Driving Efficiency and Compliance in Health Product Industries
A computerized system can include hardware, software, its peripherals, interfaces, equipment, users, and operating procedures. Today, in the health products industry that encompasses pharmaceuticals, biologics, vaccines, biotechnology, natural health products, medical devices, cosmetics and allied industries, software and hardware components are used for the purposes of data processing, data storage, and process control.
AXSource Consulting is committed to understanding your unique situation and supporting a complete Computer System Validation (CSV) program, ensuring strict regulatory compliance.
Computer System Validation (CSV) Process
According to US FDA, “ Computer system validation is the process of providing a high degree of assurance through documented evidence that a computer system consistently meets its pre-determined or intended use or quality attributes such as accuracy, security, reliability, and functionality.”
We have performed Computer System Validation (CSV) projects for custom, off-the-shelf (OTS) and highly configurable Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) computer system applications such as:
We are fortunate to have AXSource Inc. that supports our design, development, and implementation efforts.
In addition to ERP, we have validated Laboratory Information Systems (LIMS/LIS), Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems, and medical device software in “GxP” environments. All projects conform to recognized quality standards such as ISPE’s Good Automated Manufacturing Practices (GAMP 5 Guide: Compliant GxP Computerized Systems), US FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Regulations & FDA Software Validation Guidance, and EMA’s Annex 11 Regulations on Computerised Systems.
AXSource Consulting can assist in identifying the area of the regulated process or the medical devices that require validation. We can provide you with expert advice throughout the entire project lifecycle whether you are using an Agile Methodology or System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) approach.
Under FDA software validation requirements for medical devices, “ any software used to automate any part of the device production process or any part of the quality system must be validated for its intended use,” as required by 21 CFR §820.70(i). This requirement applies to any software used to automate device design, testing, component acceptance, manufacturing, labeling, packaging, distribution, complaint handling, or to automate any other aspect of the quality system. We have ample experience performing medical device software validation for clients all over the world.
Cost Savings
AXSource consultants prefer to support clients interactively to enable a smooth transition to client in-house IT and quality teams and most importantly to provide cost savings.
When is Computer System Validation required?
When is the right time to validate the system or device? To what extent is the validation necessary?
The extent of validation is commensurate to the risk posed by the system in terms of patient safety, the accuracy and security of the data involved, and/or the nature of the change. At AXSource, we evaluate the purpose and risks associated with each system prior to designing a validation strategy with our clients. Although not recommended by agencies, AXSource has also performed numerous retrospective validation of numerous existing computerized systems.
How does Software Validation apply to me?
- Automated operation and/or control in “GxP” (Manufacturing, Laboratory, Clinical, Distribution) environments.
- Software used as a medical device or as a component of a medical device.
- Controlling of health product (medical device, pharmaceutical, natural health product, biologics in humans or animals) manufacturing or control process, e.g., weighing, mixing, compounding, labeling, automated inspection systems, laboratory information system.
- Used in traceability and inventory control of health product (raw materials, components, bulk, finished products, devices).
- Used in recording health product manufacturing and control batch history information (electronic Batch Record) including e-Signature.
- Used in collecting & archiving clinical data to order to perform a medical assessment of risk & treatment.
- Used in Environmental Control provisions of health product process, e.g., HVAC.
- Used in critical supply of utilities in health products manufacturing, e.g., CIP/SIP, Purified Water.
- Used in Laboratory to inspect and test health products.
- Used in data records (word processing, spreadsheets, databases) to ensure integrity.
- Wireless technology or interface employed for any of the above functions.
- Definition of acceptance criteria with statistical significance limits.
- List of various statistical methods to be employed for validation & statistics. analysis (accuracy, precision, standard deviation, confidence interval, Pareto analyses, T-test, etc.)
- Need and determine the basis for any re-validation activity, if required.
Deliverables
Documentation deliverables during the IQ, OQ and PQ phases of the computer system validation / software validation, include but are not limited to the following:
Partner With Us for Computer System Validation and Medical Device Software Validation Needs!
FAQs on Computer System Validation (CSV)
1. What is computer system validation (CSV)?
Computer System Validation (CSV) is a documented process used to ensure that computer systems consistently produce results that meet predetermined specifications and comply with regulatory requirements. It is crucial in FDA-regulated industries to ensure data integrity, patient safety, and product quality.
2. Why is computer system validation (CSV) important for medical devices?
CSV is essential for medical devices because it ensures that the software used in the design, manufacturing, and quality control of medical devices operates correctly and reliably. This helps prevent errors that could affect patient safety and product efficacy.
3. What are the key components of a CSV plan?
A CSV plan typically includes:
- System Description: Detailed information about the system and its intended use.
- Risk Assessment: Identifying potential risks and their impact on product quality and patient safety.
- Validation Strategy: Outline of the validation approach, including testing and documentation requirements.
- Testing Protocols: Detailed procedures for testing the system to ensure it meets specifications
4. What is GMP software validation?
GMP software validation ensures that software used in GMP-regulated activities (such as manufacturing, quality control, and distribution) meets regulatory requirements and operates as intended. This is critical for maintaining compliance with GMP standards and ensuring product quality.
5. What are the steps involved in computer system validation (CSV)?
The CSV process typically involves the following steps:
- Planning: Defining the scope, objectives, and approach for validation.
- Specification: Documenting user requirements and functional specifications.
- Programming: Developing or configuring the software according to specifications.
- Testing: Conducting various tests (e.g., unit, integration, system, and user acceptance testing) to verify the software meets requirements.
- Documentation: Creating and maintaining records of all validation activities and results.
- Operation: Ensuring the system operates correctly in the production environment
6. How does computer system validation (CSV) ensure compliance with regulatory requirements?
CSV ensures compliance by following guidelines and standards set by regulatory authorities such as the FDA, EMA, and ISO. This includes adhering to principles outlined in documents like the FDA’s General Principles of Software Validation and ICH Q7.
7. What are common challenges in computer system validation (CSV)?
Common challenges include:
- Keeping up with evolving regulatory requirements
- Managing documentation and ensuring traceability
- Ensuring thorough testing and risk assessment
- Integrating validation activities into the overall quality management system
8. How can businesses ensure successful CSV implementation?
Businesses can ensure successful CSV implementation by:
- Engaging experienced validation consultants
- Using robust validation tools and software
- Conducting thorough risk assessments and testing
- Maintaining comprehensive documentation and records
