Hair drug testing in London

When to use the hair drug test

The most popular use of results for hair drug tests is for legal purposes. If you are court ordered to provide evidence of drug use (or non-use), the court order will normally request a hair drug test. This is because it is a well-established and accredited method of determining longer-term drug use.

Normally, a private individual has been requested to prove abstinence from drugs to a court. This can be a for a variety of reasons, including child custody proceedings. Also, appointed solicitors or Social Services may also act on behalf of an individual when third party consent is in place.

In addition, many organisations also request a hair drug test as part of their security vetting for high profile employment positions. For example, this is the test of choice for the Home Office when vetting new security personnel.

Also, private individuals request this test to establish a picture of drug use for either themselves or family members. This is normally before they are court directed to do so.
 

If you require a shorter-term drug detection window, consider the urine laboratory drug test.

Limitations using body hair

There are limitations for testing body hair. Growth rates differ from head hair, including what we call 'resting phases', when there is little or no hair growth. Also, we are also unable to analyse certain types of body hair. Standards for body hair testing can change, so please call 0800 988 7107 to speak to a Clinical Advisor for the latest advice and guidance.

The costs of hair drug testing in London

Hair drug testing costs depend on the number of drugs to be tested, the time-period required, and if segmented hair drug testing is required. For example, the cost for testing 1 drug for a single 3-month period is £255 incl. VAT. The same hair drug test, but reported on a month-by-month basis is £505 incl. VAT.

Prices inclusive of VAT

Hair drug testing sample collection

At the sample collection appointment, a certified collection officer will guide you through the test documentation, obtain and verify your ID, and collect your hair sample. All of which is performed under strict chain of custody policies and procedures, to ensure sample integrity and an audit trail. This is critical to being able to use the laboratory results for legal purposes.

Head hair is collected using small scissors and a scalp protector. As a result, this ensures we collect the correct length, sufficient weight, and the required orientation of the head hair sample for the analysis requested. There is an optional to also collect a 'B' sample for additional testing if required.

However, body hair is not cut in the same way as head hair and is collected in a foil using either an electric or disposable shaver.

Regardless of the hair collected, you will be asked to sign consent to have your samples collected and analysed by the laboratory for your chosen hair drug test.

Finally, your sample is secured using tamper-proof measures, and transported securely for processing.

Important hair drug testing timeframes

The hair drug test can effectively detect the metabolites of drugs for a period of up to 6 months. Also, this depends on the length of head hair you have. 1 cm of head hair is equal to one month growth which equates to 1 month test analysis. However, it is not recommended to undertake testing beyond 6 months due to the deterioration of hair. Please speak to a Clinical Advisor if more than 6 months analysis is required.

In addition, on average, it takes a drug 7 to 10 days to break down in the body and move into the hair strand. Therefore, this must be considered when using a hair drug test.
 

From the point the hair sample reaches the laboratory, results are available within 3 to 5 working days.

Drugs we can test for in the hair drug test

We can test individual drugs and have a standard panel of the most common recreational drugs. These are:

• Amphetamine and Methamphetamines which includes Ecstasy.
• Benzodiazepines
• Cannabis
• Cocaine
• Methadone
• Opiates
• Ketamine

We also test for steroids, sedatives and offer a spiking panel if required. There are many options, so please call and speak to a Clinical Advisor for more information.

Hair drug testing segmentation

Segmentation provides a month by month break down of the hair drug test analysis. As such, segmentation provides a more detailed history of an individual’s drug use. It is recommended in cases where drugs have been used within or close to a particular time frame of the analysis, and evidence is needed that drug use has recently stopped.

In addition, segmentation is also recommended in situations where an individual is not a regular user or has taken the drug on a couple of occasions. Therefore, analysing the hair in sections provides a better chance of detecting small amounts of a drug.

How to book an appointment for a hair drug test

To book a hair drug test in London, please call 0800 988 7107. You will be put through to a Clinical Account Manager who will help you find your nearest sample collection location in London. In addition, they will guide you through the booking and hair testing process and answer any technical questions you may have.