Standard Operating Procedure for Indoor Air Quality Monitoring in Manufacturing Areas
1) Purpose
The purpose of this SOP is to establish a standardized procedure for monitoring and maintaining indoor air quality (IAQ) in manufacturing areas to ensure a safe and healthy environment for employees and compliance with regulatory requirements.
2) Scope
This SOP applies to all manufacturing areas, including production floors, storage rooms, and utility areas, where indoor air quality must be monitored and maintained.
3) Responsibilities
- EHS Manager: Oversee the implementation of IAQ monitoring and ensure compliance with air quality standards.
- Monitoring Team: Conduct air quality assessments, document findings, and recommend corrective actions.
- Maintenance Team: Ensure proper functioning of ventilation systems and air quality equipment.
- Employees: Report air quality concerns and adhere to safety protocols in the workplace.
4) Procedure
4.1 Planning Air Quality Monitoring
- Identify Monitoring Areas:
- Focus on areas with high potential for air contamination, such as production lines, chemical storage, and HVAC systems.
- Define Monitoring Parameters:
- Measure key parameters such as particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, and humidity.
- Establish Frequency:
- Conduct monitoring monthly, quarterly, or as required by regulations or operational needs.
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4.2 Conducting Air Quality Monitoring
- Use Approved Instruments:
- Utilize calibrated air quality monitors or sensors
to collect accurate data.
Measure Air Quality:
Document Observations:
Analyze Results:
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- Record readings for all parameters at designated locations and times during regular operations.
- Log air quality data, including date, time, location, and parameter readings, in the Air Quality Monitoring Log (Annexure 1).
- Compare recorded values with permissible limits defined by local regulations or internal standards.
4.3 Addressing Non-Compliance
- Identify Sources of Contamination:
- Trace elevated levels of pollutants to specific processes, equipment, or materials.
- Implement Corrective Actions:
- Enhance ventilation, repair faulty equipment, or adjust processes to reduce air contamination.
- Monitor Post-Implementation:
- Conduct follow-up monitoring to confirm the effectiveness of corrective measures.
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4.4 Maintenance of Air Quality Systems
- Inspect Ventilation Systems:
- Perform regular inspections and maintenance of HVAC systems, filters, and exhausts to ensure optimal performance.
- Clean Air Filters:
- Replace or clean air filters periodically to maintain air circulation and quality.
- Calibrate Monitoring Equipment:
- Ensure all air quality monitoring devices are calibrated as per manufacturer guidelines.
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4.5 Training and Awareness
- Provide Employee Training:
- Educate employees on the importance of indoor air quality and their role in maintaining it.
- Promote Reporting:
- Encourage employees to report unusual odors, visible emissions, or discomfort in the workplace.
- Display IAQ Information:
- Share air quality results and corrective actions through dashboards or internal communications.
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4.6 Documentation and Reporting
- Maintain Records:
- Keep monitoring logs, maintenance records, and corrective action reports for audits and compliance purposes.
- Prepare IAQ Reports:
- Compile monthly or quarterly IAQ reports summarizing data trends and non-compliance resolutions (Annexure 2).
- Submit Reports to Authorities:
- Provide reports to regulatory agencies during inspections or as required by permits.
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5) Abbreviations, if any
- IAQ: Indoor Air Quality
- HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
- PM: Particulate Matter
- VOC: Volatile Organic Compounds
6) Documents, if any
- Air Quality Monitoring Log
- Corrective Action Reports
- Monthly/Quarterly IAQ Reports
7) Reference, if any
- ASHRAE Standards for Indoor Air Quality
- ISO 14644-1 Cleanroom Standards
- Local Air Quality Regulations
8) SOP Version
Version: 1.0
Annexure
Template 1: Air Quality Monitoring Log
Date | Location | Parameter | Reading | Permissible Limit | Comments |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DD/MM/YYYY | Production Area | PM2.5 | 35 µg/m³ | 50 µg/m³ | Within limit |
Template 2: IAQ Report
Month | Average PM2.5 | Average VOC | Non-Compliance Areas | Corrective Actions |
---|---|---|---|---|
January 2024 | 40 µg/m³ | 0.1 ppm | Storage Area | Improved Ventilation |