Annex 21 of the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines for medicinal products outlines the requirements for the importation of medicinal products into the European Union (EU). Warehouse providers involved in storing and handling medicinal products for importation must comply with these guidelines. To qualify a warehouse provider and ensure they are in compliance with Annex 21, an auditor can follow these steps:

  1. Review Annex 21 Requirements: Start by thoroughly understanding the requirements specified in Annex 21. This includes requirements related to premises, storage conditions, documentation, quality management systems, and more.
  2. Pre-Audit Preparation: Before conducting the audit, gather necessary documents, such as the warehouse provider’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), quality manuals, and any relevant records.
  3. Conduct a Gap Analysis: Compare the warehouse provider’s existing practices, procedures, and facilities with the requirements outlined in Annex 21. Identify any gaps or areas of non-compliance.
  4. Plan the Audit: Develop a comprehensive audit plan that includes the scope, objectives, audit team, and a timeline for the audit process.
  5. Conduct On-Site Audit: Visit the warehouse provider’s facility and conduct a thorough on-site audit. During the audit, assess the following key areas: a. Premises: Evaluate the condition and suitability of the warehouse, including security, cleanliness, temperature control, and pest control. b. Quality Management System: Review the warehouse provider’s quality management system to ensure it includes GMP-compliant procedures, record-keeping, and change control. c. Documentation: Check that all necessary documentation, including records of incoming and outgoing products, is complete and compliant with GMP requirements. d. Storage and Handling: Inspect how medicinal products are stored and handled to ensure compliance with temperature and humidity requirements, segregation of products, and prevention of cross-contamination. e. Personnel: Assess the competence and training of warehouse staff to ensure they are aware of GMP requirements and can perform their duties effectively. f. Transportation: If applicable, review transportation procedures to ensure that medicinal products are handled appropriately during transit.
  6. Document Findings: Document all findings, including observations of compliance and non-compliance, during the audit. Ensure that evidence supports your conclusions.
  7. Prepare an Audit Report: Compile all the information gathered during the audit into a comprehensive audit report. The report should include an executive summary, detailed findings, observations, and recommendations.
  8. Issue Corrective Actions: If non-compliance is identified, work with the warehouse provider to develop and implement corrective actions to address the deficiencies.
  9. Follow-Up and Verification: After corrective actions are taken, conduct a follow-up audit or verification to ensure that the warehouse provider has effectively addressed the identified issues and is now in compliance with Annex 21.
  10. Maintain Documentation: Keep all audit records, reports, and correspondence related to the warehouse provider’s compliance for your records.
  11. Continuous Monitoring: Continue to monitor the warehouse provider’s compliance with Annex 21 requirements through periodic audits and inspections to ensure ongoing compliance.

It’s essential to approach the audit process systematically, using a risk-based approach, and involve qualified auditors with expertise in GMP and regulatory compliance. Collaboration between the auditor and the warehouse provider is also crucial to ensure that any identified issues are resolved effectively and promptly.

For any questions get in touch with us at info@miaspharma.com