When a Standard Operating Procedure has been revised, what should be done with the older copy?

When a Standard Operating Procedure has been revised, what should be done with the older copy?

• A. It should be removed from the active set of SOPs.
• B. It should be appended to the newer version.
• C. It should be stored alongside the current SOP version.
• D. It should be marked with the updated changes, initialed by a manager, and used as is.

Answer: (A)

When an SOP is revised, only the current version should be in use in daily operations. Removing the older copy from the active SOP library prevents staff from following outdated steps and ensures everyone is guided by the latest, approved procedures. This supports consistent practices, proper training, and regulatory compliance. The superseded version should be kept in an archive or records system for reference and traceability, but not circulated as an active SOP.

When an SOP is revised, only the current version should be in use in daily operations. Removing the older copy from the active SOP library prevents staff from following outdated steps and ensures everyone is guided by the latest, approved procedures. This supports consistent practices, proper training, and regulatory compliance. The superseded version should be kept in an archive or records system for reference and traceability, but not circulated as an active SOP.