In this blog, we’ll discuss:
- The critical role of data integrity in regulatory compliance and microbial monitoring
- The challenges of manual data entry with traditional settle and contact plates
- The benefits of side labelling locking plates with GS1 DataMatrix codes for faster and more efficient scanning
- How GS1 DataMatrix codes improve traceability and audit readiness
The Importance of Data Integrity in Environmental Monitoring
In pharmaceutical and medical manufacturing, data integrity is fundamental. Every stage of the environmental monitoring process must be accurately recorded, ensuring traceability and compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines. Regulatory bodies, such as the MHRA and FDA, require precise, auditable records that demonstrate contamination control measures are being followed.
Standard settle plates and contact plates have long been used for microbial monitoring. These plates are a known factor and fit existing workflows – but when it comes to efficient and accurate data management, they introduce challenges that could be avoided with locking alternatives, such as Redipor TwistLock plates, with GS1 DataMatrix barcodes.
The Challenges of Standard Plates
One of the main limitations of standard settle and contact plates is the placement of GS1 DataMatrix codes on the underside. While this positioning might seem like a minor inconvenience, it creates inefficiencies in laboratory workflows.
Since the code is on the underside of the plate, lab technicians must manually pick up each one and turn it over to enable scanning. This slows down processing times and increases the risk of human error. In busy labs, where hundreds of plates may be processed daily, misreads and transcription mistakes can lead to data inaccuracies, compromising regulatory compliance.
Furthermore, excessive handling of standard plates increases the risk of accidental contamination. A plate that’s frequently manipulated is more likely to experience movement of the lid, exposing the sample to externa l contaminants. This can lead to false positives, unnecessary investigations, and the need for costly re-sampling.
How Locking Plates Improve Traceability and Efficiency
Locking settle and contact plates, such as Redipor TwistLock, offer a simple yet effective way to enhance workflow efficiency and traceability. One of their key design features is that the GS1 DataMatrix code is positioned on the side of the plate, rather than underneath.
In addition, locking plates feature GS1 DataMatrix codes positioned on the side, which makes scanning plates much faster: instead of having to lift each plate individually, lab personnel can quickly scan plates in a stack without having to handle each one. This reduces workflow interruptions and increases processing speed.
The greater ease and speed of scanning TwistLock plates compared with standard plates is evident in our video. The results highlight the significant time savings and reduction in handling errors when using side-labelled plates.
Automated Tracking and Data Integrity
Beyond the immediate convenience of side labelling, locking plates improve traceability by integrating seamlessly with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
Each plate carries a unique identifier, allowing laboratories to accurately track key details. These include:
- Sample origin – where and when the sample was collected
- Storage conditions – how the plate was transported and incubated
- Testing data – ensuring results are logged correctly
By reducing reliance on manual data entry, the chances of transcription errors are minimised, resulting in more accurate and reliable records.
Regulatory Compliance and Audit Readiness
With increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities, maintaining audit-ready records is more important than ever. Pharmaceutical manufacturers must be able to provide complete and accurate documentation that supports their environmental monitoring procedures.
Locking plates with side labelling of GS1 DataMatrix codes contribute to stronger data integrity by:
- Ensuring accurate plate tracking – every plate can be quickly identified and referenced
- Eliminating manual data entry errors – automated scanning reduces misreads and inaccuracies
- Improving audit readiness – digital records are more reliable and easier to retrieve during inspections
With standard plates, laboratories often rely on handwritten labels or manually entered data, increasing the risk of transcription errors. Locking plates with GS1 DataMatrix codes help eliminate these weaknesses, strengthening compliance with Good Documentation Practice (GDocP) regulations.
The Long-Term Benefits of Secure Settle Plates
Switching to locking plates provides a future-proof approach to data integrity in environmental monitoring. As regulatory requirements evolve and laboratories increasingly move towards automation, plates with integrated tracking solutions will become even more valuable.
Ensuring the efficiency of data-handling processes will be a key factor in minimising the impact on productivity, which is where side-labelling of GS1 DataMatrix codes represents a significant advantage.
Key benefits of locking plates include:
- Greater efficiency – faster scanning means less time spent on data entry
- Improved accuracy – side labelling reduces the risk of human error
- Reduced contamination risk – greater security during handling and transportation keeps samples protected
By implementing locking settle and contact plates with enhanced tracking and traceability, pharmaceutical manufacturers can ensure data accuracy, regulatory compliance, and streamline environmental monitoring processes.
For more information on our TwistLock locking plates or Cherwell’s range of Redipor prepared media products, contact our team today.
