SOP
Pronunciation: ess-oh-pee
Also written as: SOP — Standard Operating Procedure
Acronym for Standard Operating Procedure; a documented, step-by-step instruction set governing a laboratory process to ensure consistency and compliance.
Full Definition
A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is a formal written document that specifies the exact steps, reagents, equipment, safety precautions, and quality controls required to perform a specific laboratory procedure. SOPs are mandatory in accredited clinical laboratories under frameworks such as ISO 15189, CAP, and CLIA regulations. They serve as the authoritative reference for training, audits, and deviation investigations. Editors reviewing laboratory documents should verify that SOPs are cross-referenced by their unique identification codes and version numbers, and that the correct acronym form 'SOP' (not 'S.O.P.' or 'sop') is used throughout.
Usage
Usage note: Render as 'SOP' in all caps. Distinguish from 'policy' (a directional statement) and 'guideline' (advisory document). In accredited laboratories, SOPs are mandatory, version-controlled documents.
In Context
- "All centrifugation steps must be performed in accordance with SOP-LAB-042, version 3.1, effective from 1 March 2024." — Laboratory quality management document
- "The auditor noted that three staff members had not signed the updated SOP, constituting a compliance gap." — Laboratory accreditation audit report