In Eckhart Mines, Maryland, Accredited Drug Testing offers comprehensive hair follicle drug testing services. Whether a hair test for substances or alcohol is needed, Accredited Drug Testing specializes in this type of testing, available through our centers across all U.S. cities. Usually, 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the head or body can be used. Hair testing can detect drugs, alcohol/ETG, and offers other customizable options.
There has been an increase in hair follicle drug tests as a method of screening recently. Employers, courts, and professionals in Substance Abuse are favoring hair drug tests over traditional urine tests. Employers with strict no-drug policies, the court system, and probation officers are turning to hair follicle testing. The main advantage is that it provides an extended detection window of up to 90 days, is observed during sample collection, and is significantly more difficult to manipulate. However, for detection within the past five days, urine testing remains the most effective method.
* 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 has become recognized as an effective method for detecting substance use. Hair traps biomarkers in its fibers, providing a long-term record of alcohol and other drugs. When sampled close to the head, hair can offer approximately a 3-month detection period for these substances. Collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and shipping is uncomplicated.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 strands (similar to a #2 pencil) taken nearest the scalp, yields 100mg, the ideal amount for testing. For additional tests such as EtG, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample is advised. If head hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four main steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first processing step where the sample is entered into the lab's system. This process verifies the sample's seal and proper shipment, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any required data entry that a digital chain of custody system does not include.
Screening provides a preliminary evaluation for substances. Though cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, only confirmed positive screens are acceptable in legal contexts. Samples with positive initial screens need further confirmation.
If a sample shows a positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the sample for the Extraction phase. Here, substances are drawn from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in urine or saliva, highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive Screening is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that appear positive initially are washed as required before confirmation. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand, not the scalp's follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Eckhart Mines, MD
Hair testing stands out over urine tests due to its superior accuracy in detecting long-term drug use. This method prevents cheating and produces reliable results that employers trust more than traditional urine samples.
Extended Detection Window in Eckhart Mines, MD
Hair follicle testing offers a significant advantage with its ability to detect drug use up to 90 days prior, providing employers with a detailed account of an individual's past substance use.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Eckhart Mines, MD
Hair follicle tests markedly lower the risk of sample tampering, offering results that are difficult to question and ensuring that the integrity of the testing process remains intact.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Eckhart Mines, MD
With a network of nationwide testing centers, individuals can access testing services efficiently and conveniently, ensuring a straightforward process for all involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Eckhart Mines, MD
The process for engaging in hair follicle testing is straightforward and private, promising confidentiality and ease from ordering to results delivery, thus safeguarding personal privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Eckhart Mines, MD
Offering competitive pricing and quick result times, this provides a great value for businesses seeking efficient and economical drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Eckhart Mines, MD
Hair follicle drug tests yield rapid and precise results, ensuring accuracy in detecting substance use. This has positioned them as a reliable solution for timely drug testing needs.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Eckhart Mines, MD
Employers benefit from hair follicle testing by maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies, thus diminishing legal risks and boosting workplace safety and security.
