Equipment Validation in Pharmaceutical Industries
What is it?
A systematic, documented process that ensures pharmaceutical equipment performs reliably, safely, and compliantly throughout its lifecycle.
Regulatory Framework
FDA (21 CFR 211.63): Design, risk-based validation, revalidation.
EMA (Annex 15): Lifecycle approach, risk management, exposure limits.
ICH (Q8–Q10): Science-driven, risk-based, global harmonization.
Stages of Validation
Design Qualification (DQ): Confirms design meets user & regulatory needs.
Installation Qualification (IQ): Proper installation & calibration checks.
Operational Qualification (OQ): Testing under operating ranges & safety systems.
Performance Qualification (PQ): Reliability under real production conditions.
Phases
Pre-Validation – Planning, URS, risk assessment.
Process Validation – Controlled testing & data analysis.
Validation Maintenance – Requalification, change control, monitoring.
MBH/PS

