard to cheat, ensuring more precise results.
Provides historical data: They offer a record of drug use behavior over a duration of time, not just immediate use.

Limitations:

Cannot detect recent use: It requires around 5-7 days for drugs to become detectable in hair.
Cost: Hair drug tests are typically costlier than other drug testing techniques.
Variations in results: Elements like hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence the drug metabolite concentration in the hair.

Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis involves the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Advantage of Hair Testing Over Urine in Swanton, VT

Hair follicle testing offers unparalleled accuracy compared to urine tests.
With longer detection periods, it outperforms the conventional urine tests.
This method not only confirms substance use more reliably, but also diminishes false negatives.
The increased accuracy benefits employers significantly in Swanton, VT.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Window for Detection

Hair follicle tests reveal drug use up to three months, offering a comprehensive history.
Employers can gain a broader view of an employee or applicant's substance habits.
This extensive detection is particularly beneficial for ensuring a safe workplace.
In Swanton, VT, businesses gain confidence with this thorough drug use insight.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Reduce Tampering Risks

Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the chance of sample manipulation.
This method ensures the results are trusted and reliable.
It's nearly impossible to alter results compared to urine tests.
Swanton, VT employers can count on these unwavering results for integrity.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Nationwide and Local Testing Convenience

The extensive network of testing sites simplifies the entire testing process.
Fast, hassle-free access is available to Swanton, VT residents.
This accessibility allows for seamless service with minimal travel.
A convenient setup ensures tests are conducted promptly and efficiently.

Simple, Confidential Process

Confidential and Streamlined Process

The entire procedure is straightforward, offering ease of use.
Privacy is respected throughout the testing process in Swanton, VT.
From ordering to results, confidentiality is paramount.
The simplified process assures users of the discretion and efficiency.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Competitive Pricing and Fast Processing

Pricing structures are budget-friendly for businesses of all sizes.
The fast turnaround of hair test results offers great value.
This affordability doesn't compromise the quality or speed in Swanton, VT.
Businesses benefit from the cost-effectiveness and reliability of services.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Speed and Accuracy in Results

The hair follicle drug test efficiently delivers reliable and accurate results.
Its precision ensures substance consumption detection is both swift and dependable.
Specifically designed for quick processing, it addresses the need for fast outcomes in Swanton, VT.
This method delineates itself from traditional tests by providing supreme precision without delay.