Another first for Hactl’s pharma handling

Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) has been confirmed as complying with all the requirements of IATA CEIV Pharma. Hactl is the first handler in Hong Kong to obtain the certification.

Hactl’s certification is the result of an initiative sponsored by Hong Kong Airport Authority, in which all relevant industry players at the airport will undergo validation for the IATA CEIV Pharma standard.

IATA CEIV Pharma represents a co-ordinated effort to ensure competency, as well as operational and technical readiness, for the storage and transportation of pharmaceuticals by air. It is designed to help the industry further develop a network of certified pharmaceutical trade lanes that meet consistent cold-chain management standards and assure product integrity.

Hactl’s accreditation follows an extensive independent assessment and validation, involving detailed inspections, and personal interviews with managers and supervisors at all levels within Hactl. The assessment and validation covered the company’s quality management system and procedures, personnel, training, documentation, infrastructure and equipment, quarantine procedures, sub-contractor management, self-inspection procedures, transportation and operations. All were found to be fully compliant, with no non-conformances.

The validation report praised Hactl’s preparations for the audit process, the helpful attitudes of its staff, and its total cooperation. Says IATA’s General Manager, Hong Kong and Macau, Yvonne Ho: “I congratulate Hactl on being the first to receive CEIV certification in Hong Kong.  In doing so, Hactl has achieved an internationally recognized standard for pharmaceutical handling.”

Adds Hactl’s senior manager – quality assurance, Benny Siu: “We are very pleased with the positive outcome of the IATA CEIV Pharma Validation, and value the cross-departmental team effort that resulted in Hactl becoming the first to obtain this important certification.”

Mark Whitehead, chief executive of Hactl, concludes: “We applaud the Airport Authority’s initiative in sponsoring this drive to adopt IATA CEIV Pharma in Hong Kong. It’s an excellent example of what can be achieved through collaboration, and will benefit the entire airport cargo community and its customers.”