What’s Possible With Lab Sample Barcoding?

Seeking greater lab efficiency? Lab sample barcoding could be the ideal upgrade to elevate your sample management to a higher standard. Barcoding involves the use of a scanner with barcode labels to update and track labeled items. In a laboratory, virtually anything can benefit from barcoding, but it’s most commonly employed for sample tracking and inventory management. In general, labs consider barcode scanners invaluable due to their precision, efficiency and robust capabilities.

 

Barcoding Helps Lab Efficiency

Using barcode scanners helps anyone interacting with samples work quickly, with metadata and lineage data for a sample loading instantaneously into your lab inventory system with a quick scan. This simplifies and speeds the handling process when accessioning new sample shipments, processing and aliquoting, freezer and storage organizing, and any exporting of samples or sample data. Additionally, barcode scanners help efficiency when searching for stored samples, helping lab workers quickly identify and verify the correct lineage of samples.

 

Improved Accuracy

Having data transferred via barcode scan reduces errors during registration and handling. Barcoding allows lab workers to avoid typing mistakes and errors due to misidentified handwriting. The scanner and software transfer the data directly to the software needed for whichever task is being done. The simplified data transfer also allows for samples to have less transition time between freezers in transport or between benches, further reducing the opportunity for mistakes and helping to preserve the integrity of samples.

 

Enhanced Traceability

Using lab sample barcoding enhances traceability as part of a comprehensive data management solution. Barcoding ensures each sample is connected to a unique ID, making it easy to store, find, and study the information about the samples. It also helps keep track of actions taken with samples and by whom. 

 

What Else Can I Do in the Lab With Barcoding Equipment?

Barcoding is a versatile system of tools that is only limited by the lab manager’s creativity and ability to get others on board. 

• Manage More Metadata: Barcode equipment can be used to track important metadata, such as calibration dates, repair dates, and model numbers, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records.
• Efficient Inventory Management: Streamline lab inventory management by using barcodes to automatically keep track of stock levels, making it easier to monitor supplies and reorder when needed.
• Initiate Instrument Automation: Utilize barcodes to kickstart instrument automation, simplifying and speeding up various lab processes for greater efficiency and accuracy.