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API Manufacturing: SOP for In-Process Sampling Technique – V 2.0

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API Manufacturing: SOP for In-Process Sampling Technique – V 2.0

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

    1. Refer to the Master Batch Record (MBR) or Control Strategy for the stage-wise sampling points and quantity.
    2. Use pre-cleaned stainless steel sampling scoops, thieves, syringes, or spatulas depending on material state (solid/liquid).
    3. Use sterile or clean containers and label them before initiating sampling.

    5.2 Personal Preparation

    1. Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, mask, hairnet, and antistatic gown.
    2. Disinfect hands and sampling tools before use.
    3. Verify environmental conditions (e.g., area cleanliness, temperature/humidity) are within acceptable limits.

    5.3 Sampling Technique

    1. Open the vessel/container under LAF or in a controlled environment as per product requirement.
    2. Withdraw the sample from designated locations (e.g., top, middle, bottom, or composite zones) to ensure representativeness.
    3. Avoid contaminating the sample or container during transfer.
    4. Immediately close the vessel/container after sampling and wipe external surface if any spillage occurred.
    5. Transfer the sample to the designated container, close with secure lid, and apply label.

    5.4 Sample Labeling

    1. 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

    1. Submit the sample to the QC lab immediately upon collection.
    2. Enter details in the “In-Process Sampling Logbook” (Annexure-1).
    3. Attach the sample slip and BMR reference with the submitted sample.
    4. QC shall acknowledge sample receipt and log it in the laboratory register.

    5.6 Special Considerations

    1. 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

    1. In-Process Sampling Logbook (Annexure-1)
    2. Batch Manufacturing Record
    3. 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
    See also  API Manufacturing: SOP for Sieve Integrity Verification - V 2.0
    API Manufacturing V 2.0 Tags:API batch record, API BMR, API calibration, API centrifuge, API cleaning, API crystallization, API deviation, API documentation, API drying, API equipment cleaning, API filtration, API GMP compliance, API granulation, API hold time, API impurities, API line clearance, API manufacturing, API process, API quality control, API reactor, API sampling, API solvent handling, API validation, API waste disposal, API yield

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    Standard Operating Procedures V 1.0

    • Aerosols
    • Analytical Method Development
    • Bioequivalence Bioavailability Study
    • Capsule Formulation
    • Clinical Studies
    • Creams
    • Data Integrity
    • Dental Dosage Forms
    • Drug Discovery
    • Environment, Health and Safety
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    • Gels
    • Good Distribution Practice
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    • Injectables
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    • Powder & Granules
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    • Quality Control
    • Raw Material Stores
    • Regulatory Affairs
    • Tablet Manufacturing
    • Rectal Dosage Forms
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    NEW! Revised SOPs – V 2.0

    • Aerosols V 2.0
    • Analytical Method Development V 2.0
    • API Manufacturing V 2.0
    • BA-BE Studies V 2.0
    • Biosimilars V 2.0
    • Capsules V 2.0
    • Creams V 2.0
    • Elixers V 2.0
    • Ointments V 2.0
    • Raw Material Warehouse V 2.0
    • Tablet Manufacturing V2.0

    New Publication: A must for All.

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