Accredited Drug Testing provides comprehensive hair follicle drug analysis in Washington, DC. Those needing a hair drug or alcohol screening can rely on our specialization in hair testing, available at testing facilities across all cities nationwide. Typically, 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the scalp or other body parts is required for testing. Hair samples can be examined for drugs, alcohol/ETG, or customized testing options.
Recently, hair follicle assessments have become more prevalent in drug testing than conventional urine analyses. Numerous employers, judicial systems, and substance abuse professionals now prefer hair drug evaluations over urine tests. These tests are favored by employers with strict drug-free policies, courts, and individuals under probation, primarily due to their extended detection period of up to 90 days and nearly tamper-proof collection process. Nonetheless, urine tests remain the gold standard for identifying drug use within the past five days.
* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center. You must bring a valid government issued ID along with the registration/barcode number which was sent to you by email.
When you're searching for hair drug testing near me or hair drug testing locations, we provide a simple and convenient process to find a drug and alcohol testing location near you that is certified to provide all of your drug and alcohol testing needs.
Hair assessment is now recognized as a potent method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of growing hair strands. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection span of up to about 90 days for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A segment measuring 1.5 inches of around 200 hair strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for both initial and confirmatory analysis. For EtG, additional tests, and tests extending beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is suggested to measure the sample on a jeweler's scale. If there is no scalp hair available, a comparable amount of body hair can be utilized. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other hair categories (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in processing a drug test in a lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial stage of integrating a sample into the laboratory’s system. This stage ensures the sample is sealed and dispatched correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data management not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening represents a preliminary swift assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient means to exclude substance use in the majority of cases, a positive screen necessitates further verification to be legally accepted. All samples yielding presumptively positive results during Screening demand subsequent confirmation.
If an initial specimen shows presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. In this step, substances are withdrawn from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug testing is one of the most complex methodologies.
Confirmation of any positive outcome from screening is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are cleansed before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab operation from Accessioning to Confirmation is inspected under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently dubbed "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair strand rather than the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Washington, DC
Hair follicle testing stands out for superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. It provides a longer detection window, typically up to 90 days, unlike urine tests that detect more recent drug use. Employers and authorities in Washington, DC, leverage hair tests for reliable and comprehensive insights into a person's substance history.
Enhanced Accuracy and Reliability
While urine tests can sometimes be affected by recent consumption patterns, hair testing captures drug use over months, providing a clearer picture. The observed collection process of hair sampling adds a layer of reliability, making it a favored method in diverse sectors throughout the region.
Extended Detection Window in Washington, DC
Hair follicle testing in Washington, DC, offers a long-term overview of drug use with its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This duration significantly surpasses that of urine tests, allowing employers to garner a comprehensive view of an individual's substance usage history, which is crucial for informed decision-making in employment and other areas.
Comprehensive Substance History
Employers benefit from hair testing's ability to reveal patterns in an individual's substance use over an extended period. This gives companies confidence in their hiring decisions or ongoing employee assessments, ensuring a safe and compliant workplace environment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Washington, DC
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its tamper-resistant nature, significantly reducing the likelihood of adulterated samples. In Washington, DC, this method assures employers and authorities that the results obtained are genuine and trustworthy, making it a preferred choice for stringent drug-free policies.
Reducing Sample Tampering Risks
With hair testing, the chance of altering results is minimized, as the sample collection is observed, ensuring authenticity. This reliability is crucial for organizations and institutions seeking an unwavering drug testing method that confidently meets their standards.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Washington, DC
Our widespread network of testing centers, including in Washington, DC, offers unparalleled convenience for individuals and businesses seeking quick and hassle-free hair follicle drug testing services. This accessibility ensures a seamless testing process for all clientele.
Easy Access to Testing Services
No matter where you are in Washington, DC, our strategically placed testing centers enable easy access and flexibility in scheduling, ensuring efficient and stress-free testing experiences.
Simple, Confidential Process in Washington, DC
The hair follicle drug testing process in Washington, DC, is designed to be both straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving the results, every step prioritizes the individual's privacy and ease of access, ensuring a smooth experience throughout.
Committed to Privacy and Simplicity
Our clients can expect a user-friendly procedure that respects their confidentiality at every stage. This commitment reassures individuals and employers alike, preserving trust and integrity in the testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Washington, DC
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times for hair follicle testing in Washington, DC, provide excellent value to businesses of varying sizes. This efficiency ensures organizations can maximize their resources while obtaining reliable results swiftly.
Exceptional Value and Speed
We offer transparent and affordable pricing structures, enabling companies to comfortably incorporate our services into their operational budgets while benefiting from our rapid result delivery to maintain momentum in their endeavors.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Washington, DC
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their high accuracy and swift results. In Washington, DC, these tests offer unmatched precision, facilitating the effective identification of substance usage. Their advanced detection capabilities make them a preferred choice for employers and individuals seeking quick and dependable results.
The Speed of Hair Tests
Processing times for hair tests are rapid, ensuring that results are received promptly. This quick turnaround aids in minimizing the disruption to both employers and individuals awaiting results. The reliability of these tests further enhances their appeal as a top drug screening option in Washington, DC.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Washington, DC
Employers using hair follicle testing enjoy a sense of security, knowing their compliance with drug-free workplace policies is fortified. In Washington, DC, this testing method reduces legal uncertainties and elevates safety standards, providing peace of mind.
Enhanced Workplace Safety
Hair testing's comprehensive detection capabilities help maintain a secure environment, thereby minimizing potential liabilities and fostering a culture of safety. By ensuring adherence to drug-free policies, employers enhance their operational integrity and workforce well-being.