SOP Guide for Pharma

Packaging: SOP for Final Labeling and Batch Coding of Injectable Vials – V 2.0

Packaging: SOP for Final Labeling and Batch Coding of Injectable Vials – V 2.0

Standard Operating Procedure for Final Labeling and Batch Coding of Injectable Vials


Department Packaging
SOP No. SOP/PKG/193/2025
Supersedes SOP/PKG/193/2022
Page No. Page 1 of 14
Issue Date 24/06/2025
Effective Date 26/06/2025
Review Date 24/06/2026

1. Purpose

To define the procedure for final labeling and batch coding of injectable vials to ensure traceability, correct product identification, and compliance with GMP and regulatory labeling standards.

2. Scope

This SOP applies to all injectable vials that undergo

final labeling and batch coding in the Packaging Department before packing and dispatch.

3. Responsibilities

  • Packaging Operators: Perform labeling and batch coding operations as per SOP.
  • Packaging Supervisors: Ensure proper setup of machines, verification of printed data, and documentation.
  • QA Personnel: Verify label reconciliation, inspect printed output, and ensure compliance with approved batch records.

4. Accountability

The Packaging Head is accountable for implementation of this SOP and ensuring error-free labeling and coding of all injectable vials.

5. Procedure

5.1 Preparation

  1. Ensure that the labeling area is clean and labeled as per status.
  2. Verify the availability of approved labels from QA.
  3. Collect labeling instructions and batch details from the Batch Packaging Record (BPR).
  4. Cross-verify the following on labels:
    • Product name
    • Strength and volume
    • Batch number
    • Mfg. and Exp. dates
    • MRP and storage conditions

5.2 Labeling Operation

  1. Set up the labeling machine according to vial size and label dimensions.
  2. Perform label roll loading, ensuring direction and alignment is correct.
  3. Conduct label print trial and get it approved by QA before starting bulk labeling.
  4. Operate the machine to label vials with proper adhesion, ensuring:
    • No wrinkles, air bubbles, or misplacement
    • 100% readability and proper orientation

5.3 Batch Coding Operation

  1. Set up the coding device (e.g., inkjet, thermal transfer) for batch number, Mfg. and Exp. date printing.
  2. Conduct trial printing on dummy labels and get QA approval.
  3. Start batch coding process after QA clearance.
  4. Inspect printed output for:
    • Clarity and legibility
    • Correct alignment
    • No smudging or faded text
  5. Document coding verification in the BPR.

5.4 In-Process Checks

  1. Every 30 minutes, verify labeled and coded vials for:
    • Correct batch number and date
    • Defect-free labeling
  2. QA to inspect 1% of labeled vials from each lot.

5.5 Reconciliation and Documentation

  1. Count and reconcile issued vs. used labels and coded vials.
  2. Record unused labels and send them back to QA for destruction.
  3. Complete the Label Reconciliation Sheet (Annexure-1).
  4. Sign off on batch labeling activity in the BPR.

6. Abbreviations

  • SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
  • QA: Quality Assurance
  • BPR: Batch Packaging Record
  • MRP: Maximum Retail Price

7. Documents

  1. Label Reconciliation Sheet – Annexure-1
  2. Batch Coding Verification Log – Annexure-2

8. References

  • WHO GMP Guidelines for Packaging
  • Schedule M – Drugs and Cosmetics Act

9. SOP Version

Version: 2.0

10. Approval Section

Prepared By Checked By Approved By
Signature
Date
Name
Designation Packaging Executive QA Executive Head QA
Department Packaging Quality Assurance Quality Assurance

11. Annexures

Annexure-1: Label Reconciliation Sheet

Batch No. Issued Labels Used Labels Rejected Labels Returned Labels Reconciled Remarks
BN2025C10 5000 4980 10 10 Yes OK

Annexure-2: Batch Coding Verification Log

Date Batch No. Printed Data Verified Verified By Remarks
24/06/2025 BN2025C10 Batch No., Mfg. Date, Exp. Date Rajesh Kumar Legible

Revision History

Revision Date Revision No. Details Reason Approved By
01/01/2022 1.0 Initial Issue New SOP Head QA
24/06/2025 2.0 Updated for automated labelers and digital coding Annual Review Head QA
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