Properly label biological samples utilizing materials that will withstand long periods of storage and low temperatures such as freezer labels or permanent markers.
In addition to an up-to-date, accurate inventory or material management process for control and tracking of biological stocks laboratories must pay special attention on labeling those samples (vials, plates, dried stocks) in a manner that allow non-lab members to quickly identify the microorganism stored.
Material accountability procedures allow that dangerous biological materials and assets are not misplaced, misused or improperly disposed.