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7 Key Things To Look For In A Professional Shredding Service

When it comes to disposing of sensitive documents and confidential information, using a professional shredding service is often the best choice. Not only does it ensure secure document destruction, but it also saves businesses time and resources.

However, not all shredding services are created equal. Choosing the right one can be a tricky task, especially with so many options available in the market. To ensure you make an informed decision, here are some key things to look for in a professional shredding service:

Key #1 HIPAA, FACTA Requirements And Other Legal Regulations

One thing you want to make sure is whether the shredding service adheres to specific regulatory requirements such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA). HIPAA mandates rigorous protection of healthcare information to prevent unauthorized access and breaches, making it essential for shredding services dealing with medical records to comply with its standards.

Similarly, FACTA requires businesses to dispose of consumer information to combat identity theft properly, making compliance a non-negotiable requirement for any shredding service managing credit and personal data.

Ensuring that your shredding service adheres to these regulations guarantees that your sensitive documents are handled with the highest levels of security and confidentiality. Failure to comply with regulations like HIPAA and FACTA can lead to hefty fines. In 2021, data breaches cost companies an average of $4.24 million per incident. Proper document destruction through shredding helps businesses stay compliant.

Key #2 Secure Document Handling

Another crucial aspect to consider is the level of security provided by the shredding service. The purpose of shredding documents is to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. So, choosing a provider that offers secure document handling from start to finish, including transportation and disposal, is essential.

Key #3 Certificate Of Destruction

A reputable shredding service should also provide a certificate of destruction after each shred job. This document proves that your confidential information was properly destroyed and can be used for audit purposes or legal requirements.

Key #4 Options For On-Site Shredding

While off-site shredding may be a convenient option, on-site shredding offers an added layer of security. With on-site shredding, the shredding company brings a mobile shredder to your location and shreds the documents in your presence. This way, you can ensure that your sensitive information only leaves your premises once it has been fully destroyed.

Key #5 Flexible Shredding Options

Different businesses have different needs when it comes to document destruction. A professional shredding service should offer flexible options such as one-time purges, regularly scheduled services, or even drop-off services for smaller amounts of documents. Make sure to choose a provider that can accommodate your specific requirements.

Key #6 Environmentally Responsible Practices

Shredding and recycling paper documents can save trees and reduce landfill waste. The Environmental Protection Agency states that recycling one ton of paper can save 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water. When choosing a shredding service, look for one that has environmentally responsible practices and recycles all shredded materials.

Key #7 Customer Reviews And References

Finally, remember to research the shredding service’s reputation before making a decision. Look for customer reviews and references to get an idea of the service’s track record and level of customer satisfaction. A reliable shredding service should have positive feedback from previous clients.

By considering these key factors, you can ensure that you choose a professional shredding service that meets your business’s specific needs and provides secure and compliant document destruction. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and thoroughly research your options before deciding.

A1 DATASHRED is a professional shredding service that offers safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible document destruction services. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help protect your sensitive information.

July 17, 2024