Handling
Sample identification and laboratory traceability
Practical principles for unique sample identification, connecting receipt to analysis, managing aliquots and maintaining auditable laboratory records.
An internal identifier should be unique, readable and independent of assumptions about the result. Its structure may include year and sequence,…
02Identification from receipt to analysisSample identification should remain consistent across labels, receipt registers, preparation records, instrument sequences and final reports. Agreement of name and unique…
03Parent sample and aliquotsEach aliquot connects to the parent material, preparation method, quantity and location. Transfers between containers are recorded so an analytical result…
04Audit trailCorrections preserve the original entry, reason, time and responsible person. Traceability allows work to be reconstructed without publishing operational codes. On…
A unique, neutral identifier
An internal identifier should be unique, readable and independent of assumptions about the result. Its structure may include year and sequence, but should not expose personal data or change when interpretation changes.
Identification from receipt to analysis
Sample identification should remain consistent across labels, receipt registers, preparation records, instrument sequences and final reports. Agreement of name and unique identifier allows every result to be connected to the material actually examined.
Parent sample and aliquots
Each aliquot connects to the parent material, preparation method, quantity and location. Transfers between containers are recorded so an analytical result can be traced to the material actually used.
Audit trail
Corrections preserve the original entry, reason, time and responsible person. Traceability allows work to be reconstructed without publishing operational codes. On the commercial website, analytical documentation can be available on request.
LABORATORY APPLICATION
Turning the principle into an auditable record
Define identifier format, issuance rules, label, location register and connection to instrument records. Check that exported files, handwritten notes and final reports use the same identifier. Codes are disclosed only when there is a lawful and operational reason.
PRIMARY & OFFICIAL SOURCES
Sources and further reading
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions specific to this topic
What is sample identification?
It is the consistent association of one unique identifier with the same material at every stage, from receipt and labelling through analysis and reporting.
What makes a good identifier?
It is unique, neutral, stable, readable and does not expose unnecessary personal data.
Should every aliquot have its own code?
When movements or analyses must be distinguished, yes, with clear linkage to the parent sample.
Must identifiers be public?
No. Internal traceability can be complete while documentation is supplied only to appropriate recipients.