Standard Operating Procedure for Operating Nebulizer Purging Systems
1) Purpose
The purpose of this SOP is to establish a standardized procedure for the operation of nebulizer purging systems to ensure effective removal of contaminants and maintenance of product quality.
2) Scope
This SOP applies to all nebulizer purging systems used during the production and cleaning processes in the manufacturing facility.
3) Responsibilities
Operators: Operate the purging systems as per this SOP and monitor their performance.
Maintenance Team: Ensure the system is in proper working condition and address any malfunctions.
Quality Assurance (QA): Validate the purging process and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
4) Procedure
4.1 Pre-Operation Checks
- Ensure the purging system is cleaned as per the cleaning SOP and is free from debris or previous material residues.
- Inspect the system components, including hoses, valves, and nozzles, for wear and tear or blockages.
- Verify the calibration status of the purging system controls and monitoring devices.
- Document the system’s details, including the operational parameters, in the Purging System Operation Log.
4.2 Setting Up the Purging System
- Connect the purging system to the equipment or container requiring purging.
- Set the purging parameters, such as gas type, flow rate, and duration, as per the batch requirements.
- Ensure that safety features, such as pressure relief valves, are functional.
- Perform a test purge with a small volume to verify the system’s functionality and parameter accuracy.
4.3 Operating the Purging System
- Start the purging process by activating the control panel or designated start mechanism.
- Monitor the system’s performance indicators, such as flow rate and pressure, during operation.
- Ensure the system operates within the specified parameters throughout the purging process.
- Document any anomalies or deviations in the Equipment Observation Log.
4.4 Post-Operation Activities
- Stop the purging system and disconnect it from the equipment or container.
- Inspect the system components for damage or wear after operation.
- Clean the system as per the cleaning SOP to prepare it for the next use.
- Record the operation details, including start and end times, in the Purging System Operation Log.
4.5 Safety Precautions
- Ensure personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety goggles, is worn during operation.
- Avoid placing hands or objects near moving parts or nozzles during operation.
- Ensure proper ventilation in the area to prevent the buildup of purging gases.
5) Abbreviations
- QA: Quality Assurance
- PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
6) Documents
The following documents should be maintained:
- Purging System Operation Log
- Equipment Observation Log
- Purging System Maintenance Log
7) References
Relevant regulatory guidelines and references include:
- ISO 13485: Medical Devices Quality Management Systems
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Guidelines
- Equipment Manufacturer’s Manual
8) SOP Version
Version: 1.0
Annexure
Annexure Title: Purging System Operation Log
| Date | System ID | Parameters Set | Operator Initials | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DD/MM/YYYY | System Identifier | Details of settings | Operator Name | Details of operation |
Annexure Title: Equipment Observation Log
| Date | System ID | Observation | Action Taken | Performed By | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DD/MM/YYYY | System Identifier | Details of observation | Corrective actions | Technician Name | Details |
Annexure Title: Purging System Maintenance Log
| Date | System ID | Maintenance Type | Performed By | QA Approval | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DD/MM/YYYY | System Identifier | Routine/Corrective | Technician Name | QA Name | Details of maintenance |
