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of date before use. This process is known as "just-in-time supply." The Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA) employs this system and can offer some best practices to aid both logistics management and stock flow. Tracking Systems When tracking supplies, using an electronic inventory management system enhances the ability to see what supplies are used most and how much money is spent in each indi - vidual category (e.g., oxygen, medical equip- ment, medical supplies and medications). Such systems can be either bar code read- er-based or radio frequency identification (RFID) systems. RAA employs a bar code system that reads directly into a central database that identifies stock usage against EMSWORLD.com | OCTOBER 2015 25 For More Information Circle 20 on Reader Service Card Best Practices for Stock Control Don't overorder: Track what's used most often and keep enough stock on the shelf for one week. This should provide enough time to place an order with your supplier and have items delivered. Only order relevant stock: Don't favor supplies or toys that are outside your EMS agency's scope of practice. Your OMD can recommend what supplies and equipment work best. Appoint a lead: Having one person in charge of ordering supplies avoids the potential for double orders or orders being missed. Implement checks and balances: Check supplies regularly. Complete a thorough walk-through of all supplies needed at least once a week, although we recommend doing it twice. Manage shelf stocking: When new supplies arrive, place them behind the old stock. This will rotate the stock that needs to be used before expiration. Stay oxygenated: Sending unused O 2 back in cylinders returned for refill is wasteful. Keep an eye on how often oxygen is being exchanged and set a standard for when it should be changed out. RAA uses 500 lbs. for the main oxygen and 700 lbs. for its portable oxygen. RAA is an inner- city system with relatively short transport times; rural system may want to allow for greater minimums.