Date: 7-APRIL-2012 Last Updated: 15-AUGUST-2026
Overview
Chemical Solutions™ HSQ™ (High Sensitivity Qualification) and PQ™ (Performance Qualification) Kits are designed to support instrument qualification activities while allowing laboratories to maintain control over their own quality systems and documentation practices.
Because qualification requirements can vary significantly between organizations, industries, regulatory environments, and internal quality programs, formal Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) templates are not included with the kits.
Instead, laboratories are expected to develop and maintain SOPs that align with their specific:
- Quality Management System (QMS)
- Regulatory requirements
- Validation protocols
- Internal procedures
- Instrument qualification programs
Qualification Documentation Resources
Although formal SOP templates are not supplied, the kits include resources that can assist with procedural development and qualification documentation.
These resources may include:
- Qualification worksheets
- Excel™ calculation templates
- Qualification protocols
- Quick Start Instructions
- Test-specific guidance materials
These tools can help laboratories establish qualification workflows and document testing activities in a format consistent with their internal requirements.
Using the Excel™ Templates
The qualification spreadsheets included with the kits provide a practical framework for documenting qualification activities and calculating performance results.
Many laboratories use these materials as a starting point when developing:
- Qualification procedures
- Testing instructions
- Instrument-specific SOPs
- Performance verification protocols
The templates help demonstrate the sequence of qualification activities and the types of records commonly maintained during testing.
Using the Quick Start Instructions
The Quick Start Instructions provide an overview of the qualification process and can serve as a useful reference when preparing internal procedures.
These instructions may assist laboratories in defining:
- Qualification workflow steps
- Required materials
- Test sequence order
- Data collection requirements
- Result documentation practices
The final SOP should always reflect the laboratory's approved procedures and quality standards.
Why SOP Customization Is Important
Qualification programs differ among organizations based on factors such as:
- Regulatory obligations
- Industry requirements
- Instrument configurations
- Data integrity programs
- Internal quality policies
Developing an organization-specific SOP helps ensure that qualification activities are performed consistently and according to approved requirements.
Best Practices
When creating qualification procedures, laboratories should consider documenting:
- Instrument identification
- Qualification frequency
- Test acceptance criteria
- Data recording requirements
- Calibration requirements
- Corrective action procedures
- Record retention policies
These elements help support traceability and consistency throughout the qualification program.
Key Takeaways
- HSQ™ and PQ™ Qualification Kits do not include formal SOP templates.
- Laboratories are expected to develop their own qualification procedures.
- Qualification spreadsheets and Quick Start Instructions can assist with SOP development.
- Procedures should align with internal quality systems and regulatory requirements.
- Organization-specific SOPs help ensure consistent qualification practices and documentation.