Employment, Probation, Personal
Accredited Drug Testing provides thorough hair follicle drug analysis in Thetford, Vermont. For those needing a hair-based drug or alcohol examination, Accredited Drug Testing excels in this area, with facilities available in every city across the nation to handle such tests. Generally, about 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the head or body can be used. Hair analyses can detect drugs, alcohol/ETG, or be customized further.
Recently, more drug testing methods have involved hair follicle examinations. This type of test is increasingly favored by workplaces, judicial systems, and substance abuse experts over traditional urine tests. Employers with strict no-drug policies, the courts, and probationers employ hair follicle tests. These tests offer the advantage of detecting drug use over a longer timeframe of up to 90 days, using supervised collection, making them hard to tamper with. However, for detecting recent drug use within five days, urine tests remain more precise.
The analysis of hair has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged timeline of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When collected near the scalp, it can offer a detection span of up to roughly 3 months for substances like alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and easily transportable.
A segment measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil thickness) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and validation. For assessments such as EtG enhancements and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is recommended. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a similar amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically denote scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair categories (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The key stages in the lab handling of drug testing outcomes include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial handling within a lab system. This step confirms the secure sealing and proper shipment of the sample, assigns a distinct LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data requirements absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial rapid assessment for the presence of drugs. Although it is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a positive result requires further confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples showing preliminary positive results during Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
In cases of a presumptive positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at a significantly lower concentration than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive Screening findings is performed using techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. As needed, pre-confirmation washing of all presumptive positive samples is conducted. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the common term "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself, not on the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Prevails in Thetford, VT
Hair follicle testing offers distinct benefits over traditional urine tests, especially in terms of accuracy and reliability. Hair tests can detect a wider range of substances for up to 90 days, providing a comprehensive view of drug use history. This enhanced detection window surpasses the shorter timeframe of urine tests, offering a more precise assessment for employers and legal systems.
Extended Drug Detection in Thetford, VT
The capability of hair follicle testing to detect drug usage over a prolonged period, often up to 90 days, sets it apart from other methods. This extensive detection window is crucial for employers who need to evaluate an individual's longer-term substance habits. It surpasses the duration detectable by typical urine tests, offering a more comprehensive understanding of a person's history.
Secure and Tamper-Resistant Testing in Thetford, VT
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their resistance to tampering, significantly reducing the chance of sample adulteration compared to urine tests. This method provides undeniable and trustworthy results, ensuring that the integrity of the testing process is upheld. The security of hair testing reinforces the reliability of outcomes and maintains confidence in the results.
Convenient Testing Locations Across Thetford, VT
Our network of testing centers spans nationwide, providing ease of access to hair follicle testing services. Whether in Thetford, VT or elsewhere, these centers guarantee a swift and hassle-free testing experience, ensuring you swiftly accomplish your drug testing requirements with minimal inconvenience and maximal efficiency.
Simplified, Private Testing in Thetford, VT
The process of ordering, undergoing, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential. Our services prioritize privacy and ease of use, addressing any concerns you may have. Rest assured knowing that our approach protects your personal information while offering an uncomplicated testing experience.
Cost-Effective and Rapid Results in Thetford, VT
Our hair follicle testing services feature competitive pricing and quick turnaround times. This affordable approach provides excellent value, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Quick results ensure employers can swiftly act on the information, reinforcing the value of our reliable testing services in producing timely, accurate results.
Fast and Precise Detection in Thetford, VT
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their remarkable precision and rapid results. By evaluating hair samples, these tests efficiently identify substances, providing a dependable snapshot of any drug use. The swift process ensures that you receive accurate information promptly, assisting in crucial decision-making and offering a clear view of substance use over time.
Ensuring Compliance in Thetford, VT
Hair follicle testing helps employers comply with drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks. Implementing these tests enhances safety by ensuring a non-tolerant environment towards substance abuse. Businesses reduce liability and promote a safer workplace, fostering peace of mind and maintaining integrity within the organization.
