Standard Operating Procedure for Performing Risk-Based In-Process Controls
| Department | Creams |
|---|---|
| SOP No. | SOP/CRM/178/2025 |
| Supersedes | SOP/CRM/178/2022 |
| Page No. | Page 1 of 5 |
| Issue Date | 21/01/2026 |
| Effective Date | 26/01/2026 |
| Review Date | 21/01/2027 |
1. Purpose
The purpose of this SOP is to define the process for performing risk-based in-process controls during cream manufacturing. It ensures that critical process parameters are monitored and controlled based on risk assessment to maintain product quality and consistency.
2. Scope
This SOP applies to all in-process controls during the cream manufacturing process, including monitoring, adjusting, and documenting key parameters that influence product quality. It covers the identification of critical process parameters (CPPs) and the use of risk-based methods to ensure that production processes remain within acceptable limits.
3. Responsibilities
- Production Team: Responsible for following the risk-based control parameters as outlined in the BMR and ensuring that in-process controls are performed during manufacturing. They must document the results in real-time.
- Quality Control (QC) Team: Responsible for verifying the in-process controls and ensuring that the monitoring activities are performed according to the risk-based approach. QC will also verify the effectiveness of control measures.
- Quality Assurance (QA) Team: Responsible for overseeing the risk-based control system
4. Accountability
The Production Manager is accountable for ensuring that risk-based in-process controls are performed during the manufacturing process. The QA Manager is responsible for overseeing the risk management process and ensuring compliance with all relevant procedures. The QC Manager is accountable for the accuracy and completeness of in-process control records.
5. Procedure
5.1 Risk Assessment for In-Process Controls
- Before the start of production, identify critical process parameters (CPPs) based on a risk assessment of the manufacturing process. CPPs include parameters that have the highest impact on the quality, safety, and efficacy of the cream product.
- Perform a risk-based analysis to determine which parameters need to be monitored during production. This analysis should be based on factors such as product characteristics, raw material variability, and process complexities.
- Document the identified CPPs and corresponding in-process control limits in the Batch Manufacturing Record (BMR) and ensure that the team is trained on these parameters.
- Risk assessments should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain relevant and up-to-date with any process or product changes.
5.2 Performing In-Process Control Monitoring
- During production, continuously monitor and document the identified CPPs at specified intervals (e.g., temperature, pH, viscosity, etc.) as per the BMR instructions.
- Use automated or manual systems to track the process parameters, ensuring that the readings are within the defined acceptable limits. If the parameters go beyond the acceptable range, stop the process immediately and take corrective actions.
- For each parameter, ensure that the monitoring equipment is calibrated and functioning properly. Calibration should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and GMP guidelines.
- Verify that any adjustments made to the process parameters are documented, including the reason for the adjustment and the corrective actions taken.
5.3 Handling Deviations from In-Process Control Limits
- If an in-process control deviation occurs, stop the process immediately and investigate the cause. Deviations could include out-of-range pH levels, temperature fluctuations, or incorrect ingredient ratios.
- Identify the root cause of the deviation and perform corrective actions. Corrective actions may include adjusting process parameters, recalibrating equipment, or reprocessing raw materials.
- Once the issue is resolved, resume production and continue to monitor the parameters to ensure they remain within the acceptable range.
- Document all deviations, corrective actions, and rework in the Deviation Report (Annexure-1) and ensure that the report is reviewed by the QA team.
5.4 Post-Production Activities
- Once the production run is complete, review the in-process control records and verify that all CPPs were monitored, documented, and maintained within specified limits.
- Ensure that all in-process control data is reviewed and approved by the QC team. The data should be stored in the batch record for future reference and audits.
- If no deviations were recorded, approve the batch for the next stage (e.g., packaging, labeling). If deviations were recorded, review the corrective actions taken and verify that the product meets quality standards before moving forward.
5.5 Documentation and Record-Keeping
- Document all in-process control activities in the Batch Manufacturing Record (BMR) and ensure that each parameter is logged correctly. The documentation should include time, operator details, and values observed for each critical parameter.
- Record any deviations, corrective actions, and investigations in the Deviation Report (Annexure-1). This ensures that all issues are properly documented and addressed.
- Ensure that all records are reviewed by the QC team for accuracy and completeness. Store all documentation for the required retention period (typically two years or as specified by local regulations).
6. Abbreviations
- GMP: Good Manufacturing Practices
- QC: Quality Control
- QA: Quality Assurance
- CPP: Critical Process Parameter
- BMR: Batch Manufacturing Record
- PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
7. Documents
- Annexure-1: Deviation Report
- Annexure-2: In-Process Control Log
8. References
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Guidelines – 21 CFR Part 211
- International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) Q7 – Good Manufacturing Practice for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
- FDA Guidance for Industry: Process Control and Risk-Based Approaches in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
9. SOP Version
Version: 2.0
10. Approval Section
| Prepared By | Checked By | Approved By | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signature | |||
| Date | |||
| Name | |||
| Designation | |||
| Department |
11. Annexures
Annexure-1: Deviation Report
| Batch Number | Deviation Description | Corrective Action | Resolved By |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12345 | Temperature exceeded specified limit | Adjusted heating temperature, resumed production | |
| 12345 | Temperature exceeded specified limit | Adjusted heating temperature, resumed production | Michael Lee |
Annexure-2: In-Process Control Log
| Batch Number | Time | Parameter | Measured Value | Operator | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12345 | 09:00 AM | pH | 5.2 | John Doe | Within specification |
| 12345 | 09:30 AM | Viscosity | 1200 cP | Jane Smith | Within specification |
| 12345 | 10:00 AM | Temperature | 80°C | Michael Lee | Above specification, corrective action taken |
Revision History:
| Revision Date | Revision No. | Revision Details | Reason for Revision | Approved By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/03/2024 | 1.0 | Initial Version | New SOP Creation | QA Head |
| 01/03/2025 | 2.0 | Format Revision and Updates | Standardization of Document | QA Head |