Storage Guidelines for Raw Materials in Vaginal Dosage Forms Manufacturing

1) Purpose

The purpose of this SOP is to establish the proper storage conditions for raw materials used in the manufacturing of vaginal dosage forms, ensuring their quality and integrity are maintained.

2) Scope

This SOP applies to all raw materials stored at the pharmaceutical facility for the production of vaginal dosage forms.

3) Responsibilities

The Warehouse, Quality Control (QC), and Quality Assurance (QA) departments are responsible for implementing and adhering to this SOP.

4) Procedure

4.1 General Storage Requirements

1. Ensure all raw materials are stored in designated areas according to their specific storage requirements.
2. Maintain the storage area in a clean and organized manner to prevent contamination and mix-ups.
3. Ensure proper labeling of all raw material containers with details such as material name, batch/lot number, expiry date, and storage conditions.

4.2 Temperature-Controlled Storage

1. Store temperature-sensitive raw materials in temperature-controlled environments such as refrigerators or freezers as specified in the material specification sheet.
2. Monitor and record the temperature of storage areas daily to ensure compliance with specified conditions.
3. Use calibrated temperature monitoring devices to ensure accuracy.

4.3 Humidity-Controlled Storage

1. Store moisture-sensitive raw materials in humidity-controlled environments as specified in the material specification sheet.
2. Monitor and record the humidity levels of storage areas daily to ensure compliance with specified conditions.
3. Use calibrated humidity monitoring devices to ensure accuracy.

4.4 Light-Sensitive Storage

1. Store light-sensitive raw materials in opaque or amber-colored containers to protect them from light exposure.
2. Ensure storage areas are equipped with proper lighting controls to prevent exposure to direct sunlight or bright artificial light.

4.5 Segregation of Raw Materials

1. Segregate raw materials based on their status (e.g., quarantined, approved, rejected) to prevent mix-ups.
2. Store quarantined materials separately from approved and rejected materials until they are tested and released by QC.
3. Store rejected materials separately from approved materials to prevent accidental use in production.

4.6 Handling and Transportation

1. Handle raw materials carefully to avoid physical damage or contamination during transportation within the facility.
2. Use appropriate handling equipment such as pallets, trolleys, or forklifts to transport raw materials.
3. Ensure transportation routes are clean and free from obstructions to prevent contamination.

4.7 Documentation and Record Keeping

1. Maintain records of storage conditions, temperature, and humidity monitoring for all raw materials.
2. Document any deviations from specified storage conditions and investigate the impact on material quality.
3. Retain storage records according to regulatory requirements.

4.8 Training

1. Provide training to personnel involved in the storage and handling of raw materials on the procedures and documentation requirements outlined in this SOP.
2. Document all training sessions and ensure all relevant staff are trained.

5) Abbreviations, if any

QC – Quality Control
QA – Quality Assurance

6) Documents, if any

Material specification sheets, temperature and humidity logs, storage records

7) Reference, if any

FDA Guidance for Industry: Quality Systems Approach to Pharmaceutical CGMP Regulations, ICH Q7: Good Manufacturing Practice Guide for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients

8) SOP Version

Version 1.0