Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessments are recognized as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair offers approximately a 3-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, moderately challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal sample for evaluation and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests with more than 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair may be gathered. When discussing head hair, scalp hair is the focus. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab analysis of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary processing of a sample within a lab’s system. This step involves ensuring the sample was properly sealed and conveyed, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial quick evaluation for substance abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to rule out drug consumption in the majority of samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for it to be legally acceptable. Samples presumed positive during Screening require secondary confirmation.
Should a sample be presumed positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, substances are extracted from hair at a significantly reduced concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which accounts for the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive undergo washing prior to confirmation as necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Westfield, VT
Hair follicle testing excels over traditional urine tests with its superior detection accuracy. Unlike urine tests, hair analysis covers a longer history of drug use, providing a more comprehensive picture. Employers favor this method for its reliability, ensuring a more steadfast commitment to maintaining a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Westfield, VT
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window, seizing drug use traces for up to 90 days. This extensive timeframe enables employers to assess an individual's drug history comprehensively—beyond the limitations posed by shorter-span tests and helps in employing reliable and responsible personnel.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Westfield, VT
Hair follicle tests are designed to substantially mitigate the risk of sample adulteration. The tamper-resistant nature assures stakeholders of credible outcomes, creating trust in the testing process. These tests are nearly impossible to cheat, securing an honest assessment of substance use history without concerns of manipulation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Westfield, VT
Our expansive network of nationwide testing centers ensures that hair drug screening is convenient and stress-free. Local accessibility eliminates hassles related to testing access, supporting efficient compliance with drug policies effortlessly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Westfield, VT
The procedure for requesting, completing, and obtaining results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and secure. Attention to privacy and simplicity in logistics ensures that individuals experience minimal discomfort, maintaining dignity throughout the testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Westfield, VT
We offer competitive pricing structures alongside fast turnaround times, providing excellent value for businesses. This approach ensures access to dependable drug testing without breaking the bank, respecting budget constraints while extending comprehensive testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Westfield, VT
Hair follicle tests provide fast and reliable results, maintaining high accuracy in pinpointing drug and alcohol consumption. This level of precision gives stakeholders confidence in results, facilitating swift decision-making processes in workplaces and legal settings. Ensuring accuracy is prioritized, distinguishing hair analysis from more error-prone methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Westfield, VT
Adopting hair follicle testing allows employers to adhere seamlessly to drug-free workplace policies, diminishing legal risks. The assurance of meticulous compliance promotes a safer work environment, reflecting positively on leadership and fostering a culture of safety and responsibility.
