Records retention — social work (Ontario)
Store and preserve each client record securely for at least 10 years from the date of the LAST ENTRY or, if the client was under 18 at that date, at least 10 years from the day they turned (or would have turned) 18. Retain longer where required by law or an employer’s policy, and retain longer on reasonable judgment where future access may be needed — the Standard names minors, sexual abuse, and current or future litigation. Dispose only after the period elapses, and in a way that does not compromise confidentiality. On ceasing practice, either keep maintaining the records or transfer them to another registrant or regulated professional who first agrees in writing to comply with Principle IV.
“4.2.2 College registrants shall ensure that each client record is stored and preserved in a secure location for at least ten years from the date of the last entry or, if the client was less than eighteen years of age at the date of the last entry, at least ten years from the day the client became or would have become eighteen.” — OCSWSSW, Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, Principle IV, Interpretation 4.2.2 (effective 2023-09-08)