Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Calverton, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is widely recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a repository for long-term substance history by embedding biomarkers within its strands as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to around three months for both alcohol and other drugs. It is easy to gather, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.

A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is recommended to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent body hair amount can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The lab processing of a drug test result encompasses four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning encompasses initial sample processing within a lab's system. This phase confirms proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addresses any extra data entry absent from electronic chain of custody procedures.

Screening serves as a preliminary check for substances. While it's a cost-efficient method to discount drug use in the majority of samples, confirmed positive results are necessary for legal validity. Presumptively positive samples during Screening necessitate further confirmation.

For samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening, more hair is sourced from the original sample and readied for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at notably lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening a particularly challenging methodology.

Confirmation for any preliminary positive results is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Prior to confirmation, presumptive positive samples are cleansed when required. The entire pathway from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair tests can recognize drug use up to 90 days, surpassing the shorter window of urine tests.
• Hard to falsify: Hair tests are notably difficult to cheat, enhancing result reliability.
• Reveals usage patterns: Provides a usage timeline over a longer span, not just immediate consumption.

Limitations:

• Unable to trace recent use: A period of approximately 5-7 days is needed before drugs can be identified in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs compared to alternative testing methods.
• Result disparities: Hair color and personal growth variations can impact drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Often misidentified as "hair follicle tests", the procedure evaluates the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Calverton, MD

In Calverton, MD, hair follicle testing offers unbeatable detection accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine testing. Hair tests can detect substance use for up to 90 days, providing a more comprehensive insight into an individual's history of drug use. Unlike urine tests, which can only detect recent use, hair tests ensure long-term accountability.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Calverton, MD

In Calverton, MD, hair follicle tests stand out for their extended detection window, capturing drug use over up to 90 days. This feature offers employers a detailed overview of a candidate's or an employee's drug history, surpassing the capabilities of traditional urine tests by providing long-term integrity and a fuller picture of substance use patterns.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Calverton, MD

Hair follicle testing in Calverton, MD, is a strong choice due to its ability to greatly minimize sample tampering. The test's design makes it nearly impossible to adulterate, thereby providing consistent and dependable results. This tamper-resistant feature is essential for maintaining the integrity of the testing process and outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Calverton, MD

Our nationwide network of testing centers, including locations in Calverton, MD, ensures that accessing drug testing services is quick and convenient. This widespread availability means minimal hassle and travel for both individuals and businesses seeking testing solutions, making compliance with testing requirements straightforward and accessible.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Calverton, MD

In Calverton, MD, our hair follicle testing process is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering to collection and receiving results, users are assured of privacy and ease. This user-friendly approach addresses concerns about discretion and confidentiality while ensuring the testing process remains straightforward.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Calverton, MD

Our competitive pricing structure for hair follicle testing in Calverton, MD, offers excellent value, with rapid turnaround times that meet the needs of small and large businesses alike. By providing these benefits, companies can enjoy cost-effective testing solutions that uphold high standards of speed and accuracy.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Calverton, MD

Hair follicle drug tests in Calverton, MD, are favored for their speed and precision. They provide a high level of accuracy in identifying substance use, ensuring that individuals and employers receive trustworthy results in a timely manner. This efficiency in reporting makes hair testing ideal for both corporate and personal needs when accuracy is critical.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Calverton, MD

Hair follicle testing in Calverton, MD, ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal liabilities and promoting a safer work environment. By choosing hair tests, employers are assured of adherence to regulations and gain peace of mind knowing their policies are effectively supported by reliable testing methods.

Drug Testing Near Calverton, MD

Fairview, MD

West Laurel, MD

Cloverly, MD

Burtonsville, MD

Colesville, MD

White Oak, MD

Hillandale, MD

Beltsville, MD

Konterra, MD

Fairland, MD