A technical quality agreement (TQA) is a critical document that outlines the quality expectations and responsibilities of both the contract manufacturing organization (CMO) and the sponsor company. A TQA is an essential part of the outsourcing process for any pharmaceutical or biotech organization and must be carefully negotiated between the parties involved to ensure that all parties are aligned in their approach to quality.
A TQA contains specific technical and quality details that govern the manufacturing process. The agreement covers various aspects, including manufacturing procedures, packaging, labeling, testing, release of goods, and other quality-related aspects. It should effectively and transparently establish the manufacturing standards, product specifications, and quality controls that the CMO must follow to produce a satisfactory end product. Other key elements of the TQA may include validation procedures, change control management, and documentation requirements.
A well-crafted TQA ensures that the contract manufacturing process meets quality standards and regulatory requirements. It serves as a tool to ensure that all parties involved in the manufacturing process are accountable for their specific roles, reduce the risks of delays, and prevent potential problems during inspections and audits.
When drafting a TQA, it is critical to ensure that the document is comprehensive, clear, concise, and mutually agreeable to both parties. Therefore, the sponsor company should consider engaging a professional to help draft the agreement effectively.
Here are some key elements to consider when drafting a TQA:
1. Scope of the Agreement: This section should describe the products or services that the CMO will provide, including the manufacturing process, testing, and release of the product.
2. Responsibilities: This section should outline the responsibilities of the CMO and the sponsor company regarding quality control, change management, and communication procedures. It should also identify the roles of the quality assurance, quality control, and regulatory personnel involved in the manufacturing process.
3. Manufacturing Procedures: This section should outline the manufacturing processes and specifications, including the raw materials used, batch records, and packaging and labeling requirements.
4. Testing: This section should outline the testing procedures, including analytical methods, specifications, and acceptance criteria. It should also cover the testing of raw materials, in-process testing, and finished product testing.
5. Validation: This section should outline the validation procedures, including equipment qualification, process validation, and cleaning validation.
When writing a TQA, it is critical to consider the regulatory requirements for your product and industry. The document should be written in clear and concise language, with specific technical details, allowing both parties to understand expectations and comply with them.
In conclusion, a TQA is a crucial document in any contract manufacturing process, serving as a tool for quality assurance and compliance. Properly drafted, this document protects both the CMO and the sponsor company, ensuring appropriate quality controls while minimizing potential risks and delays. Engaging a professional can help you craft an effective TQA that meets all regulatory requirements and ensures quality manufacturing processes.