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As technologies advance and the rules under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) tighten, more health care facilities are using document scanning solutions and electronic health records (EHRs) systems to ensure compliance and remain competitive. While it may seem simpler to continue using paper-based patient charts, it’s important to remember that practices have limited storage space and it only takes one disaster to wipe out irreplaceable patient information.

Films—such as x-rays and negatives—are sensitive to temperatures, relative humidity levels and water. X-rays have a base, or plastic backing, and emulsion. The emulsion toughens under light and makes the image more durable. Unlike true emulsions, those used for films are a suspension of solid particles in a gelatin solution. When a medical facility suffers water damage that affects films, x-ray restoration is critical to preserving valuable patient information.

In the face of cases like Arthur Andersen LLP v. the United States and United Corp. v. Tutu Park Ltd., it is imperative for legal firms to establish and follow a document retention policy. This type of policy outlines how a firm identifies, organizes, maintains, accesses, retains, and destroys paper and electronic documents in its everyday operations. Implementing such as policy not only enhances productivity but also ensures legislative and regulatory compliance.

Document management is one of the most critical parts of a legal practice’s operations. From a practical standpoint, establishing a system enables counselors and staff to locate client files and court documents quickly. Legally, it reduces the risk of losing or damaging records that can result in liability problems for the firm, especially when a loss negatively affects a case. Creating and following record management policies and procedures regarding the organization, retention, and destruction of physical and electronic files reduces a firm’s liability and improves its short- and long-term productivity.

Much attention goes to the proper storage environment for raw foods, such as meat and vegetables. Baking ingredients have a shelf life, too, as well as the potential to spoil and not work as effectively when storage conditions are not ideal. By practicing proper humidity control for baked goods and following storage recommendations, you’ll maximize the shelf life of ingredients, reduce waste and ensure the quality of manufactured products.