AIT Worldwide Logistics’ Life Sciences Control Tower has received Good Distribution Practice certification from inspector SGS.

The GDP certificate requires pharmaceutical handlers to meet World Health Organization standards for safety and security.

It is not a global requirement but European Union companies and their logistics partners must comply with GDP.

The life science control tower in Itasca, Illinois underwent several document, process and procedure audits to obtain certification, including a two-day onsite assessment and a live product recall drill.

SGS also reviewed AIT’s vendors and suppliers, as well as physical inspections of the control tower’s containers and packaging, sanitary conditions, security and temperature control variations.

William Freidal, sales director of AIT Life Sciences says: “In an increasingly complex industry, GDP certification elevates our global offering. It not only affirms our commitment as a premium pharmaceuticals and life sciences logistics provider, it underlines our dedication to security and quality across the board.”

Aaron Ambrite, global compliance director of AIT adds: “The certification process was all-encompassing to ensure that AIT’s cold-chain procedures meet WHO standards and provide customers with a secure, safe, and efficient supply chain for pharmaceutical cargo. We were well positioned going into the audit, and it provided an opportunity for the control tower to enhance and improve upon already existing procedures.”