>Dorris,
>Yes we are using this code inside every field validation in the database
>Hence, each time the validation is triggered, afields() would need to be called and an array created
>
>Sandy

If the code is used in a method, and the array name is not defined as 'public', it will be released when control is returned to the method (/procedure/function/whatever) is exited. Therefore, you will still only be creating ONE array. This is assuming that you have this portion of the code as a separate function.