Standard Operating Procedure for Sample Tracking and Documentation in Analytical Method Development
| Department | Analytical Method Development |
|---|---|
| SOP No. | SOP/AMD/335/2025 |
| Supersedes | SOP/AMD/335/2022 |
| 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 a standard method for tracking all analytical samples received, processed, and reported within the Analytical Method Development (AMD) department. This ensures proper traceability,
accountability, and regulatory compliance.
2. Scope
This SOP applies to all research, validation, and stability samples processed in the AMD department, including samples for method development, method transfer, and method verification exercises.
3. Responsibilities
- Analytical Chemists: Ensure proper labeling, logging, and storage of samples.
- Documentation Officer: Maintain electronic and physical records of sample movement.
- QA Department: Audit sample traceability and document control.
- AMD Head: Ensure effective implementation of the SOP and training of personnel.
4. Accountability
The AMD Head is accountable for ensuring that all samples are properly tracked and documented from receipt to disposal, including compliance with data integrity standards.
5. Procedure
5.1 Sample Receipt
- Upon receipt, inspect the sample condition and quantity against accompanying documents (e.g., sample request form).
- Assign a unique Sample ID using the format: AMD-YY-XXX (e.g., AMD-25-045).
- Record the sample in the Sample Receipt Logbook (Annexure-1) and in the LIMS if available.
- Label the sample container with the assigned Sample ID using a waterproof label.
5.2 Sample Logging and Allocation
- Log the sample details in the Sample Movement Register (Annexure-2), indicating assigned analyst and test plan.
- Include relevant metadata: date received, test type, batch number, storage condition, and reference document.
- Allocate sample portions for multiple testing parameters, if required (e.g., Assay, Dissolution, Impurity).
5.3 Sample Storage and Segregation
- Store samples in designated racks or refrigerators/freezers based on storage conditions mentioned in the protocol.
- Maintain segregation of stability samples, development samples, and validation samples using color-coded labels.
5.4 Sample Processing
- Update the Sample Movement Register after each stage of processing (e.g., weighing, dilution, testing).
- Link raw data (chromatograms, balance logs) to Sample ID for traceability.
5.5 Sample Disposal
- Dispose of samples post-analysis as per SOP/QA/042/2023 on Sample Disposal.
- Record the disposal date and method in the Sample Disposal Log (Annexure-3).
- QA to perform monthly reconciliation of received vs. disposed samples.
5.6 Audit Trail and Data Integrity
- All sample tracking activities must be logged with timestamps and initials.
- Maintain both soft and hard copies of all sample logs and link with analytical data sets.
- Use only validated LIMS or tracking software if digital records are maintained.
6. Abbreviations
- AMD: Analytical Method Development
- LIMS: Laboratory Information Management System
- QA: Quality Assurance
7. Documents
- Annexure-1: Sample Receipt Logbook
- Annexure-2: Sample Movement Register
- Annexure-3: Sample Disposal Log
8. References
- ICH Q9 – Quality Risk Management
- WHO TRS 1019 – Data Integrity Guidance
- 21 CFR Part 211 – Good Manufacturing Practice
9. SOP Version
Version: 2.0
10. Approval Section
| Prepared By | Checked By | Approved By | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signature | |||
| Date | |||
| Name | Devanshi Patel | Rajesh Sharma | Dr. Amit Trivedi |
| Designation | Analytical Chemist | QA Officer | Head – AMD |
| Department | Analytical Method Development | Quality Assurance | Analytical Method Development |
11. Annexures
Annexure-1: Sample Receipt Logbook
| Sample ID | Date | Product Name | Batch No. | Received By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMD-25-045 | 01/06/2025 | Ibuprofen 200mg | IBF2025B12 | Devanshi Patel |
Annexure-2: Sample Movement Register
| Sample ID | Analyst | Activity | Date | Signature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMD-25-045 | Devanshi Patel | Weighing | 02/06/2025 | DP |
Annexure-3: Sample Disposal Log
| Sample ID | Disposal Method | Date | Disposed By |
|---|---|---|---|
| AMD-25-045 | Incineration | 05/06/2025 | QA Officer |
Revision History:
| Revision Date | Revision No. | Details | Reason | Approved By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/06/2025 | 2.0 | Integrated LIMS tracking and digital log references | Periodic review | Dr. Amit Trivedi |
| 11/05/2022 | 1.0 | Initial issue | New SOP | QA Head |