ATAG discussed Proposal 19-001 which is a proposal to specify the location of a 2-D symbol on an ISBT 128 base label (if a 2-D symbol is used). The proposal suggests that the 2-D symbol be printed in the upper right quadrant of the 100mm x 106mm base label. The group agreed that an ICCBBA-defined compound messages be used in the 2-D symbol.  

The group reviewed Proposal 19-002 which proposes a new data structure that allows users to encode the Product Description Codes (PDCs) of the constituent elements of a combination product. This is particularly needed for regenerative medicine products (e.g., regenerated trachea) where various constituent elements such as cells and scaffolds are combined and some of them might already be identified by a PDC. This allows end-users to know the greater detail provided by the PDC of the individual elements.

The group discussed promoting the use of ISBT 128 identifiers in Electronic Health Records for the purpose of recording MPHO traceability information. The goal is to develop a standard XML message that provides information about an MPHO product and allow for the electronic transfer of the information between blood centers and hospitals.

ATAG recently formed the IG-002 US Consensus Standard Subcommittee to work on proposed updates and guidance for the next version of the US Consensus Standard for Blood (IG-002) scheduled to be published in 2021.

The US Platelet Labeling Subcommittee was formed to develop a solution for platelet labeling and coding that would comply with the new 2019 FDA Guidance – Bacterial Risk Control Strategies for Blood Collection Facilities and Transfusion Services to Enhance the Safety and Availability of Platelets for Transfusion.