Batch numbers vs. Serial numbers

[CajunCAD]

Does anyone know where I can find some literature on the web describing the proper use of batch numbers & serial numbers?

I need to make certain I understand these so that I can train others. Right now everyone seems to have their own idea.

Thanks,
Louis

 

[Rjeffery]

I can point to no reference but I use the following definitions:

Batch: - A manufactured product that can not be broken down into useful items (i.e. crushed stone, paint solvent, concrete or blue metal flake enamel paint) that can be identified as to location and date of manufacture.

Lot: - A group of items manufactured from the same batch of material. (These items may or may not have serial numbers.) For example, ASTM A325 nuts, reinforcing steel, LAN card or railroad car wheel. The lot number should be able allow you to trace back the group of items to a manufacturer, material supplier(s), date of production etc.

Serial Number: - This is a way to identify a single part, assembly or unit, much like the VIN on an automobile. The serial number is generaly used to record the purchaser, gripes, repair cycle and service life as well as many other things. It should also act like the lot number where the item can be traced back to materials and manufactures.

Hope that helps

 

[HamishMcTavish]

On a slightly different tack, make sure that if you are using serial numbers you have a good reason to. Generally companies apply this sort of numbering to products which require traceability back to material and or component levels. This places a fairly stringent record keeping burden on your company. I would carefully consider why/if you need serial numbers as it affects many different areas e.g.
1) Will you need to modify your certificates of conformity?
2) Usually you will need to specify the need for tracability during the purchasing stage (which will place some of the burden on your supply chain but will generally cost more...)
3) You will need to implement some form of procedure/policy for record keeping (what information, how long is it kept for and under what conditions)

Is your need for serial numbers driven by regulatory requirements or something else? If the former then most regulators provide some guidance on the standards that they expect.

Regards. No more things should be presumed to exist than are absolutely necessary - William of Occam