Accredited Drug Testing provides comprehensive hair follicle drug testing in Dundalk, Maryland. If a hair drug or alcohol test is required, Accredited Drug Testing specializes in hair testing, with centers across all cities nationwide to conduct these tests. Typically, 1.5 to 2 inches of hair on the head or body is needed. Hair tests can detect drugs, alcohol/ETG, or be tailored for specific custom hair testing needs.
Recently, hair follicle drug tests have become increasingly common for drug testing. Employers, courts, and substance abuse professionals often opt for this method instead of traditional urine tests. Hair tests support zero-tolerance policies, probation monitoring, and legal requirements. They offer a longer detection window up to 90 days, are collected under supervision, and are very difficult to falsify. However, urine tests remain the best for detecting recent drug use within 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 analysis stands as a robust method for unveiling drug and alcohol consumption. Hair archives a timeline of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the hair shaft's structure. A segment obtained from near the scalp can offer a detection timeline extending up to three months for various substances. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipment.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) cut near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, an optimal amount for both initial testing and confirmation. When conducting an EtG test, adding panels, or if testing exceeds 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. The specimen should ideally be weighed using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is not available, body hair in an equivalent amount can be collected. When mentioning head hair, it specifically denotes scalp hair. Body hair includes other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Overview of the Process
The lab processing of drug test outcomes involves four pivotal stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning transforms a sample into the laboratory's records. This step verifies the integrity and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and ensures completion of any outstanding data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening conducts a primary evaluation for drugs. Though cost-effective for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive result in Screening must be substantiated for courtroom acceptability. Presumptive positives in Screening necessitate further confirmatory testing.
Samples presumed positive in Screening proceed to Extraction, involving more hair from the initial sample. Here, drugs are isolated at significantly lower levels compared to other methods (ex. urine or oral fluids), highlighting the difficulty of hair drug analysis.
To verify any positive screening outcomes, Confirmation is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples deemed presumptive positive undergo washing before confirmation as required. The comprehensive laboratory stages, from Accessioning to Confirmation, are subject to review under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug analysis:
Drawbacks:
Note: The widely used term "hair follicle tests" is somewhat of a misnomer; the analysis pertains to the hair strand itself, not the scalp-embedded follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
In Dundalk, MD, hair follicle testing is proving superior with its extended detection capabilities compared to traditional urine tests. This method ensures enhanced accuracy and reliability, making it preferred for comprehensive substance use evaluation, surpassing the limitations of standard urine testing methods.
Extended Detection Window for Better Insight
The ability to detect drug use up to 90 days offers employers in Dundalk, MD an extensive overview of an individual's drug use history. This extended window provides a broader timeline of substance use, facilitating informed decision-making for both employers and legal entities.
Unmatched Tamper-Resistant Method
Hair follicle tests are highly favored in Dundalk, MD for their resistance to adulteration. By minimizing opportunities for tampering, this method ensures that results remain trustworthy and reduces the risk of manipulation, thereby guaranteeing the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Testing Locations Nationwide
With numerous centers nationwide, including in Dundalk, MD, accessing drug testing services is hassle-free. The widespread availability of our facilities allows for quick and convenient access, supporting a seamless process for both employers and individuals seeking testing services.
Simple and Confidential Process
In Dundalk, MD, our hair follicle testing process is designed for simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to testing to receiving results, the entire process respects privacy, addressing individuals' concerns and making drug testing accessible and user-friendly.
Affordable Pricing and Quick Turnaround
We offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround times in Dundalk, MD, ensuring excellent value for our clients. Our efficient processes provide rapid results, allowing companies of all sizes to maintain a balance of cost-effectiveness and peace of mind.
Fast and Accurate Testing in Dundalk, MD
Hair follicle drug testing is renowned for its precision, swiftly delivering reliable results. With high accuracy rates, these tests efficiently detect substance use, providing an unparalleled level of certainty essential for employers and institutions dedicated to maintaining safety and compliance.
Ensuring Compliance and Peace of Mind
For Dundalk, MD employers, adopting hair follicle testing is key to meeting drug-free workplace policies. This reliable method minimizes legal risks, enhancing workplace safety and ensuring that organizational policies are upheld, providing employers with peace of mind.
