IT Recycling for Laboratories

Lab results are stored on more than the LIS server

Analyzers and sequencers are usually driven by a dedicated control PC that keeps run files, patient or sample identifiers and results, often for years after they were sent to the LIS.

Clinical labs hold patient results. Research labs hold unpublished data, sponsor information and sometimes material covered by contracts or export rules. Both end up on the same kinds of drives.

Labs often retire computing equipment during an instrument swap or a move. That is the moment drives get separated from their paperwork, so the inventory needs to be written down before anything leaves.

Retention first, then documented disposal

1. Clinical labs must keep test records for the periods set by CLIA (42 CFR 493.1105) and by their accreditor. Confirm that data has been migrated or retained before a system is retired.
2. Patient results are protected health information, so the HIPAA Security Rule disposal requirements (45 CFR 164.310(d)(2)) apply, along with Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 181.
3. Research data is governed by your sponsor agreements and institutional policies. A serialized Certificate of Destruction gives your compliance office a dated record of which drives were processed and how.

EverTrade is not R2 certified; downstream material is routed through certified partners. See our standards and practices.

Laboratories FAQ