Every company should evaluate or reevaluate their record retention and destruction policy for its particular industry/profession. A record destruction checklist is a good idea to help ensure that the policy is followed. Unfortunately, the improper destruction of business records has resulted become the issue in lawsuits. The following list may prove useful:
Records destruction checklist
- Are the records confidential?
- What is the quantity of records to be destroyed?
- How often will records destruction take place?
- What is the physical composition of the records?
- Do the records contain numerous fasteners, such as staples or paper clips?
- Are there restrictions on incineration or disposal in a landfill in your area?
- Do you have access to a vendor who provides bonded recycling?
- Do you have space and staff for an on-site destruction program?
- Can your equipment handle the bulk to be destroyed?
- Can your shredder handle non-paper records?
- Will you be able to contain the dust produced by a shredder?
- Is it more efficient and economical to use an outside vendor or facility?
A record destruction policy is important for most industries and professions. Failing to properly destroy business records can lead to identity theft, privacy suits by your customers, lawsuits for destroying evidence or destroying records before the law permits. Sandstrum Law helps companies with implementing meaningful record destruction policies as well as record retention policies. Good luck with moving your business forward.
