Accredited Drug Testing offers comprehensive hair follicle drug tests in Opal, Virginia. Whether it's a hair drug test you need or an alcohol analysis, we specialize in hair testing, with centers nationwide ready to conduct these tests. Typically, hair from the crown—1.5 to 2 inches long—or body hair can be used. Our hair tests analyze for drugs, alcohol/ETG, and offer other custom options.
Recently, hair follicle drug tests have become more common in drug screening processes. Employers, courts, and Substance Abuse professionals increasingly favor hair tests over standard urine tests. These tests serve employers enforcing zero-tolerance policies, courts, and probation individuals. They offer the advantage of a longer detection period—up to 90 days—and are nearly impossible to cheat during observed collections. Despite their benefits, urine tests remain more accurate for detecting recent drug use within the last 5 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 examination is increasingly recognized as a potent means for revealing drug and alcohol consumption. The hair's structure captures enduring traces of alcohol and drugs within the strands of the hair as it grows. When secured near the scalp, hair can reveal drug use for up to around three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A segment of hair measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of approximately 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It's suggested to assess the weight of the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unobtainable, an equivalent quantity of body hair might be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair signifies all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory evaluation of drug test samples involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially entered into a lab’s system. This phase includes checking that the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing data entry tasks not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial evaluation for drugs. While it serves as a cost-efficient method to eliminate potential drug use in the majority of cases, any positive result in Screening requires further verification for legal validity. Samples that test positive in Screening necessitate supplementary confirmation.
Should a sample test positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the primary specimen and prepared for Extraction. This phase involves drawing drugs from hair at a much lower concentration than methods like urine or oral fluid tests, making hair analysis the most challenging technique to execute.
The Confirmation process for any positive result in Screening is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all samples with presumptive positive results are cleansed as needed. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning through to Confirmation is evaluated according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The test typically referred to as a "hair follicle test" actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Opal, VA
Hair follicle testing outperforms urine tests by providing a broader detection window and higher accuracy. While traditional urine tests are limited to recent drug use, hair tests cover up to 90 days, offering a longer-term view of substance use. This enhances the ability to enforce drug-free environments in Opal, VA.
In addition to its extensive detection range, hair testing demonstrates superior reliability by reducing false negatives common in urine tests. It strengthens trust among employers, making it a more effective tool for comprehensive drug screening protocols.
Extended Detection Window in Opal, VA
One significant advantage of hair follicle testing in Opal, VA, is its extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior, it provides a detailed overview of an individual's substance history, far surpassing the capabilities of traditional tests.
This prolonged detection is invaluable to employers and legal authorities, offering a complete picture of a person’s substance habits. This clarity helps organizations make informed decisions about hiring and compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Opal, VA
Hair follicle drug tests offer a tamper-resistant approach to drug screening in Opal, VA. Unlike urine tests, which are susceptible to adulteration, hair tests provide reliable and unquestionable results due to the difficulty in altering hair samples.
By significantly reducing the likelihood of sample manipulation, these tests ensure accurate representations of an individual’s drug use, affirming the credibility required for both compliance and trust in drug testing programs.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Opal, VA
Our extensive network of testing centers, including those in Opal, VA, ensures easy access to hair follicle drug testing. Nationwide locations offer flexibility and convenience, allowing individuals to undertake tests hassle-free regardless of their location.
The availability of local testing centers reduces travel time and increases the accessibility of services, promoting a streamlined experience from testing to receiving the results, enhancing customer satisfaction across the board.
Simple, Confidential Process in Opal, VA
In Opal, VA, the process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and protects client confidentiality. From ordering to sample collection and result processing, each step is crafted to ensure privacy and simplicity.
This seamless approach addresses common concerns about drug testing, guaranteeing that sensitive information remains private while providing an efficient service. With minimal hassle, clients can rely on a secure yet unobtrusive testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Opal, VA
Our competitive pricing combined with rapid turnaround times makes hair follicle testing in Opal, VA, an attractive choice for businesses of all sizes. Companies benefit from excellent value, receiving quick, accurate results without substantial financial burden.
This affordability encourages implementation of comprehensive drug screening practices, supporting business goals and ensuring peace of mind with efficient, budget-friendly solutions tailored to diverse organizational needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Opal, VA
The precision and speed of hair follicle drug testing is remarkable in Opal, VA. These tests stand out for their high accuracy, detecting various substances with unmatched reliability. The advanced analysis ensures quick processing times while maintaining the integrity of each result, providing clients with dependable outcomes.
When time is of the essence, hair follicle testing delivers swift and consistent reports. This reliability is crucial for both employers and individuals seeking timely and credible drug use assessments. As a preferred choice for its efficiency, it alleviates concerns associated with delays and false readings.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Opal, VA
Employing hair follicle testing in Opal, VA, ensures that employers meet drug-free policy compliance standards. These tests help mitigate legal risks and enhance workplace safety by providing accurate, long-term drug use histories.
The reliability of hair tests fosters peace of mind, reinforcing a responsible company culture while protecting against potential liabilities. This security strengthens an organization's commitment to a safe, productive, and lawful working environment.
