Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessments are recognized as a robust means for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures a lasting record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands' fibers. When procured from near the scalp, hair can offer an estimated detection span of up to three months for alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to ship.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (about the dimensions of a #2 pencil) from the nearest point to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for screening and confirmation tests. For tests involving EtG, add-ons, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. It is suggested to use a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable volume of body hair can be collected. Head hair pertains strictly to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result comprises four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the first step of integrating a sample into a lab's protocol. This step includes ensuring that the sample is sealed and transported correctly, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any extra data entry omitted by an electronic chain of custody system.
During Screening, an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse takes place. Although Screening is an economical method for dismissing drug usage in most cases, any positive result from Screening requires confirmation to make it valid in court. Samples with a presumptive positive result in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
If there is a presumptive positive result during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. In the Extraction stage, drug compounds are extracted at a lower concentration from hair than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the more challenging methods to perform.
Any positive result from Screening undergoes Confirmation using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed prior to Confirmation as needed. The entire lab workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Phippsburg, ME, hair follicle testing offers distinct advantages over traditional urine tests. Its superior detection accuracy allows for a comprehensive analysis of drug usage over time, providing more reliable results.
Hair tests surpass urine tests by effectively identifying drug use over an extended period. While urine tests are limited to shorter detection windows, hair testing gives employers a full three-month overview, granting confidence in the outcomes.
Employers in Phippsburg, ME benefit from hair follicle testing for its extensive detection window. Spanning up to 90 days, this approach provides an in-depth look at an individual's substance history.
Using hair follicle testing, employers gain a broader view of an applicant's past drug use. This extended time frame is valuable for making informed hiring decisions that align with company standards and expectations.
In Phippsburg, ME, the hair follicle testing method is known for its resistance to tampering. This robust testing process minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring trustworthy results.
By significantly reducing the chance of manipulation, hair follicle tests offer peace of mind to employers and legal entities, ensuring that the results remain accurate and credible.
In Phippsburg, ME, the convenience of our extensive testing centers can't be understated. Nationwide accessibility ensures quick and hassle-free access to necessary testing services.
Local and national locations provide exceptional convenience for individuals in need of hair follicle drug tests. This broad reach eliminates travel concerns, making it simple to schedule and complete tests promptly.
In Phippsburg, ME, our testing process is straightforward and confidential. Order and take the test with ease, experiencing a streamlined procedure that prioritizes privacy.
The simple, confidential approach to hair follicle testing eases concerns over data security. With results delivered promptly, clients can rest assured of their privacy and the process's user-friendly nature.
Affordable pricing combined with fast turnaround times makes hair follicle testing in Phippsburg, ME an ideal choice. Competitive rates offer excellent value for businesses of all sizes.
Quick result delivery is paired with our cost-effective pricing. This combination provides peace of mind and ensures that businesses receive timely information without excessive expenditure.
Hair follicle drug tests in Phippsburg, ME are renowned for their precision and speed. With high accuracy, these tests ensure that any substance use is detected promptly and efficiently.
The precision of hair follicle testing is coupled with quick processing times. Fast results mean decisions can be made swiftly based on reliable data, ensuring an efficient testing process for all parties involved.
Employers in Phippsburg, ME find great value in hair follicle testing for maintaining workplace compliance. Ensuring adherence to drug-free policies plays a crucial role in preserving a safe work environment.
Utilizing hair follicle tests, companies reduce their legal risks. This proactive approach not only upholds safety standards but also boosts peace of mind, making the workplace secure and compliant.