The lovely record – a checklist is useful!

Every project manager instinctively tries to keep the effort involved in record-keeping to a minimum. However, important information can be lost in the process. Adhering to the GenTAufzV (Genetic Engineering Record-Keeping Ordinance) is crucial. A checklist can help with this! In discussions with project managers and those responsible for record-keeping, the topic of record-keeping is quickly met with a roll of the eyes, as most see this task as a time-waster. Added to this is often a certain dissatisfaction, as there is often a lack of clarity about what actually needs to be recorded, and especially in what form. "Form Z" is on everyone's lips. It should be noted right away that this is not an official form, which means that while it can be used, it can also be replaced by another form of record. Nevertheless, Form Z contains all the essential information that must be recorded according to the Ordinance on Records for Genetic Engineering Work and Releases (Genetic Engineering Record-Keeping Ordinance – GenTAufzV). However, it is advisable to consider the extent to which the records can be integrated into everyday laboratory work. It may be useful to supplement the records with various parameters, such as the storage location of the GMO, so that the recording itself becomes more meaningful for everyone involved. In this way – well integrated into everyday laboratory work – the recording becomes a routine activity that is soon incorporated into the general process. Nevertheless, it must of course be ensured that all necessary and mandatory points according to the GenTAufzV are included. For this reason, it can be very helpful to create a checklist based on the GenTAufzV and to review your own records against it. Missing points can then be quickly identified and added or adjusted accordingly.

For March, I would then write something about the project manager's file number.