Good Warehousing Practices in Pharmaceuticals

December 5th, 2011

Proper warehousing means storing supplies so that products are always available, accessible, and in good condition.

To make sure drugs are not damaged while they are being stored, follow the guidelines and some good practices:-

Clean and disinfect the storage area regularly. No food, drink, gum, tobacco, trash cans in the warehouse and storage area. Personal items are to be kept in designated areas.

 

Record all inbound drugs’ temperatures. Inspect all incoming for spillage and packing condition. If seals are present on the incoming supplies, the seal number should be checked against the seal number on the bill of lading, delivery order to ensure that they are matched.

 

Inspect empty cases, racks and pallets for rodent, insect activity or odors.

 

Store supplies in a dry, well-lit, well and adequate air ventilation, and out of direct sunlight. Make sure no water can leak into the storage area. Report all spilled and damaged cases, racks, guardrails immediately to warehouse executive or supervisors.

 

Proper designated storage areas for “High-risk” drugs, Refrigerated/Frozen zone for “Low-temperature” drugs. Make sure no personal food or drink in the freezer/coolers and make sure the doors closed at all times.

 

Make sure storage cases, racks have adequate clearance off the floor, away from the walls and from other stacks, height constrains. Make sure have sufficient space for inspection and cleaning.

 

Arrange the cartons so that the identification labels and expiration dates or manufacturing dates are visible.

 

Store the drugs in a manner accessible for First-to-Expire, First-Out distribution.

 

Store drugs separately, away from insecticides, chemicals, old files, office supplies, and other materials.

 

Separate and dispose of damaged or expired drugs without delay, according to local and donor regulations.

 

Assure proper security.

 

Make sure fire safety equipment is available and accessible.

 

Wash hands after using rest rooms.