Environmental ChildGuard® Exposure Screening & Collection

Environmental ChildGuard® is a specialized screening tool designed to detect evidence of environmental exposure in children. It is not a standard drug test; instead, it analyzes hair or surface wipe specimens to identify passive or environmental contact with certain substances in a child’s surroundings.

This service is often requested by family services professionals, legal representatives, and healthcare providers seeking objective information as part of a broader assessment.

Every collection is performed by a trained collector following strict chain-of-custody and clinical handling protocols. We document the collection process, verify identity, and package the specimen in tamper-evident materials for transport to the laboratory.

• Private, compassionate collection environment
• Strict chain-of-custody documentation
• Tamper-evident packaging and secure transport
• Results reported directly by the laboratory to authorized recipients

Hair specimen: A small sample of hair is collected to screen for potential environmental exposure over a detection window. Hair collection is non-invasive and does not require a blood draw.

Wipe specimen: A surface wipe may be collected from an item or area the child frequently contacts to evaluate the presence of substances in the environment.

The appropriate specimen type is determined by the ordering party and the requirements of the partner laboratory.

ChildGuard® collections are commonly requested by pediatric case managers, family law professionals, social workers, and healthcare providers involved in child welfare matters.

We serve individuals, attorneys, courts, and healthcare providers across the Tri-State region. Collection is available at our Hagerstown location or as a mobile appointment in your home, office, or facility.

All ChildGuard® specimens are forwarded to an accredited, SAMHSA-certified specialty laboratory. The laboratory performs the testing methodology, quality control, certified review, and reporting of results directly to the authorized recipient.

Community Care Labs provides professional collection services only and does not interpret test results or provide medical diagnoses. Please review our Privacy & Disclaimer for full details.

Based in Hagerstown, MD, we provide Environmental ChildGuard® collection services throughout western Maryland, the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, and south-central Pennsylvania.

Mobile appointments are available for home, office, or facility visits. If your location is not listed, call 240-413-3952 to discuss availability.

Booking is available online, or you can contact us by phone or email. We will confirm the specimen type, required documentation, and any special instructions for your ChildGuard® collection.

What is a chain of custody and why does it matter?

Chain of custody is a documented, unbroken record of who collected, handled, and transported the specimen from the moment it leaves the donor until it reaches the laboratory. It matters because it protects the integrity of the specimen, prevents tampering, and ensures the result can be trusted by employers, courts, and healthcare providers.

What is a tamper-evident seal?

A tamper-evident seal is a specialized adhesive closure placed on the specimen container and transport packaging. If anyone tries to open or alter the package, the seal shows visible damage, so the laboratory can identify a compromised specimen before testing.

Who receives the test results?

Results are released directly by the accredited partner laboratory to the authorized ordering party — typically the employer, attorney, court, healthcare provider, or individual who requested the test. Community Care Labs performs collection only and does not receive, interpret, or distribute results.

How long do ChildGuard® results take?

Turnaround time depends on the specimen type and the partner laboratory’s current processing schedule. Most ChildGuard® screenings are reported within a few business days after the laboratory receives the specimen. We can provide general guidance when you book, but the laboratory of record controls final reporting.

Is Environmental ChildGuard® the same as a child drug test?

No. Environmental ChildGuard® is designed to detect evidence of environmental exposure — such as substances in a child’s surroundings — not to diagnose substance use by the child. It is often used alongside other assessments by family services professionals, legal representatives, and healthcare providers.