How to Conduct Robust Root Cause Investigations for CAPA

One of the most common FDA 483 and Warning Letter citations continues to be inadequate investigations. The FDA uses the investigation reports and investigation trends to identify potential quality problems in all areas of the company. Ultimately, inadequate investigations can lead to 483 citations, Warning Letters, release of sub-standard product, or product recall. Furthermore, costly and time-consuming system remediation may be required.

Having a procedure on Deviation Investigations is not enough. It is the content and conclusions of the investigations themselves that truly count. Doing a proper root cause analysis, gathering evidence and ensuring a sustainable corrective action is key to a proper deviation investigation.

This seminar will help attendees understand the fundamental investigation steps and skill sets. Key focus will be placed on identification and initial reporting of deviations, fact/evidence gathering, and arriving at the correct root cause and CAPA. The importance of investigation planning, critical thinking skills and effective preventative action plans will also be discussed.

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is an important technique practiced by many successful companies. It is used to determine the Corrective Action and Preventive Action CAPA procedures that are mandatory for the Quality Management Systems (QMS). This training improves the way you analyze, document, and verify the root causes of a problem so that you can prevent their recurrence.

This course will also include discussions on proper CAPA system maintenance, documentation of the Corrective and Preventative Actions and developing a robust CAPA plan. It will give tips on how to develop CAPAs pertaining to longer term projects and ensure they stay on track.