What is the purpose of a distribution list in an SOP?

• A. To track who is allowed to edit the SOP
• B. To appoint an owner
• C. To list all suppliers
• D. To identify personnel who should receive the SOP and changes

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is making sure the right people are informed about the SOP and any updates. A distribution list targets who should receive the document and its changes, so everyone involved knows the current version and stays compliant, trained, and able to follow the procedure. It supports accountability and traceability by delivering the SOP to the appropriate roles or individuals.

The other aspects aren’t the purpose of the distribution list: editing permissions are about who can change the document, not who gets it; appointing an owner is about assigning responsibility, which is related but separate from who receives the SOP; and listing suppliers has nothing to do with distributing the procedure to internal readers.