In Pharma, QA is the backbone of GMP compliance. QA does not test the product, QA ensures the _system_ that makes the product is always compliant.
Here are the core duties of QA Department:
*1. Quality Management System (QMS)*
- Preparation, review, approval and control of all GMP documents - SOPs, BMR/BPR, Specifications, STPs
- Document control and archival
- Handling of QMS elements: Deviation, Change Control, CAPA, OOS/OOT, Market Complaint, Product Recall, Risk Assessment (QRM)
*2. Manufacturing & Shopfloor Oversight*
- Line clearance, in-process checks, and IPC monitoring
- Review of Batch Manufacturing Record (BMR) and Batch Packing Record (BPR)
- Issuance of Batch Numbers and control of status labels
*3. Validation & Qualification*
- Approval of Validation Master Plan (VMP)
- Review and approval of protocols and reports for: Process Validation, Cleaning Validation, Equipment/Utility Qualification (DQ, IQ, OQ, PQ), Computer System Validation (CSV)
*4. Quality Control Oversight*
- Not doing testing, but ensuring QC follows cGMP
- Review and approval of specifications, methods, and analytical method validation
*5. Batch Release*
- Final review of all batch documents
- Batch release/rejection decision with Qualified Person / Authorized Person
- Certificate of Analysis (CoA) approval
*6. Audits & Compliance*
- Self-inspection / Internal audits
- Vendor qualification and supplier audits
- Handling regulatory audits - USFDA, WHO-GMP, EU-GMP, Schedule M
- Ensuring compliance with ICH, 21 CFR Part 211, Schedule M
*7. Training*
- Planning and maintaining cGMP training for all departments
- Training effectiveness evaluation and training records
*8. Other Key Responsibilities*
- Annual Product Quality Review (APQR / PQR)
- Handling of returned goods and product recalls
- Approval of artwork, labels, and packaging materials
- Stability management oversight
- Issuance and control of logbooks
In short:
> *QC = Testing the product*
> *QA = Assuring the system that makes the product is right*
Do you want me to share duties as per:
1. For a QA Fresher interview, or
2. For making a QA SOP / Job Description for your company?