Practice tool
Source and Version Register
Version 1.0 · Tool & checklist
Keep legal adoption, publisher editions, dates and source checks in separate fields.
Define the register
Use one entry for each controlling document or separately adopted provision. Keep a linked relationship where a regulation incorporates an external standard. The register records source status; it does not itself decide that a provision applies to every product.
Working record
| Register field | Entry required | Review question |
|---|---|---|
| Requirement identifier | Internal reference and product scope | Can users connect it to the product? |
| Issuing source | Agency or authorized publisher | Is this the original source? |
| Document type | Regulation, standard, guidance or program | What gives it authority? |
| Citation | CFR provision or publication designation | Is the reference precise? |
| Controlling edition | Adopted or contractually invoked version | What establishes this edition? |
| Publisher edition | Current publisher revision if relevant | Is it different from the controlling text? |
| Publication date | Date identified by the publication | What does this date mean? |
| Effective or compliance date | Date and applicable trigger | Which products and activities are affected? |
| Checked date | Date the source was examined | Who completed the source check? |
| Change assessment | Affected provisions and evidence | Does the technical baseline change? |
| Approval and history | Decision, owner and previous version | Can an earlier delivery be reconstructed? |
Check the dates
Do not copy a website footer date into the effective-date field. Read final rule and transition information where relevant. If a publisher issues a new edition, preserve the adopted edition until the applicable legal or contractual change is established.
Review a revision
Identify changes to scope, methods, limits, labeling and records. Assign affected products and supporting reports. Record whether additional analysis, testing or authorization is needed before changing the working baseline.
Retain the history
Keep superseded references associated with earlier technical and supply records. Make the active version easy to find. Read Managing Standards Editions and Effective Dates.