Quality Risk Management in a Quality Management System

In the intricate tapestry of a Quality Management System (QMS) in the pharmaceutical sector, Quality Risk Management (QRM) emerges as a pivotal thread, intertwining risk definition,  identification, assessment, and mitigation. Let’s dive into the deep layers of QRM within a QMS, elucidating how it serves as a cornerstone for ensuring pharmaceutical products’ efficacy, safety, and quality.

The Essence of Quality Risk Management

At its core, QRM in a QMS is the systematic process of coordinating activities to direct and control an organization about risk. This involves thoroughly understanding potential risks in every aspect of pharmaceutical production and developing strategies to manage these risks effectively. QRM is not just about responding to risks; it’s about anticipating them and having preemptive measures in place.

The Framework of Quality Risk Management

The framework for QRM can be viewed as a multi-stage process, akin to a multi-layered defense strategy in a complex game of chess. It involves:

• Risk Identification
  • Recognizing and describing risks that might affect the process or product. This is akin to mapping the battleground, understanding where threats might emerge.
• Risk Assessment
  • Analyzing and evaluating the risk. This stage involves understanding the nature of the risk, its likelihood, and potential impact – essentially assessing the opponent’s strength and strategy. In addition, the detectability of an emerging risk must be evaluated.
• Risk Control
  • Making decisions about the best strategies to manage and mitigate risks. This includes reducing or eliminating the risk and includes contingency planning – akin to developing tactics in response to the opponent’s moves. The risk controls can be identified prior to the start of a study and if possible – be eliminated prior to the start of a study, or can be developed during the course of the study.
• Risk Communication
  • Sharing information about risks and risk management between decision-makers and other stakeholders who need to know. This ensures that everyone involved is aware of the risks and the strategies in place to manage them.
• Risk Review
  • Monitoring and reviewing the risk and the control measures to ensure continuous improvement. This stage involves revisiting the battlefield strategy, learning from the outcomes, and refining tactics.