Member Question - Global Retention Periods for Technical Files and Samples

A member asked a question around retention periods for technical files and samples:

We are conducting a review of internal systems and procedures and wanted to get an idea of what time periods the industry is working to for retaining technical files, as well as final samples ideally as 2 separate questions.

The reason of asking is that there seems to be quite a lot of variance in time periods from region to region.

Prior experience would tell me that the standard 10 year retention period is used, which is a decision based on UK law.  However it would be good to see if anyone does anything differently, with an additional emphasis with retailers with international presence in different countries, e.g. USA, Canada, EU, Australia.

See the answers here.....

Hope the question makes sense, in summary:

• How long do you retain technical files for?
• How long do you hold on to production samples for?
• Do you vary retention periods based on the regions your business is based in or work to the longest period?