03/11/2025
🧾 RCPath & IBMS Release Updated Retention and Storage Guidance!
The new 6th Edition sets out revised standards for how long laboratories must keep records, specimens and digital data — with stronger focus on sustainability, ISO 15189 alignment and data protection.
👇 Read the full post below for key updates every lab should know!
🧾 New Joint Guidance from RCPath and IBMS: Retention & Storage of Pathological Records and Specimens (6th Edition, 2025)
The Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath), in collaboration with the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), has released the 6th Edition of “The Retention and Storage of Pathological Records and Specimens”, providing updated best-practice recommendations for all pathology and laboratory services across the UK.
💡 Key updates in this edition include:
Revised retention times, including histological tissue sections (minimum 8 years).
Updated advice on digital records and images, including LIMS configuration data for improved system resilience.
Alignment with ISO 15189:2022 and ISO 22870 for Point-of-Care Testing (POCT).
Greater emphasis on sustainability, environmental impact, and cost-effective record management.
Integration of data protection, UK GDPR, and the latest Records Management Code of Practice 2023.
🔍 Why it matters:
These updates support laboratories in maintaining compliance, ensuring data integrity, and safeguarding patient care through traceable, secure, and sustainable record management.
🧠 For pathology and biomedical science professionals:
Now is the time to review your department’s retention schedules, SOPs, and digital storage procedures to ensure they reflect the new guidance.
💬 What’s your view?
Has your laboratory started aligning with the new RCPath/IBMS retention standards? Share your experience below ⬇️
