The 19th edition of this volume contains changes from the previous edition that reflect new requirements, incorporation of a quality management system, and input from a variety of sources. These sources include public members on the Standards Committee, and recognized experts in blood banking and transfusion medicine (members and non-members). As in the past, the Standards Committee deliberated at length and revised sections using an evidence-based decision-making process. The Committee endeavoured to make the requirements simple, clear and practical. The use of these standards should aid materially in developing and maintaining procedures that will provide safe and effective transfusion and transplantation, as well as a safe work environment for blood bank and transfusion service personnel.