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Re: Stamping Documents with ‘For Reference Only’
There are no loopholes for document control, including calling something a "reference document." All documents are for reference purposes - we refer to them for information. The ISO 9000, 14001, 18001, 13485 standards require all management system documents both internally and externally originated to be controlled so that everyone knows the status of the information they are looking it - current or obsolete.
Marking something "Reference Only," or even "obsolete" does not exempt it from the standard's document control requirements. If you are concerned about difficulties controlling all your documents, look at the complexity of your control methods. It is easy to create your own pitfalls and red tape by playing document control games. The standard has very simple requirements for demonstrating any document is controlled: an identifier (name, number, or combination) and a revision level. Any other markings are above and beyond the standard requirements for demonstrating control and add only complexity without increasing control. It is also helpful to remember that it is the responsibility of the document user to verify the document is current prior to use.
There are no loopholes for document control, including calling something a "reference document." All documents are for reference purposes - we refer to them for information. The ISO 9000, 14001, 18001, 13485 standards require all management system documents both internally and externally originated to be controlled so that everyone knows the status of the information they are looking it - current or obsolete.
Marking something "Reference Only," or even "obsolete" does not exempt it from the standard's document control requirements. If you are concerned about difficulties controlling all your documents, look at the complexity of your control methods. It is easy to create your own pitfalls and red tape by playing document control games. The standard has very simple requirements for demonstrating any document is controlled: an identifier (name, number, or combination) and a revision level. Any other markings are above and beyond the standard requirements for demonstrating control and add only complexity without increasing control. It is also helpful to remember that it is the responsibility of the document user to verify the document is current prior to use.



