Strengthening GLP compliance through internal audits

Abstract

The Quality Assurance (QA) strategy for assessing Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) compliance at different testing facilities varies from focusing on study data verification to taking a quality system approach. As a best practice and to ensure overall compliance with GLP regulations, the Quality Assurance Unit (QAU) should perform three types of internal audits: study-specific, process-based, and system inspection. These internal audits serve as a tool to ascertain whether a GLP compliance program is functioning correctly. Information gathered from these audits can also be used to provide assistance during the evolution of a new GLP compliance program. As the GLP compliance program matures, internal audits can be a useful mechanism to help maintain compliance and promote continued improvement. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.