Standard Operating Procedure for Calibrating Nebulizer Ultrasonic Cleaning Equipment
1) Purpose
The purpose of this SOP is to outline the calibration process for nebulizer ultrasonic cleaning equipment to ensure its effectiveness and consistency in cleaning components as per required standards.
2) Scope
This SOP applies to all ultrasonic cleaning equipment used in the cleaning processes during the manufacturing of nebulizer components within the facility.
3) Responsibilities
Operators: Assist in calibration setup and document readings.
Maintenance Team: Perform calibration and ensure proper functioning of the equipment.
Quality Assurance (QA): Validate calibration results and approve calibration records.
Supervisors: Oversee the calibration process and ensure compliance with the SOP.
4) Procedure
4.1 Pre-Calibration Checks
- Inspect the ultrasonic cleaner for physical damage, dirt, or residues from previous operations.
- Ensure the cleaning solution reservoir is empty and cleaned.
- Verify that all calibration instruments, such as frequency meters and watt meters, are within their calibration validity period.
- Document the equipment details, such as model and serial number, in the Calibration Log.
4.2 Calibration Setup
- Fill the ultrasonic cleaner’s reservoir with deionized water or a calibration-specific solution.
- Insert the calibration instruments into the cleaning chamber as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Set the equipment to the specified frequency and power
4.3 Calibration Procedure
- Activate the ultrasonic cleaner and allow it to run for a warm-up period as specified in the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Measure the frequency and power output using the calibration instruments and compare the readings with the equipment’s specifications.
- Verify the uniformity of ultrasonic waves by placing foil strips or a cavitation meter in different areas of the cleaning tank.
- Record all readings and note any deviations from the acceptable range.
- If deviations exceed allowable limits, adjust the equipment settings and repeat the calibration process.
4.4 Post-Calibration Activities
- Drain the calibration solution from the tank and clean the reservoir thoroughly.
- Label the ultrasonic cleaner with the calibration status, date, and next due date.
- Submit the calibration results to the QA team for validation and approval.
- Document the calibration activity in the Calibration Log and file a copy of the Calibration Report.
4.5 Frequency of Calibration
- Routine Calibration: Quarterly or as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Post-Maintenance Calibration: Conducted after repairs or replacement of critical components.
- Annual Calibration: Comprehensive calibration by an external certified agency.
4.6 Handling Calibration Failures
- Isolate the equipment if calibration fails and report the issue to the maintenance team.
- Document the failure details in the Calibration Failure Report and notify the QA team.
- Rectify the issue and repeat the calibration process before using the equipment.
4.7 Safety Precautions
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety goggles, during calibration activities.
- Ensure that the equipment is disconnected from the power supply when inserting or removing calibration instruments.
- Handle electrical components and calibration instruments with care to avoid damage or injury.
5) Abbreviations
- QA: Quality Assurance
- PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
6) Documents
The following documents should be maintained:
- Calibration Log
- Calibration Report
- Calibration Failure Report
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: Calibration Log
Date | Equipment ID | Frequency (kHz) | Power Output (W) | Performed By | Remarks |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DD/MM/YYYY | Equipment Identifier | Frequency Measured | Power Measured | Technician Name | Details of calibration |
Annexure Title: Calibration Report
Date | Equipment ID | Pre-Calibration Reading | Post-Calibration Reading | Performed By | QA Approval |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DD/MM/YYYY | Equipment Identifier | Details of pre-readings | Details of post-readings | Technician Name | QA Name |
Annexure Title: Calibration Failure Report
Date | Equipment ID | Issue Identified | Corrective Action | Performed By | QA Approval |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DD/MM/YYYY | Equipment Identifier | Details of issue | Details of corrective action | Technician Name | QA Name |