Accredited Drug Testing offers comprehensive hair follicle drug tests in Lake Ridge, Virginia. If you're seeking a hair or alcohol analysis, Accredited Drug Testing is proficient in hair screening, with centers across all cities Nationwide. You should have 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the crown or body for most tests. Hair analyses cover drugs, alcohol/ETG, or other tailored hair testing services.
In recent times, the approach for drug testing has increasingly involved hair follicle analysis. Employers, courts, and Substance Abuse professionals are leaning towards hair tests over traditional urine exams. Hair follicle tests are preferred by organizations with strict no-drug policies, judicial systems, and probation programs. A primary benefit is the extended drug detection window, usually reaching up to 90 days, collected through monitored processes, making tampering virtually impossible. However, to assess drug use within 5 days, urine tests remain the most precise.
* 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.
Utilizing hair testing has emerged as a significant method for identifying the presence of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drug usage by trapping specific biomarkers within the fiber matrix of the hair as it grows. When collected adjacent to the scalp, hair samples can reveal alcohol and drug consumption over approximately a 90-day period. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and can be easily transported.
For optimal screening and confirmation, a hair sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of roughly 200 strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) can yield about 100mg of hair. For tests like EtG, additional assessments, and panels exceeding 10, collecting 150mg of hair is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When referencing head hair, it specifically means scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key phases in processing a lab-based drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial sample intake into the lab's system. This procedure includes confirming the sample was sealed and transported correctly, providing a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing additional data entry if not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial, rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While it’s cost-effective for negating drug usage in most samples, any positive findings require further verification to hold up in legal settings. Samples testing presumptively positive in this phase necessitate confirmation.
In instances of presumptive positives from Screening, more hair is extracted from the sample for further processing. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing poses such challenges.
Confirmation for positive screenings is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with presumptive positives undergo cleansing before confirmation if warranted. The complete lab process, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is audited under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and aligns with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the examination actually scrutinizes the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lake Ridge, VA
In comparison to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing stands out with superior detection accuracy. Its ability to uncover long-term drug use history ensures reliability in assessments. The minimal chance of tampering, coupled with comprehensive detection capabilities, makes hair testing a preferred choice, offering broader insights into substance use patterns.
Extended Detection Window in Lake Ridge, VA
One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug use over up to 90 days, this method provides employers with a thorough understanding of a person's past substance use, thus enabling more informed decisions regarding potential hires or ongoing employee policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lake Ridge, VA
Hair follicle tests significantly diminish the risk of sample adulteration, thereby delivering dependable and unquestionable results. The rigorousness of the hair analysis makes it a favored choice for organizations and legal bodies, ensuring authenticity and accuracy in drug testing outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lake Ridge, VA
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers offers seamless access to testing services. Whether in Lake Ridge or elsewhere, our locations ensure easy and hassle-free testing experiences, meeting the diverse needs of clients efficiently and effectively.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lake Ridge, VA
The process for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential. With a focus on user privacy and ease of use, clients can navigate the testing procedures confidently, assured of discretion and simplicity throughout each phase.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lake Ridge, VA
Offering competitive pricing, we ensure companies of all sizes receive excellent value. Our efficient service includes swift turnaround times, providing peace of mind and maintaining business productivity without breaking the bank. The affordability of our services makes regular testing accessible and sustainable.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lake Ridge, VA
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its precision and speed in identifying substance use, providing highly accurate results. The analytical process ensures that results are dependable, aiding employers and institutions in making informed decisions. With quick turnaround times, this method offers timely insights necessary for efficient workforce management.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lake Ridge, VA
Hair follicle testing helps corporations stay compliant with drug-free workplace mandates, reducing legal liabilities. Implementing this testing enhances the overall safety and integrity of the workplace, giving employers peace of mind and maintaining a healthy work environment aligned with company policies.