A basic rule of effective quality systems is "If it's not written down, it didn't happen." Thus, documentation is essential to the laboratory safety program. Documentation must include the program and records of:

• Program audits
• Incidents
• Training
• updates
• Medical issues

The actual length of time that a document must be kept may vary depending upon the nature of the documentation.  Medical records are usually kept for thirty years, while training records may only be kept for five years.  The responsible party or parties in the laboratory must verify that the document retention policy complies with all requirements.

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