Book excerpt: Manual and is a supplement to the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) for pharmaceutical microbiology testing, including antimicrobial effectiveness testing, microbial examination of non-sterile products, sterility testing, bacterial endotoxin testing, particulate matter, device bioburden and environmental monitoring testing. The goal of this manual is to provide an ORA/CDER harmonized framework on the knowledge, methods and tools needed, and to apply the appropriate scientific standards required to assess the safety and efficacy of medical products within FDA testing laboratories. The PMM has expanded to include some rapid screening techniques along with a new section that covers inspectional guidance for microbiologists that conduct team inspections. This manual was developed by members of the Pharmaceutical Microbiology Workgroup and includes individuals with specialized experience and training. The instructions in this document are guidelines for FDA analysts. When available, analysts should use procedures and worksheets that are standardized and harmonized across all ORA field labs, along with the PMM, when performing analyses related to product testing of pharmaceuticals and medical devices. When changes or deviations are necessary, documentation should be completed per the laboratory's Quality Management System. Generally, these changes should originate from situations such as new products, unusual products, or unique situations. This manual was written to reduce compendia method ambiguity and increase standardization between FDA field laboratories. By providing clearer instructions to FDA ORA labs, greater transparency can be provided to both industry and the public. However, it should be emphasized that this manual is a supplement, and does not replace any information in USP or applicable FDA official guidance references. The PMM does not relieve any person or laboratory from the responsibility of ensuring that the methods being employed from the manual are fit for use, and that all testing is validated and/or verified by the user. The PMM will continually be revised as newer products, platforms and technologies emerge or any significant scientific gaps are identified with product testing. Reference to any commercial materials, equipment, or process in the PMM does not in any way constitute approval, endorsement, or recommendation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.