Do a laboratory security risk assessment and a laboratory security program need to be documented?

A laboratory security risk assessment and a laboratory security program should indeed be documented to ensure the effectiveness of the security measures in place. Documentation serves multiple purposes, including enabling consistent implementation of the security protocols, allowing for regular reviews and updates, and providing evidence of compliance with standards and regulations. Having a documented security plan helps in identifying potential vulnerabilities, assigning responsibilities, and establishing procedures to respond to security incidents.

While some may think that documentation is unnecessary, especially for small labs or those not governed by specific regulations, it is essential for accountability and can improve the overall security posture regardless of the size of the laboratory. Proper documentation can also serve as a reference tool for training new staff and ensuring that everyone is aware of the security protocols that are in place. Therefore, it is critical for laboratories of all sizes to maintain documented security assessments and programs.