Sample aliquoting process flowchart
An editable sample aliquoting workflow for verifying source identity and condition, preparing containers and an aliquot plan, checking labels and volumes, resolving discrepancies and recording the result.
What the sample aliquoting process is
The chart starts with an aliquot request, verifies the source sample, prepares containers and an aliquot plan, then checks the resulting labels and volumes before release. It is an editable foundation for the methods and handling controls your laboratory actually uses.
The exception branches prevent a source discrepancy or label-and-volume mismatch from being hidden in normal preparation. Both route through a controlled hold or reconciliation path before the aliquot record is closed.
This template does not establish compliance with any standard or regulation. Confirm the handling method, container selection, identity controls, review requirements and local records that apply at your site before making it effective.
What this flowchart covers
In this template
- Four stages from source verification through a completed aliquot record.
- A labelled decision for source-sample identity and condition before preparation.
- A verification decision for label and volume alignment with the aliquot plan.
- A controlled hold and reconciliation route for source or labeling discrepancies.
- Editable roles for handling, review and laboratory coordination.
When to use this template
- You divide a source sample into containers for testing, storage, transfer or parallel work.
- You need to show how source identity and resulting aliquot labels remain traceable.
- You are documenting a controlled preparation process with an explicit correction path.
How it works
Define the aliquot plan
Add the method, destination, container types and record fields your team uses. Keep any quantity or handling limits in the approved local procedure.
Set source verification
Specify who verifies the source sample and what condition information must be checked before it is opened or divided.
Make reconciliation concrete
State how labels, resulting containers and the aliquot plan are compared, who can correct a mismatch and how the correction is recorded.
Walk a rework case
Test a normal aliquot and one that needs relabeling or a record correction. Add every real handoff before issuing the chart as a procedure.
Frequently asked questions
What is included in a sample aliquoting process?
The process verifies the source sample, prepares the containers and plan, checks that resulting labels and volumes align with that plan, then releases or reconciles the aliquots and records the outcome.
Why verify source identity before aliquoting?
Every resulting container inherits its relationship to the source sample. Confirming that relationship before preparation makes it easier to contain a discrepancy before it is multiplied across several aliquots.
What should happen when labels or volumes do not match the plan?
Stop the release of affected aliquots, preserve the source and records as needed, reconcile the difference through the authorized route and document the correction before the aliquot record is closed.