Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Baileys Crossroads, VA

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive timeline of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair can provide up to roughly a 90-day detection period for substances. The collection process is straightforward, less prone to tampering, and easy to transport.

An ideal sample for both screening and confirmation consists of a 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hairs (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) located closest to the scalp, yielding 100mg of hair. For EtG, extra parameters, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for measuring the sample. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be obtained. The term head hair is exclusively in reference to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result is comprised of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s database. This phase includes confirming the sample was properly sealed and sent, designating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any additional data recording not covered by an electronic tracking system.

Screening represents an initial rapid assessment for substances. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out drug consumption for most samples, a positive result must be verified to be valid in legal contexts. Samples showing potential positive results in Screening demand subsequent confirmation.

Should a sample test positive at the Screening stage, further hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. In this phase, the concentration of drugs extracted from hair is significantly lower compared to other samples (such as urine or saliva), making hair drug testing the most challenging methodology to execute.

Any positive screening outcomes are validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with presumptive positive results undergo a washing process before confirmation, as needed. The entire laboratory workflow from Accessioning through Confirmation is systematically evaluated in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair qualifications and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug examinations can identify drug usage over a 90-day timespan, unlike urine tests which have a shorter detection period.
• Resistance to manipulation: Cheating on a hair drug examination is extremely challenging, ensuring more reliable outcomes.
• Offers historical insight: It can reveal a timeline of drug consumption over an extended timeframe, not limited to recent use.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: It roughly takes 5-7 days before drugs become traceable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug evaluations generally incur higher costs compared to other testing methods.
• Result variability: Differences such as hair color and individual growth rates can impact the concentration of drug indicators in the hair.

Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Baileys Crossroads, VA

• Hair testing boasts a longer detection period compared to urine tests.
• It offers superior accuracy and is less prone to tampering.
• Employers benefit from clearer insights into substance use history.

While urine tests handle short-term detection, hair follicle testing charts a broader scope, thus providing a superior assessment.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Baileys Crossroads, VA

• Hair follicle tests track drug use over a 90-day span.
• This longer window offers employers a thorough history check.
• Detecting past use helps in making informed employment decisions.

The extended scope of hair testing equips businesses with a comprehensive analysis of a candidate's or employee's substance history.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Baileys Crossroads, VA

• Hair tests cut the risk of sample tampering drastically.
• Results are trustworthy and stand up to scrutiny.
• This method ensures integrity and reliability of results.

For those prioritizing secure and tamper-proof processes, hair follicle testing provides a robust solution.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Baileys Crossroads, VA

• With centers nationwide, accessing tests is effortless.
• Our local facilities deliver quick and convenient services.
• The widespread network supports hassle-free testing anytime.

Clients benefit from seamless, quick testing services with our extensive network of testing centers.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Baileys Crossroads, VA

• Ordering and receiving results is straightforward and discreet.
• We ensure that privacy concerns are addressed rigorously.
• The process is designed for ease and confidentiality.

Our simple and confidential testing procedure prioritizes user privacy and assurance at every step.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Baileys Crossroads, VA

• We offer competitive pricing for outstanding value.
• Our quick turnaround guarantees timely insights.
• Organizations of any size find our services exceptionally cost-effective.

Our pricing structures and swift results deliver considerable value and efficiency to businesses.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Baileys Crossroads, VA

• The precision of hair follicle drug tests ensures dependable results.
• These tests quickly detect substance use, offering swift solutions.
• For those seeking high accuracy, hair testing is unmatched.

Expediting the testing process, hair follicle analysis provides fast and accurate outcomes that align with industry standards, ensuring reliable evaluations every time.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Baileys Crossroads, VA

• Hair follicle testing adheres to workplace drug policies.
• It reduces legal liabilities, maintaining a safe work environment.
• Peace of mind for employers comes with compliance assurance.

Using hair tests, organizations meet regulatory standards, enhancing safety and ensuring operational integrity.

Drug Testing Near Baileys Crossroads, VA

Springfield, VA

North Springfield, VA

Huntington, VA

Rose Hill Farms, VA

Bristow, VA

Franconia, VA

Annandale, VA

Rose Hill, VA

West Falls Church, VA

Falls Church, VA

Arlington, VA

Lincolnia, VA

Seven Corners, VA

Lake Barcroft, VA

Bailey's Crossroads, VA