PMCC FAQ

PMCC – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Pharmaceutical Microbiology Competency Certification

This FAQ section provides clarity regarding the structure, eligibility, examination process, certification validity, and governance of PMCC.

General Questions

1. What is PMCC?

PMCC (Pharmaceutical Microbiology Competency Certification) is a structured, competency-based certification program designed to evaluate knowledge, risk-based understanding, and regulatory awareness in pharmaceutical microbiology.

2. Is PMCC a training program or certification?

PMCC is a competency certification program. Certification is granted only after successful examination and evaluation, not merely attending training.

3. Who should apply for PMCC?

  • Manufacturing personnel entering controlled areas
  • Microbiologists
  • QA professionals
  • Environmental Monitoring analysts
  • Sterility Testing personnel

Certification Levels

4. What are the certification levels available?

  • Level 1 – Basic: Access Qualification
  • Level 2 – Expert / SME: Advanced Competency Certification

5. What is the difference between Basic and SME levels?

Basic Expert / SME
Fundamentals & Awareness Advanced Investigation & Risk Assessment
80% Pass Criteria 85% Pass + Case Study
1 Year Validity 2 Years Validity

Examination Questions

6. What type of examination is conducted?

  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
  • Scenario-based evaluation
  • Case study (SME level)
  • Risk assessment exercises (SME level)

7. What is the passing score?

  • Basic Level – Minimum 80%
  • Expert / SME Level – Minimum 85% + Case Study clearance

8. Can I reattempt if I fail?

Yes. Candidates may reattempt as per Examination Policy guidelines. Retraining may be required before re-examination.

Certification & Validity

9. How long is the certification valid?

  • Basic Level – 1 Year
  • SME Level – 2 Years

10. Is re-certification mandatory?

Yes. Certification must be renewed upon expiry to maintain active status.

11. How can employers verify certification?

Certification can be verified using the official PMCC Verification Portal by submitting the unique Certification ID.

Registration & Eligibility

12. What are the eligibility criteria?

  • Basic – Completion of required training modules
  • SME – Minimum 1 year pharmaceutical microbiology experience (recommended)

13. What documents are required for registration?

  • Government ID
  • Educational certificate (SME level)
  • Experience proof (SME level)
  • Recent photograph

Professional Conduct

14. Can certification be suspended?

Yes. Certification may be suspended or withdrawn in cases of misconduct, fraud, or serious GMP violations.

15. Is PMCC aligned with regulatory standards?

PMCC curriculum is designed with awareness alignment to EU GMP Annex 1, WHO GMP, USP microbiology guidance, and risk-based principles.

Technical & Administrative

16. Is the examination online or offline?

Examination mode may vary depending on administrative arrangements. Official communication will specify examination format.

17. Will I receive a digital certificate?

Yes. Successful candidates receive a digital certificate with unique Certification ID and validity details.

18. What happens if I lose my certificate?

Duplicate certificate requests may be submitted to PMCC administration with proper identification.

Disclaimer

PMCC certification confirms competency at the time of examination. It does not replace employer qualification systems, regulatory approvals, or GMP compliance responsibilities.

FAQ Version Control

Version Effective Date Approved By
Rev 1.0 To Be Assigned PMCC Governing Authority

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