The appraisal and disposal of records has a central place in the records management program of all public offices.  Every public office needs to know how long to keep the records of its business. The purpose of this standard is to set benchmarks and to guide public offices in conducting appraisal and disposal processes, including the development of records retention and disposal authorities and the implementation of these authorities in the public office.  The standard sets out five principles for conducting appraisal and disposal processes.  Each principle is explained and followed by minimum compliance requirements.  Sources of further guidance and a list of compliance requirements are also provided.

This standard has been replaced by Standard No. 12 Standard on records management.