High Performance Liquid Chromatography is the most frequently used analytical tool for pharmaceutical and API testing laboratories. FDA and international agencies require HPLC equipment to be calibrated, qualified and tested to ensure accurate and reliable analytical results. Even though this is well known since long time, laboratories are unsure on what exactly should be tested initially and on an on-going basis.

Using the QbD approach for development and validation will result in more robust analytical methods. Advantages are easier method transfer, longer revalidation cycles and fewer or no methods specific Out-of-Specification situations when used in routine.

Auditing of computer systems is important to verify compliance of the systems with regulations and internal standards. When done right, audits can help to improve quality of computer system operation and uptime.

Laboratory equipment should be calibrated and/or qualified to demonstrate suitability for the intended use. Laboratory systems including equipment are amongst key targets of FDA inspections. They are considered high risk systems because they have a high impact on product quality. Despite the fact that equipment calibration and qualification is nothing new and companies spend a lot of time, it is a frequently cited deviation in FDA inspectional observations and warning letters. Companies are unsure on what exactly to qualify, test and document.