RFID Chemical Inventory Tracking
Use of RFID for Chemical Inventory at Berkeley Lab
Video Overview of Transition to RFID
This video explains the Lab's transition to use of RFID for chemical inventory. You can jump to any of these topics using the "chapters" button on the right side of the video play-bar.
Overview of RFID technology
Update on the transition to RFID
Benefits to using RFID
Things that affect accuracy
You can also view the video in a separate window
RFID Implementation Overview
The Lab has transitioned to RFID inventory tracking for safer and more efficient chemical inventory management.
A site-wide effort was completed in 2022 to transition hazardous chemical containers to RFID
Containers in the chemical management system (CMS) that still do not have RFID tags will be searched for during a site-wide reconciliation effort in 2023 to ensure an accurate chemical inventory
Affix RFID tag only to any new containers. Be familiar with tagging guidance if you apply RFID tags. It's very important that they are applied properly, and an appropriate RFID tag type is used, to ensure good adhesion and performance.
CMS barcodes have been phased out
RFID tagging on newly received chemical containers is performed at the Central Chemical Receiving Facility to save researcher time and improve inventory accuracy
Check containers received for RFID tags
A responsible individual must RFID tag any containers that require tracking in CMS that are not already tagged when received
CMS may also require updating, such as "receiving" chemicals to change their status to active, or entering chemicals directly (e.g. samples, collaborations, etc.)
Benefits of RFID Tracking:
Significantly reduces the time for doing reconciliation compared to barcode scanning, especially for chemicals in gloveboxes, desiccators, and fridges
Labs can perform reconciliations more often to improve accuracy (reconciliation app being developed for site-wide rollout in Summer 2023)
Easier to locate containers using the RF signal - See how it works!
Types of RFID Tags
The Lab currently uses two primary types of RFID tags, "flat" tags and "flag" tags
NEW! Flat tags are the primary tags used, available starting in 2023
Flag tags are recommended for on-metal (cylinders, flam-cabinet multi-inventory sheets, etc.) and for small containers
Freezer tags will be available in early 2023, recommended for use in -20 C and below storage temperatures
RFID Resources
How to set up static RFID tag / multi-inventory datasheet inventory management
RFID "Flag Tag" Step-by-Step Instructions
RFID Inventory Reconciliation Guide (Coming Summer 2023!)
Request to Borrow an RFID Reader (Coming Summer 2023!)
