Merging product entries

Who is this article for?
Administrators who want to learn to merge product entries.
Administrator permissions are required.

If duplicate product entries exist in your catalog, you can merge them to maintain data consistency and prevent errors.

1. Merging duplicate entries

To merge duplicate product entries, follow these steps:

Locate the duplicate entry in your catalog.
Click the + Merge icon.
Enter the Profile ID of the target product that the duplicate should merge into.
Confirm the merge to consolidate associated data, containers, and audit history.

Tip: Always confirm both products link to the same Chemical Profile before merging to prevent data loss.

Merging product entries provides several administrative advantages:

Benefit	Description
Data Consistency	Ensures all users select from vetted catalog entries, reducing data entry errors.
Compliance Control	Automatically links hazard and regulatory data to every product record.
Risk Mitigation	Restricts access to sensitive materials and sends alerts when thresholds are exceeded.
Scalability	Supports specialised attributes for different industries, including biotech and pharmaceuticals.

To maintain an effective product catalog, consider these recommendations:

Standardise naming conventions – Use the format Chemical Name – Manufacturer – Catalog # (for example, Acetone – Fisher Scientific – A949)
Keep catalog entries current – Archive discontinued products to prevent new use whilst retaining history
Validate the Profile link – Always link to the correct Chemical Profile to ensure hazard and SDS data populate accurately
Use the Restricted flag strategically – Apply it to controlled substances, DEA-listed materials, or regulated carcinogens
Run quarterly catalog reviews – Check for duplicates, inactive suppliers, or outdated package sizes
Communicate catalog changes – Notify users when entries are updated, merged, or discontinued to maintain clarity across departments