Depyrogenation Tunnel / Dry Heat Sterilizer (Glass Bottles) – OQ Protocol

Document Number: OQ-DEP-001

Version: 1.0

Date: 2023-10-01

Prepared By: [Your Name]

Approved By: [Approver’s Name]

Operational Qualification Protocol for Depyrogenation Tunnel in Sterile Eye Drop Production

Objective: To validate the operational performance of the Depyrogenation Tunnel used for sterilizing glass containers for ophthalmic products.

Scope: This protocol applies to the Depyrogenation Tunnel situated in the Production area, used for sterilizing and depyrogenating containers for sterile eye drops and ointments.

Responsibilities:

  • Validation Team: Ensure all validation activities are performed according to the protocol.
  • Production Team: Operate the equipment as per the validated procedures.
  • Quality Assurance: Review and approve the validation documentation.

Prerequisites:

  • Completion of Installation Qualification (IQ).
  • Documentation of equipment calibration and maintenance.
  • Personnel trained on the operation of the Depyrogenation Tunnel.

Equipment Description:

The Depyrogenation Tunnel is a dry heat sterilizer designed to sterilize and depyrogenate glass bottles used in ophthalmic formulations. The critical parameters include temperature profile, belt speed, and dwell time, ensuring effective endotoxin reduction.

Test ID Procedure Acceptance Criteria Evidence
OQ-01 Temperature Mapping Temperature profile meets URS Annex15 Annex11 Temperature log report
OQ-02 Belt Speed Verification Belt speed within specified range Belt speed calibration report
OQ-03 Dwell Time Assessment Dwell time meets URS Annex15 Annex11 Dwell time log
OQ-04 Endotoxin Testing Endotoxin levels below acceptable limits Endotoxin test results

Detailed Test Cases:

Test Case OQ-01: Temperature Mapping

  • Place temperature sensors at critical points in the tunnel.
  • Run the tunnel under normal operating conditions.
  • Record temperatures at specified intervals.
  • Compare recorded data against acceptance criteria.
See also  Coding Machine (Inkjet / Laser) – OQ Protocol

Test Case OQ-02: Belt Speed Verification

  • Calibrate the belt speed using a calibrated tachometer.
  • Document the speed settings.
  • Ensure the speed is within the specified range.

Test Case OQ-03: Dwell Time Assessment

  • Measure dwell time using timers at critical points.
  • Ensure dwell time meets the specified requirements.

Test Case OQ-04: Endotoxin Testing

  • Collect samples post-sterilization.
  • Perform endotoxin testing as per validated procedures.
  • Document results and compare against acceptance criteria.

Deviations:

Any deviations from the protocol must be documented and reviewed by the Quality Assurance team. Justifications and corrective actions should be recorded.

Approvals:

By signing below, the undersigned approve this Operational Qualification Protocol.

______________________ [Validation Team Lead]

______________________ [Quality Assurance]