Introduction of ISBT 128 2D DataMatrix and Delay to the removal of transition Codabar barcodes

We are writing to inform you of a change to the implementation timeframes for the changes to Lifeblood’s blood component label. The letter can be found here.

The introduction of ISBT128 2D DataMatrix to the current label will occur as planned on 30 November 2025, however, the removal of the Codabar transition label, initially planned for 30 November 2025, will be delayed until 31 March 2029. 

The delay in removing the Codabar transition label will enable prior implementation of a state-wide Electronic Medical Record (EMR) and Blood Bank Information System implementation by NSW Health and NSW Health Pathology. This will ensure that ISBT 128 barcodes are able to be scanned following implementation of integrated IT solutions. This delay also recognises that NSW Health Pathology is the largest pathology provider nationally and services many patients daily, and that the risk of patient harm associated with manual data entry that would otherwise be required needs to be mitigated. 

What do I need to know

• The ISBT 128 linear barcodes and eye-readable information appearing in the upper portion of the current label will remain, and a 2D DataMatrix will be added. The placement of the 2D DataMatrix on the label is still being finalised. 
• Facilities using Codabar barcodes transitioning to the ISBT 128 Labelling Standard or the 2D DataMatrix will be responsible for updating their Laboratory Information Systems and infrastructure, including barcode scanners. 
• The ISBT 128 2D DataMatrix is encoded with the same information contained in multiple linear barcodes. 
• Lifeblood will provide a sample of an updated ISBT 128 Blood Component Label with the 2D DataMatrix barcode to assist Health Providers with upgrades to IT systems and barcode scanners. 
• The ISBT 128 linear barcodes can still be used without utilising the 2D barcode. 
• The removal of the Codabar barcodes (bottom section) will mean the physical label will reduce in size to 100mm x 100mm. 
• The Codabar barcodes will no longer be available post 31 March 2029. 
• Technical information regarding the ISBT128 standard is available from the following resources. 

Resources

Detailed information about ISBT 128 is available via the ‘Australian Guidelines for the Labelling of Blood Components Using ISBT 128’ 
Technical information about ISBT 128 is available on the International Council for Commonality in Blood Banking Automation (ICCBBA) website
Information on changes to barcode symbology used on blood and blood products funded under the national arrangements is available via the National Blood Authority (NBA) ‘Labelling of blood and blood products’.

Background

ISBT 128 is a global standard for the identification, labelling and information transfer of Medical Products of Human Origin (MPHO). It aims to achieve international consistency in the information provided on MPHO labels through global registration of product codes through the International Council for Commonality in Blood Banking Automation (ICCBBA)

This is a global standard that provides us with a unique identifier for Australian blood components and prevents the duplication of donation identification numbers within a 100-year period worldwide.

Lifeblood introduced the ISBT 128 transition label, comprising the ISBT 128 linear barcodes and Codabar, on 18 November 2018. The transition label allowed facilities that had not yet implemented ISBT 128 capabilities to continue to manage inventory without disruption to supply of blood while they progressed transitioning to ISBT 128.

The ISBT 128 linear and 2D DataMatrix barcode labelling is best practice for the labelling of blood products. This technology will prepare us for the future and will give us more rapid scanning of blood components at the point of issue and receipt. The 2D DataMatrix as a single ISBT 128 barcode can carry the same information as encoded in multiple linear codes.

Should you have any queries regarding this change, please contact your local Transfusion Medicine Scientist.