Traceability in Laboratories: How to Improve Quality Control and Avoid Errors

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In the world of quality control, accuracy is non-negotiable. A minimal mistake can trigger major economic losses, health risks or regulatory breaches. This is where a fundamental concept comes into play: traceability in laboratories.

Traceability is key in quality control because it allows you to follow the complete trail of a sample, from its origin to the final result of the analysis. It is essential to ensure quality in laboratories, prevent errors, facilitate audits and optimize processes.

In this article, we'll explore why it's imperative to implement robust traceability systems and how they can transform your lab or industry operation.

What does traceability do in quality control laboratories?

Laboratory traceability is the ability to track every stage of the life cycle of a sample or analysis, from its origin to the delivery of the final result. This follow-up includes:  

• The origin of the exhibition  

• Record Transportation and Storage Conditions  

• Document equipment, supplies, and personnel involved  

• Track analytical results with secure records  

• Verify calculations and versions of the final result  

In simple words: traceability allows you to reconstruct everything that happened with a sample, when, how, where and by whom.  

Benefits of Traceability in Laboratories

1. Reduced errors and rework

Digitally and automatically recording each step eliminates manual transcription of data, one of the main sources of error in laboratories.  

Example: in industries such as food manufacturing, an identification error can mean the destruction of entire batches as a health precaution.

2. Compliance

Traceability is a basic requirement in regulations such as:  

• ISO/IEC 17025 (Laboratory Technical Competence)  

• ISO 9001 (Quality Management Systems)  

• GLP / Good Laboratory Practices
  

3. Acceleration of audits and improvement of KPIs

Having auditable and accessible records allows you to respond quickly to agencies and facilitates the analysis of critical indicators: cycle times, deviations, reanalysis, among others.  

Learn More: Compliance Made Simple: Harness the Full Potential of LIMS Automation in Your Lab

4. Decisions based on reliable data

When historical analysis behavior can be accurately tracked, opportunities open up to detect deviations, trends, and optimize processes.  

Common Mistakes Due to Lack of Traceability

• Samples without unique identification  

• Analyses carried out without associating inputs or responsible parties  

• Results in Excel sheets without backup  

• Manual reports without digital signature or version control  

• Data loss when using paper or fragile channels such as mail or shared networks

Conclusion: without digital traceability, processes are exposed to operational failures, legal risks and loss of credibility.

How to Implement Traceability in your Laboratory

Step 1: Digitize Records

Paper is the enemy of efficient traceability. Implementing a LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) such as myLIMS allows you to automatically record each event on the platform, from sample input to report issuance.  

Step 2: Set Unique Identifiers

Each sample must have a unique identifier that accompanies it throughout its life cycle. This prevents confusion, duplication, and tracking errors.

Step 3: Integrate Devices and Systems

A robust traceability system should connect with:  

• Measuring Equipment  

• Production systems  

• Mobile Data Collection Devices  

This ensures that data is recorded in real-time and more accurately.  

Step 4: Train the Team

Traceability is only as strong as its weakest link. That's why it's crucial to train the team on best practices, use of the system, and individual responsibilities.  

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about Traceability in Laboratories

• What is traceability in a laboratory?

It is the complete monitoring of a sample from its collection to the issuance of the result, guaranteeing the integrity of the data.  

• Is having records in Excel enough?

No. Excel does not guarantee integrity, security, or robust traceability. It does not offer automatic history, version control or digital signatures.  

• Does traceability help reduce costs?

Yes. By reducing rework, errors, and improving operational efficiency, costs decrease significantly.  

• Does a LIMS guarantee traceability?

A well-implemented LIMS like myLIMS allows for full traceability, with automatic logging, access control, and auditable.  

Conclusion

Traceability is the backbone of modern quality control. It ensures the integrity of results, improves operational efficiency, and complies with demanding regulations.

It's not just about recording data, it's about turning it into useful, secure, and available information at all times.  

Did your lab pass its last audit without any observations?

If traceability is not assured, it is time to act. Schedule a personalized demo and learn how myLIMS can digitize and shield your quality processes.