Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Ridgecrest, LA

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. This technique offers an extended record of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When taken from near the scalp, the sample can reveal up to a three-month history of drug and alcohol use. Hair is straightforward to acquire, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.

Gathering a 1.5-inch portion of roughly 200 hairs, equivalent to the width of a #2 pencil, from close to the scalp yields an optimal sample size of 100mg for both screening and verification. For EtG, additions, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

Four primary stages are involved in the lab analysis for drug test outcomes: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning consists of the initial integration of a sample into a lab's operations. This step confirms the sample's seal and proper shipping, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and adds any missing data not included in an electronic chain of custody.

Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for substance abuse. While Screening is economically efficient for dismissing drug usage in most samples, court-admissible results must be confirmed. Samples that are initially positive in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.

Should a sample test presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the first sample for further processing in the Extraction phase. At this point, drugs are isolated from hair at substantially lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most complex method to conduct.

Confirmation of any positive findings from Screening is executed via methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before Confirmation, presumptive positive samples undergo washing as required. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and conforms to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair tests identify drug use for up to 90 days, whereas urine tests have a more limited detection frame.
• Hard to compromise: Cheating a hair drug test is challenging, resulting in enhanced accuracy.
• Shows usage trends: It reflects a pattern of substance use over time, not just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: Drugs take about 5-7 days to be detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug testing tends to be costlier than alternative methods.
• Inconsistent results: Variables such as hair color and individual differences in hair growth can impact drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: The term "hair follicle tests" often refers to this process, though it examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing surpasses urine testing in Ridgecrest, LA due to its superior accuracy and extended detection period. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair tests provide a more reliable reflection of an individual's substance use history. With a longer detection window and a lower risk of tampering, hair follicle tests are the preferred choice for many employers and professionals seeking dependable results.

Extended Detection Window

In Ridgecrest, LA, hair follicle tests offer an extended detection window, capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior. This comprehensive view allows employers to gain a clearer understanding of an individual's substance history. Such an extended timeframe provides a more accurate picture of long-term habits compared to shorter detection windows offered by other testing methods.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests in Ridgecrest, LA significantly minimize the chances of sample adulteration, offering assurance with trusted results. These tests are particularly robust against tampering given their observed collection process, ensuring the integrity of the test sample. For employers and individuals alike, this testing method stands out for its reliability in detecting substance use.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With convenient testing locations in Ridgecrest, LA and nationwide, our drug testing services offer easy access and hassle-free testing experiences. This extensive network ensures that individuals and businesses have the flexibility to quickly access our facilities, making drug testing simple and efficient no matter where you are located.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process for hair follicle testing in Ridgecrest, LA is straightforward and confidential. Ordering, conducting, and receiving test results is seamless, with privacy being a top priority. The discreet nature of the process addresses any concerns individuals might have about confidentiality while ensuring ease of use and efficiency.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Our hair follicle testing services in Ridgecrest, LA are competitively priced, ensuring affordable access to high-quality testing. The fast turnaround times for results provide excellent value, allowing companies of all sizes to manage their testing needs without strain on budgets. This combination of affordability and speedy service sets our testing options apart.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Ridgecrest, LA, hair follicle drug tests are known for their remarkable speed and precision. These tests are highly adept at detecting various substances with exceptional accuracy. Whether for workplace compliance or personal reasons, these tests offer quick and reliable results that set them apart from traditional testing methods. Their advanced technology ensures results are both timely and trustworthy.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Ridgecrest, LA can achieve peace of mind and workplace safety through compliance with drug-free policies facilitated by hair follicle testing. By reducing legal risks and ensuring adherence to regulations, this testing method enhances safety and maintains a compliant environment, contributing to an overall trustworthy and secure workplace setting.

Drug Testing Near Ridgecrest, LA

Highpoint, FL

North Redington Beach, FL

Redington Shores, FL

Four Corners, FL

Clearwater, FL

Bardmoor, FL

Boca Ciega, FL

Indian Rocks Beach, FL

Belleair Shores, FL

Belleair Beach, FL

Belleair, FL

Belleair Bluffs, FL

Harbor Bluffs, FL

Largo, FL

Baskin, FL