Cancer Council NSW biobank processes, stores and despatches biological samples from cancer patients and controls in large epidemiological studies. As a result of ISO accreditation, we now offer a blood processing and storage service for researchers external to Cancer Council NSW.

1. Cancer Council NSW
Biobank - ISO:9001:2008
Accreditation
Verity Hodgkinson and Freddy Sitas. Cancer Research Division, Cancer Council NSW
Background
Cancer Council NSW biobank processes, stores and
despatches biological samples from cancer patients and
controls in large epidemiological studies. Currently, we
have biological samples from 28,000 people in storage.
A breakdown of aliquots per study, currently held by the
biobank, can be seen in Table 1. Samples are linked to
comprehensive self-reported questionnaire data covering
lifestyle, demographic and health related information.
Aims
Our aims were to improve quality in the biobank ensuring
that international best practice is followed through
the development and implementation of a quality
management system (QMS) and, achieve ISO 9001:2008
accreditation. The decision to pursue ISO accreditation
was influenced by the experience of biobanks overseas
and the positive contribution that accreditation made
towards achievement of government contracts, improving
the quality of biospecimens available for research, best
practice in biobanking, enhancing interoperability between
biobanks and lack of an internationally recognised
biobank specific accreditation option.
Methods
QMS implementation involves a comprehensive review
of documentation and systems and closure of identified
gaps. The two step formal accreditation process
follows system implementation and is conducted by
an accredited external reviewer. The first step includes
an audit of documents to ensure compliance with ISO
standards. The second step involves an observational
audit of operations to ensure that the documented
procedures are followed. Accreditation follows if these
standards are met.
Results
The process of accreditation has significant benefits for
staff engagement, consumer confidence, standardisation
and continuous improvement of processes, ultimately
ensuring use of high quality biospecimens and better
research outcomes.
Conclusions
As a result of ISO accreditation, we now offer a blood
processing and storage service for researchers external
to Cancer Council NSW. Triennial accreditation will ensure
that these benefits continue into the future.
For further information please contact Verity Hodgkinson,
Program Manager, Biobanking, at verityh@nswcc.org.au
Table 1: Inventory of aliquots currently held by Cancer Council
NSW Biobank for public health research
Aliquot type (500ul)
Study Name
CLEAR Study*
Skin Health Study
Cervical Health Study
45 and Up Study*
CCNSW Biobank
Stability Study
Johannesburg Cancer
Case Control Study
Serum
Plasma
Buffy Coat
EDTA Red
Cells
45049
101402
18679
X
X
18779
10667
5335
15420
X
X
X
X
26776
10667
3425
6634
15405
2705
954
10424
X
X
X
X: sample type not collected; * open access resource