Risk assessment in a pharmaceutical warehouse using the GB-SWARA method

In pharmaceutical logistics, there are complex, meticulous, and uncertain decision-making scenarios in the event of any potential risk. Among the main risks are the timely delivery of medicines, ensuring product safety, and complying with regulatory requirements—all of which are of great importance. If any of these factors are compromised during the stages of pharmaceutical logistics, it can lead to operational disruptions and, more importantly, negatively affect public health. Therefore, identifying and evaluating potential risks in pharmaceutical logistics, and subsequently utilizing risk analysis methods to effectively define and address these risks within logistics processes, is essential for preventing such disruptions. In this study, the Improved Fuzzy Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (Improved Fuzzy SWARA) method was applied to determine the priority ranking of criteria. This method was chosen because it allows decision-makers to express their views more flexibly and meaningfully in uncertain situations. Additionally, it is easier to apply and more reliable in terms of result consistency compared to other methods. The fuzzy numbers used during the comparisons enabled the incorporation of expert opinions—although not always clear, yet valuable—into the analytical process, and the risk criteria were weighted according to their importance levels. Within the scope of the research, ten risk elements—such as Temperature and Humidity Control Risk, Computerized Systems Risk, and Fire Risk—were evaluated, and the application was conducted in pharmaceutical warehouses. The results provided guidance for decision-makers in terms of both risk management and risk prioritization. This study demonstrated that the Improved Fuzzy SWARA method is applicable in the field of pharmaceutical logistics. Moreover, since the mentioned method can also be adapted to other sectors, it contributes methodologically to the literature. Keywords: Pharmaceutical Logistics, Pharmaceutical Warehouses, Improved Fuzzy SWARA, Risk Analysis