In the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, research, and related industries, the creation and maintenance of sterile zones are crucial to guarantee the quality, safety, and efficacy of products. These controlled spaces must meet specific requirements to eliminate the presence of microorganisms and contaminants.
What is a sterile zone?
A sterile zone is a closed and controlled area where the presence of microorganisms and particles in the air and on surfaces is minimized to the maximum extent possible.
What are the essential requirements for a sterile zone?
1. Design and construction:
- • Construction materials: The materials used in the construction of a cleanroom must be non-contaminating, easy to clean, and corrosion-resistant. The design should minimize joints, cracks, and corners where contaminants can accumulate.
- • Airflow design: The design of the ventilation system is crucial to control the quantity and type of particles in the air. A unidirectional airflow must be created to prevent cross-contamination. The air distribution must ensure uniform and laminar flow.
- • Differential pressure The pressure in the cleanroom must be higher than the pressure in the surrounding environment to prevent the entry of contaminants.
- • Environmental control: Parameters such as temperature, humidity, and lighting must be controlled to maintain an environment suitable for the process to be carried out.
2. Environmental control:
- • Temperature, humidity, and pressure must be maintained within specific ranges.
- • Constant air filtration must be carried out to remove particles and microorganisms (HEPA and ULPA filters).
- • The presence of harmful gases must be controlled (ventilation systems, adsorbents).
3. Equipment:
- • Process equipment: The equipment used in the cleanroom must be designed and manufactured to minimize particle generation.
- • Furniture: Furniture must be easy to clean and should not generate particles.
- • Clothing: Personnel working in the cleanroom must wear specific clothing and footwear to prevent contamination.
4. Monitoring and control:
- • Regular monitoring tests must be carried out to verify compliance with environmental parameters and the absence of contaminants (particles, microorganisms).
- • Monitoring data must be documented and archived properly.
- • Corrective action procedures must be implemented in case of deviations from the established parameters.
5. Qualification and maintenance:
- • Qualification: The cleanroom must be qualified to demonstrate that it meets the established requirements.
- • Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the cleanroom, equipment, and environmental control systems must be carried out.
6. Protocols and procedures:
- • Cleaning and disinfection protocols: Protocols must be established for the regular cleaning and disinfection of the cleanroom and equipment.
- • Appropriate and compatible cleaning and disinfection products must be used with the materials of the area.
- • Personnel must be trained in the appropriate and specific cleaning and disinfection techniques for cleanrooms.
- • Strict regular cleaning and disinfection protocols (dry and wet cleaning, disinfection with appropriate products).
- • Work procedures, access and personnel control: Specific work procedures must be developed for each activity carried out in the cleanroom.
- • Personnel must wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the sterile area (gowns, masks, gloves, hats).
- • Access to the area must be restricted to authorized personnel only (access control, access protocols).
- • Strict control of the entry and exit of materials must be carried out (packaging, disinfection).
- • Personnel training: Personnel must be trained in work procedures and the importance of maintaining the cleanroom.
Why are these cleanroom requirements so important?
• They protect the integrity of products: Sterile zones eliminate the risk of contamination by microorganisms and particles, which is crucial for products such as medicines, cosmetics, and medical implants.
• They comply with regulations: Health authorities around the world demand compliance with strict quality standards for the manufacture of life science products. Sterile zones are essential to comply with these regulations.
• They guarantee consumer safety: Product contamination in these industries can have serious consequences for consumer health. Sterile zones help prevent these risks. Sterile zones help prevent these risks.
What can we help you with?
It is important to note that the construction of a cleanroom or sterile zone is a complex process that requires the participation of qualified professionals. At Albian Group, we are experts in the design, manufacture, construction, equipment, and maintenance of sterile zones. We offer customized solutions to meet the specific needs of each client, ensuring compliance with the highest quality and safety standards.
Contact us today and discover how we can help you create and maintain an impeccable sterile zone.
