Standard Operating Procedure for In-Process Sampling Technique in API Manufacturing
Department | API Manufacturing |
---|---|
SOP No. | SOP/API/081/2025 |
Supersedes | SOP/API/081/2022 |
Page No. | Page 1 of 10 |
Issue Date | 13/04/2025 |
Effective Date | 15/04/2025 |
Review Date | 13/04/2026 |
1. Purpose
To outline a standardized technique for in-process sampling during API manufacturing that ensures representative sampling for critical quality attributes and compliance with cGMP and regulatory requirements.
2. Scope
This SOP applies to all in-process stages of API manufacturing where sampling is required for testing and verification, including reaction monitoring, drying, milling, blending, and sieving.
3. Responsibilities
- Production Operator: Perform sampling as instructed in
the Batch Manufacturing Record (BMR).
Production Supervisor: Verify sample labeling, integrity, and timely delivery to QA/QC.
QA Officer: Review sampling procedure and verify sample traceability during audits.
QC Analyst: Receive and test in-process samples and report deviations, if any.
4. Accountability
The Production Head is accountable for correct execution of sampling. QA Head is responsible for ensuring compliance and adequacy of sampling practices.
5. Procedure
5.1 Sampling Plan and Tools
- Refer to the Master Batch Record (MBR) or Control Strategy for the stage-wise sampling points and quantity.
- Use pre-cleaned stainless steel sampling scoops, thieves, syringes, or spatulas depending on material state (solid/liquid).
- Use sterile or clean containers and label them before initiating sampling.
5.2 Personal Preparation
- Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, mask, hairnet, and antistatic gown.
- Disinfect hands and sampling tools before use.
- Verify environmental conditions (e.g., area cleanliness, temperature/humidity) are within acceptable limits.
5.3 Sampling Technique
- Open the vessel/container under LAF or in a controlled environment as per product requirement.
- Withdraw the sample from designated locations (e.g., top, middle, bottom, or composite zones) to ensure representativeness.
- Avoid contaminating the sample or container during transfer.
- Immediately close the vessel/container after sampling and wipe external surface if any spillage occurred.
- Transfer the sample to the designated container, close with secure lid, and apply label.
5.4 Sample Labeling
- Ensure the following information is printed or written on the label:
- Product Name
- Batch Number
- Stage of Sampling (e.g., Post-Drying, Pre-Milling)
- Sample Type: In-Process
- Sampled By (Name & Signature)
- Sampling Date & Time
5.5 Sample Submission and Documentation
- Submit the sample to the QC lab immediately upon collection.
- Enter details in the “In-Process Sampling Logbook” (Annexure-1).
- Attach the sample slip and BMR reference with the submitted sample.
- QC shall acknowledge sample receipt and log it in the laboratory register.
5.6 Special Considerations
- If material is hazardous, cytotoxic, or potent:
- Follow containment procedures using isolators or dedicated enclosures.
- Use closed loop sampling devices, if applicable.
- Ensure sample containers are double-bagged before dispatch.
6. Abbreviations
- SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
- QA: Quality Assurance
- QC: Quality Control
- BMR: Batch Manufacturing Record
- PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
7. Documents
- In-Process Sampling Logbook (Annexure-1)
- Batch Manufacturing Record
- Sample Submission Slip
8. References
- ICH Q8 – Pharmaceutical Development
- 21 CFR Part 211 – US FDA GMP Regulations
- WHO Technical Report Series 986 – GMP for APIs
9. SOP Version
Version: 2.0
10. Approval Section
Prepared By | Checked By | Approved By | |
---|---|---|---|
Signature | |||
Date | |||
Name | |||
Designation | |||
Department |
11. Annexures
Annexure-1: In-Process Sampling Logbook
Date | Batch No. | Sampling Stage | Sampled By | Time | Submitted To QC | Remarks |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
13/04/2025 | API-20250413 | Post-Drying | 10:15 | Yes | Sample sent for LOD |
Revision History:
Revision Date | Revision No. | Details | Reason | Approved By |
---|---|---|---|---|
01/01/2022 | 1.0 | Initial SOP Release | New Sampling Process | QA Head |
13/04/2025 | 2.0 | Included special handling for potent materials | Regulatory Requirement | QA Head |