What distinguishes a live SOP from a draft SOP?

• A. A draft SOP is approved and in use.
• B. A live SOP is approved, current, and in use.
• C. A live SOP has expired.
• D. A live SOP is interchangeable with other procedures.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that a live SOP is the approved, current version that is actually used in operations. Once an SOP is approved, it becomes the official reference, kept up-to-date, and staff follow it in day-to-day tasks. It’s the version in the system, used for training and audits, and it supersedes any earlier drafts.

A draft SOP, in contrast, is still under development or review. It hasn’t been approved and isn’t the one people should follow in practice; it’s meant for feedback and refinement before it becomes live.

So the distinction isn’t about expiration or being interchangeable with other procedures; it’s about approval status and actual usage: live equals approved, current, and in use.