How to Properly Dispose of Legacy Paper Records

Legacy records management is one of the most challenging parts of information management for any organization. Legacy records can be buried, commingled with important documents, and hard to find.

In some cases, organizations inherit records, which can make the process even more complicated. No matter what state the records system is in, it is important for organizations to take the proper steps to manage old paper records.

Here are a few tips on how to properly dispose of legacy paper records.

Identify Documents and Create a System

Proper disposal of legacy paper records can’t begin without first properly identifying documents for destruction. This can be time-consuming if you have no existing retention and records inventory system.

Once you have sorted through your legacy documents, create a future-proof system designed to automatically identify documents for destruction at the appropriate time.

A robust records system is the best way to ensure that your records are stored and disposed of properly and that you don’t become overrun with legacy records.

Ensure Compliance with Record Disposal Regulations

Most organizations must abide by some sort of document shredding standard when disposing of documents. These standards become particularly relevant in the healthcare industry or with businesses holding sensitive client information.

Even businesses that don’t handle sensitive data are still required to ensure that no client data leaves their facility intact. When you are ready to dispose of legacy documents, throwing them away in the trash or recycling simply won’t do.

The last thing you want is for client information to get into the wrong hands because you didn’t dispose of it properly. Aside from client information, some legacy paper records may include sensitive business information that should be destroyed rather than tossed in the trash.

To ensure that your paper records are properly disposed of, it’s best to get professional help.

Use a Professional Shredding Service

The best way to ensure that your legacy paper records are being disposed of properly, safely, and in accordance with state and federal laws is to use a professional shredding service. Professional services are not only secure, but they are convenient and fast.

Document destruction carts can be delivered to your location for convenient collection until you finish your sorting project. You can arrange for the document destruction to happen right on sight for maximum transparency. Alternatively, your records can be transported to a secured facility and destroyed offsite.

Trusting a professional service gives you total peace of mind that the information contained in your records will never get into the wrong hands. In addition, professional services are at the forefront of paper recycling, so you can feel good that you are getting rid of your documents in a sustainable way.

Trust SEAM with Your Legacy Paper Records Disposal Needs

SEAM specializes in shredding services and understands what is on the line regarding sensitive documents. We provide shredding services in South Dakota and North Dakota and can help your business properly dispose of all legacy paper records. Give us a call today to get started.