Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Belmont, VA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is now regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair traps biomarkers within its fibers, offering a comprehensive timeline of alcohol and drug use. Collected near the scalp, it provides a detection window of up to three months for substances. It's easy to gather, hard to tamper, and straightforward to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment containing around 200 hair strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) cut near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the perfect amount for testing. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It's best to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equal quantity of body hair is acceptable. The term 'head hair' only includes scalp hair, while 'body hair' covers all other types (face, armpits, etc.).

Process Overview

The key steps in the laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

In Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the lab's system. This involves ensuring the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any pending data entry not already covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary examination for substances of abuse. Although cost-efficient for eliminating drug use for most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for court admissibility. Any samples flagged as presumptively positive require additional verification.

If a sample tests presumptively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are removed from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug testing is among the toughest methodologies.

Confirmation of a positive screening result is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives are washed prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can reveal drug use history for up to 90 days, compared to urine tests with a shorter detection timeline.
• Difficulty in deception: Cheating a hair drug test is extremely challenging, ensuring more reliable outcomes.
• Historical data provision: It showcases a timeline of drug use, not just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to identify recent use: It takes around 5-7 days for drugs to be detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests are typically pricier than alternative drug testing methods.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests," the actual test examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Advantages of Hair Follicle Testing over Urine Testing
In Belmont, VA, the benefits of hair follicle testing surpass traditional urine assessments. Hair tests provide enhanced detection accuracy, with a broader window for tracking drug use. Employers often prioritize hair testing for its reliability and comprehensive insights into an individual's substance history, which traditional urine tests may not offer.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window of Hair Follicle Testing
In Belmont, VA, hair follicle tests offer a prolonged detection timeframe, commonly up to 90 days. This expanded window allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an individual's drug use history. By providing extended insights, hair testing supports informed decision-making, unlike standard short-term detection methods.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method with Hair Follicle Testing
Offering significant protection against sample tampering, hair follicle testing in Belmont, VA, delivers irrefutable results. Unlike other methods, where manipulation is a concern, hair testing's inherent reliability ensures that outcomes remain uncompromised, underscoring its value as a dependable testing method.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Testing Locations Nationwide and Locally
In Belmont, VA, utilizing our expansive network of testing centers offers effortless access to our services. With locations nationwide, securing a test is both quick and seamless. Our widespread centers ensure that whether you're local or afar, testing remains a hassle-free process.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple and Confidential Testing Process
Our straightforward and discreet testing method in Belmont, VA, caters to those valuing privacy. Ordering, completing, and receiving results is a seamless procedure, underscoring our commitment to maintaining confidentiality without compromising ease of use, allaying any concerns over privacy issues.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Competitive Pricing with Fast Turnaround
Belmont, VA offers unbeatable rates and rapid processing times for hair testing. Our cost-effective structure ensures companies of all sizes receive excellent value alongside peace of mind. The swift turnaround enhances our offering, ensuring that clients never have to compromise on quality or affordability.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results with Hair Tests
Located in Belmont, VA, our hair follicle tests stand out for their swift and precise outcomes. The technique offers exceptional accuracy in identifying substance use, making them a preferred choice for those seeking trustworthy results. By effectively pinpointing drug and alcohol usage, hair tests ensure that clients receive the reliable data they need.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
For Belmont, VA employers, hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks while enhancing safety. By employing this testing method, businesses can foster a secure environment and maintain compliance, offering a greater sense of security for both employees and employers.

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