Hi everyone

We have recently had our computer updated at work.  Most of the data is on the server but there was some emails on the hard disk of a fairly sensitive nature which were confidential.  It is common practice to reformat the hard disk and then give the computer out for further use.  My concern is whether reformatting is sufficient to prevent information being retrieved from the disk by a hacker or very experienced person in IT.  The advice from the PCT and the RCN is that reformatting is sufficient but the RCN suggested getting them to sign a form saying that this had been done and that it was impossible to retrieve info from the disk. 

I wondered if there was anything in writing to support the above so that in the unlikely event of confidential material being retrieved, I would have some justification for my actions.  How does everyone else dispose safely of their computers in this sort of situation?  I have read the RCN booklet "Confidentiality - a guidance for occupational health nurses" but there is nothing to cover this aspect.

Thank you in anticipation

Rosie Busfield