4 Tips on Laboratory Sample Management and Storage

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The quality of the product or service that any laboratory produces or provides depends on the quality of the management and storage of the samples used in the tests. This requires a diligent and proactive attitude at every step of the sample management workflow.

You risk compromising data traceability if you don't manage your sample collection, or if you don't accurately record and store samples. Care with sample storage is essential to ensure the delivery of correct results, without any variation due to non-conforming samples.

Results VS Samples

That's because everything is connected: the quality of your results depends on the quality of your samples, which is in turn determined by the effectiveness of your sample management and storage workflow.

Simple mistakes, at any stage of the sample management chain, can lead to catastrophic results, and while this may sound dramatic, we know that manual management without any traceability generates immense and often irreversible losses.

Storage of Samples

When we talk about sample storage, we need to be even more careful since the integrity of the sample can be compromised if it is stored irregularly. It is necessary to ensure adequate temperatures, proper functioning of the equipment, attention to protection standards, adequate signaling system, among other precautions. With that in mind, here are 4 Tips About Sample Management and Storage:

1. A robust system that generates labels and integrates with barcode scanners significantly reduces the time required to enter sample information and increases the accuracy of data entry.
   

2. The automation of processes allows from the calibration of instruments to the simplification of sample preparation, optimizing time and eliminating errors resulting from manual processes.
   

3. Sample storage standards are part of the analysis system within a laboratory and aim to ensure effective transport, temperature controls, and sample consistency.
   

4. ISO standards and well-stored samples are indispensable details for high-level laboratories. Being within the standards brings excellence in management, expands the credibility and competitive advantage of the laboratory.
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Learn More: Compliance Made Simple: Harness the Full Potential of LIMS Automation in Your Lab


Although traditional methods are widely used, such as Excel control spreadsheets, more and more laboratories are adopting Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) software. And they find that eliminating manual work can make sample management more efficient and minimize errors in lost or non-conforming samples.

Learn more: How to Justify the Purchase of a LIMS

Technological Ally

By implementing a LIMS, the laboratory manager can have an ally to keep the samples within specifications, have more control of processes, alerts and notifications of non-conformities, issuance of labels and data in real time.

Transform your Sample Management Strategy

Building an effective sample management strategy in a laboratory is crucial for ensuring data integrity, traceability, and operational efficiency. By leveraging a LIMS, laboratories can automate and streamline the entire sample lifecycle—from collection and registration to storage, analysis, and disposal.  

A LIMS enables real-time tracking of sample locations, supports compliance with regulatory requirements, and reduces the risk of errors associated with manual processes. Additionally, it facilitates secure data sharing and audit trails, enhancing collaboration among teams.  

Implementing a robust LIMS-driven sample management strategy ultimately improves productivity, accuracy, and the overall quality of laboratory operations.

If you would like to learn more about how to build an effective sample management strategy, contact a myLIMS expert and see how we can automate some of your laboratory's processes and ensure control and speed in the collection, storage and transport of samples.

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