When confidential information reaches the end of its retention period, disposing of it securely is just as important as storing it safely.
For organisations handling sensitive information, simply placing documents into a standard recycling bin is rarely sufficient. Businesses have a responsibility to ensure confidential material is destroyed in a secure and controlled manner.
One of the key standards governing secure destruction in the UK is BS EN 15713.
What Is BS EN 15713?
BS EN 15713 is the European standard for the secure destruction of confidential material.
It sets out best practice for the entire destruction process, covering areas such as:
- Collection and handling of confidential material.
- Secure transportation.
- Access controls and security procedures.
- Staff screening and training.
- Chain of custody.
- Final destruction and recycling.
The standard is designed to ensure sensitive information remains protected right up until the point it is completely destroyed. At L&R Storage, confidential material is handled in accordance with BS EN 15713 throughout the destruction process.
Why Is Secure Destruction Important?
Many organisations hold information that could cause significant damage if it fell into the wrong hands.
Examples include:
- Client files.
- Personnel records.
- Financial documents.
- Medical information.
- Legal documents.
- Business contracts.
Improper disposal can expose organisations to data breaches, reputational damage and potential regulatory action.
Secure destruction helps ensure information is disposed of responsibly and compliantly.
Who Needs BS EN 15713-Compliant Shredding?
Secure destruction is important for organisations across all sectors, including:
Legal Practices
Solicitors often hold confidential client information and closed files containing highly sensitive data.
Healthcare Organisations
Medical records and patient information require careful handling throughout their lifecycle.
Schools and Educational Establishments
Personnel records, safeguarding documentation and pupil information all contain sensitive personal data.
Businesses of All Sizes
From invoices and payroll records to contracts and correspondence, most organisations generate confidential paperwork that eventually needs to be destroyed.
The Importance of the Chain of Custody
Secure destruction is about far more than simply feeding paper into a shredder.
The entire journey of the material should be protected, including:
- Collection from the customer.
- Secure transportation.
- Controlled handling procedures.
- Final destruction.
- Recycling of shredded material.
Maintaining a clear chain of custody provides confidence that confidential information has remained secure throughout the process.
What Happens After Documents Are Destroyed?
Once confidential material has been securely destroyed, the resulting paper can be recycled and used to create new products, helping organisations support their environmental objectives while protecting sensitive information.
Managing the Full Lifecycle of Your Records
Many businesses need a combination of document storage, scanning and secure destruction.
Records may need to be:
- Stored securely for several years.
- Retrieved when required.
- Scanned into digital formats.
- Destroyed once retention periods have expired.
Having a clear records management strategy helps ensure information is retained only for as long as necessary and disposed of securely when the time comes.
Related Services
Secure Document Storage
Store archive boxes safely in our secure UK facilities, with fast retrieval when you need access to your records.
Document Scanning Services
Convert paper records into searchable digital files while reducing the amount of physical storage required.
Confidential Shredding
Dispose of documents securely and compliantly once retention periods have expired.
Wills & Deeds Storage
Specialist storage for original legal documents, deeds and wills.
Not sure whether your records should be stored, scanned or securely destroyed?
L&R Storage works with legal firms, healthcare organisations, schools and businesses across the UK to help manage records throughout their lifecycle. Contact our team to discuss your requirements.