Standard Operating Procedure for Maintenance of Cooling Towers

1) Purpose

The purpose of this SOP is to establish guidelines for the maintenance and operation of cooling towers in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities to ensure efficient heat dissipation and water conservation.

2) Scope

This SOP applies to all cooling towers used for heat dissipation within the facility premises.

3) Responsibilities

The Facilities Management Department is responsible for implementing and adhering to this SOP. The Cooling Tower Technician is responsible for the maintenance and operation of cooling towers.

4) Procedure

1. Preventive Maintenance Schedule
   1. Develop a preventive maintenance schedule for cooling towers based on manufacturer recommendations and operational requirements.
   2. Inspect and clean cooling tower components regularly, including fan blades, drift eliminators, and water distribution system.
2. Cleaning and Disinfection Procedures
   1. Follow standard operating procedures for cleaning and disinfecting cooling towers to prevent biofilm formation and microbial growth.
   2. Use approved biocides and chemicals as per manufacturer instructions and regulatory guidelines.
3. Water Treatment and Testing
   1. Implement water treatment programs to control scale, corrosion, and microbial contamination in cooling tower water.
   2. Regularly test cooling tower water for pH levels, conductivity, and microbial counts.
4. Performance Monitoring
   1. Monitor cooling tower performance parameters such as water flow rate, temperature differentials, and fan operation.
   2. Adjust operational parameters as necessary to optimize cooling tower efficiency.
5. Documentation and Reporting
   1. Maintain accurate records of cooling tower inspections, maintenance activities, water treatment, and testing results.
   2. Document any incidents, repairs, or adjustments made to the cooling tower system.

5) Abbreviations, if any

SOP: Standard Operating Procedure

6) Documents, if any

Preventive Maintenance Schedule, Cooling Tower Inspection Reports, Cleaning and Disinfection Records, Water Treatment Logs

7) Reference, if any

Cooling Technology Institute (CTI) guidelines for cooling tower maintenance, manufacturer’s recommendations for cooling tower operation, and regulatory requirements for water treatment in cooling systems.

8) SOP Version

Version 1.0