Standard Operating Procedure for Handling and Documentation of Raw Analytical Data in Analytical Method Development
| Department | Analytical Method Development |
|---|---|
| SOP No. | SOP/AMD/397/2025 |
| Supersedes | SOP/AMD/397/2022 |
| Page No. | Page 1 of 13 |
| Issue Date | 01/06/2025 |
| Effective Date | 03/06/2025 |
| Review Date | 01/06/2026 |
1. Purpose
The purpose of this SOP is to define the standardized procedure for the proper handling, documentation,
review, and archiving of raw analytical data generated during method development activities. It ensures traceability, transparency, and data integrity in compliance with ALCOA+ principles, GMP, and regulatory standards.
2. Scope
This SOP applies to all personnel involved in generating or reviewing raw analytical data within the Analytical Method Development (AMD) laboratory, including internal staff and contract resources. It covers both manually recorded and electronically generated data.
3. Responsibilities
- Analysts: Record all raw data promptly, clearly, and accurately during experimental work. Submit raw data for review without delay.
- Supervisors: Review and approve raw data, verify compliance with SOPs and protocols, and ensure data completeness.
- QA Personnel: Periodically audit raw data handling processes and provide compliance feedback to the AMD head.
4. Accountability
The Head of the AMD department is accountable for ensuring that raw data handling and documentation procedures are implemented consistently and effectively throughout the laboratory. The QA department is accountable for oversight and compliance monitoring.
5. Procedure
5.1 Definition of Raw Data
- Raw data includes original records and documentation resulting from analytical testing, including:
- Instrument printouts
- Chromatograms
- Spectra
- Balance printouts
- Calculation sheets
- Lab notebook entries
5.2 Recording of Raw Data
- All raw data must be recorded at the time of activity using indelible ink or in validated electronic systems.
- Each data entry must include the date, analyst’s initials, and instrument/equipment identification.
- Manual calculations must be legibly written and verified by a second individual.
5.3 Handling Electronic Raw Data
- Ensure data is saved in the designated secured server folder with appropriate naming conventions.
- Audit trails must remain enabled in all computerized systems used for data acquisition.
- No overwriting of data is permitted; any corrections must be documented separately with justification and approval.
5.4 Corrections and Annotations
- If a mistake is identified:
- Strike through with a single line, retain the original data
- Write corrected data nearby with initials, date, and justification
- Electronic data corrections must follow the same logic with audit trail justification.
5.5 Review and Verification
- Supervisors must review raw data within 5 working days of its generation.
- Review includes:
- Completeness of data sets
- Legibility of entries
- Verification of calculations
- Assessment of any deviations or unexpected observations
5.6 Archival of Raw Data
- Upon review, raw data must be signed, dated, and submitted to the Documentation Officer for archival.
- Data shall be stored in fire-proof cabinets (physical) or secure validated servers (electronic).
- Maintain an index of raw data with document number, analyst name, and storage location (Annexure-1).
5.7 Data Integrity Monitoring
- Periodic QA audits shall focus on:
- Completeness of raw data
- Legibility and attribution
- Compliance with ALCOA+ principles
6. Abbreviations
- AMD: Analytical Method Development
- ALCOA+: Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate + Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available
- QA: Quality Assurance
7. Documents
- Raw Data Index Log – Annexure-1
- Raw Data Checklist – Annexure-2
8. References
- 21 CFR Part 11 – Electronic Records and Electronic Signatures
- ICH Q9 – Quality Risk Management
- WHO TRS 996 Annex 5 – Good Data Management Practices
9. SOP Version
Version: 2.0
10. Approval Section
| Prepared By | Checked By | Approved By | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signature | |||
| Date | |||
| Name | Vaibhav Jaiswal | Neha Sinha | Dr. Harshita Goyal |
| Designation | AMD Analyst | QA Reviewer | Head – Analytical Method Development |
| Department | Analytical Method Development | Quality Assurance | Analytical Method Development |
11. Annexures
Annexure-1: Raw Data Index Log
| Data ID | Test Name | Analyst | Date | Storage Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RD-397-01 | Assay Method Development | Vaibhav Jaiswal | 24/05/2025 | Server/AMD/2025/Assay |
Annexure-2: Raw Data Review Checklist
| Checklist Item | Status | Reviewer Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| All pages signed and dated | Yes | Compliant |
| Audit trail intact for electronic data | Yes | No unauthorized changes |
| Calculations verified | Yes | Cross-checked |
Revision History:
| Revision Date | Revision No. | Details | Reason | Approved By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/06/2025 | 2.0 | Incorporated detailed guidance for electronic data handling | Regulatory alignment | Dr. Harshita Goyal |
| 10/05/2022 | 1.0 | Initial issue | New SOP | QA Head |