3 Unique Challenges of Reliable Lab Sample Labelling

Categorised in: Blog

In any laboratory setting, accurate and reliable labelling for your research project is key to success. Labels that are inaccurate or damaged can lead to all kinds of problems, including misidentification, contamination and ultimately, compromised research results. This is an incredibly frustrating situation for researchers due to the huge waste of time and resources.

This blog will outline some of the unique challenges of lab sample labelling and how we can help.

1. A Harsh Lab Environment

You will find many potentially damaging conditions in any laboratory, from harsh chemicals to extreme temperature or humidity levels. All of these can contribute to the failure of labels, such as peeling, fading, or dissolving. Unlabelled or illegible samples are the researcher’s worst nightmare!

2. Diverse Sample Storage Options

Various containers and conditions could be present to affect the effectiveness of your labelling system. Will the label stick to glass and plastic? Can it withstand a variety of storage conditions? Is the label robust enough to endure handling and transportation? These are all questions you should be asking of your labelling system.

3. Preserving the Integrity of Data

Customising your labelling for in-house use can make your sample unusable by other researchers. To ensure industry-wide best practices, the following data should be included, at a minimum:

• Each sample should have a number or other unique identifier like a barcode
• The label must be securely attached
• All information on the label must be clear and legible 
• The label must be durable under the conditions it will face
• A reliable tracking system should be in place to avoid misplacements

If any of this data is missing, the integrity of the data and the sample are compromised.

How Uniprint Global Can Help

We understand the challenges you face when it comes to lab sample labelling. We offer a range of solutions, including:

• High-quality labels designed to withstand harsh laboratory conditions.
• Custom-designed labels to meet the specifications of your individual applications and project requirements.
• Integration of barcoding and RFID technologies to ensure the best efficiency for your labelling solutions.

Consult with our team of experts for valuable guidance on selecting the most suitable labelling solutions for your lab’s specific requirements. Partner with Uniprint Global to overcome your unique lab sample labelling challenges.