A pharmaceutical manufacturer outsources microbiological tes…
A pharmaceutical manufacturer outsources microbiological testing of finished products to an external laboratory. During a self-inspection, the QA department discovers that no formal technical or quality agreement exists between the company and the laboratory. The laboratory was not qualified or audited before testing commenced. Responsibilities for OOS investigations and data review are unclear. The contract laboratory recently subcontracted part of the testing to another facility without informing the manufacturer. According to PIC/S GMP Chapter 7 (Outsourced Activities), which of the following represents the most significant GMP concern?