Hamilton Storage Technologies has introduced sample management and tracking software for its automated -80C Sample Access Manager (SAM).
This provides functionality and documentation to support chain-of-custody and 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.
The program offers a range of reports and access-control functions, from the high-level administrative creation of user groups and the rights to detailed audit trails of individual samples.
The SAM software enables customers to safely store compounds and biological samples with back-up reports to document administrator-determined levels of information detail.
Password login ensures that users can only access samples for which they are authorised.
The system includes an electronic signature capability for 21 CFR Part 11 applications.
In cherry-picking applications, each time the sample is removed from storage, a complete log is updated as to who took it out, who returned it and how long it was out of the -80C environment.
SAM can also create a log of the temperatures that the sample was exposed to while in storage, which is important in clinical trial and diagnostic applications.
Matt Hamilton, vice-president of Hamilton Storage Technologies, said: 'This new software, with its flexible configuration options and library of reports, is ideal for regulated environments.
'Chain-of-custody and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance support are new to the cold-storage marketplace and were developed in response to customer needs,' he added.
A high-level report can be created at any time for any sample showing how long it has been in the system, how many times it has been taken out, how long it was out and a complete temperature history.
A complete audit trail report can be produced for any specific sample, making it suitable for forensics applications.
The administrator can set thresholds and alarms for desired sample storage and handling conditions.
The system can also produce a regular diagnostic report for the service administrator.
The -80C SAM ensures sample integrity by maintaining a precise storage environment at user-determined levels, between -60C and -80C.
The system offers sample format flexibility, cherry picking, sample tracking and software within a compact footprint.
The -80C can handle microplates or a variety of tube sizes and is ideal for the storage of nucleic acids, tissues, proteins and compounds, according to the company.
