Over recent years, the pharma industry has witnessed increased demand for pharma products, especially biologics and vaccines. The main reason for this surge is the heavy investment in the field of pharma R&D, which is increasing the efficiency and efficacy of existing drugs. It facilitates the discovery of new medicines that can solve modern-day health issues.
The increased demand for pharm drugs calls for extensive arrangements that allow the pharma manufacturer's continuous supply of Pharma products to its user. It can include a number of steps, such as efficient sourcing, an increase in quality testing facilities, and, most importantly, maintenance.
What is equipment maintenance?
Equipment maintenance is a process or activity that keeps equipment in running condition with all of its quality attributes and requirements. The main aim of maintenance is to prevent a breakdown in the equipment and continuously produce the required product, whatever the circumstances.
The equipment maintenance can be done on demand, i.e., when there is a fault or breakdown, or it can be planned for later maintenance. Whatever the form, maybe its main purpose is to keep running the equipment.
Like other industries, maintenance in the pharmaceutical industry is an integral part of business and requires dedicated resources, expertise, and skills.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, maintenance is also a requirement by regulatory and standardization bodies that must be properly performed and documented and appropriate records be prepared and kept. Because these bodies review these activities during their routine inspection and inspect documentation and records as proof
What are the personal requirements for conducting maintenance?
Maintenance is generally carried out by skilled personnel responsible for dealing with all equipment-related problems. For this purpose, the maintenance personnel must contain qualities that can include but are not limited to the following.
Degree or a diploma
Maintenance personnel must have a college degree or a diploma in their relevant field, such as mechanical, electrical electronics, or refrigeration, from an approved or accredited college and university. They must possess basic theoretical knowledge in understanding equipment systems, working, and applying different troubleshooting techniques.
Experience
The experience of maintenance personnel in its field is essential for a successful maintenance activity, and they must be equipped with the necessary technical knowledge to understand machinery repair procedures. Additionally, maintenance personnel must be proficient in understanding and reading various documents, such as diagrams, maintenance procedures, and alarm codes.
Problem solver
Problem-solving is the ability to solve different complex situations and react efficiently. Because during maintenance, a critical problem can occur that requires a high degree of problem-solving techniques. This is in addition to technical expertise, which is developed over a period of time.
Problem-solving skills enables personnel to handle situation beyond their control and concludes a wise decision.
Documentation and record-keeping
Documentation and record keeping are necessary and critical in Pharma equipment maintenance. Because regulatory bodies inspect these records as a part of their regulatory requirement. Additionally, record-keeping helps improve equipment performance by providing historical faults, machine behavior, and working trends.
The maintenance personnel must be able to handle all the documentation and understand how to complete the records. The maintenance department must arrange dedicated resources for documentation, such as storage, personal expertise, and tools.
Types of equipment maintenance
The list discusses some standard maintenance in the pharmaceutical industry.
Corrective maintenance
Corrective maintenance is performed to rectify problems that occur in equipment. In other words, it is performed on demand and when required. The need for corrective maintenance can rise ...
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