Laminar Air Flow (LAF) – OQ Protocol

Document Number: OQ-001

Version: 1.0

Effective Date: 2023-10-01

Reviewed By: [Name]

Approved By: [Name]

Operational Qualification Protocol for Laminar Air Flow Equipment in Biologics Production

Objective: To validate the operational performance of the Laminar Air Flow (LAF) equipment used for aseptic protection in upstream processing of biologics.

Scope: This protocol applies to the Laminar Air Flow equipment utilized in the production and cell culture areas, ensuring compliance with acceptance criteria as per URS ISO14644 Annex 1.

Responsibilities:

  • Validation Team: Execute the protocol and document results.
  • Quality Assurance: Review and approve the protocol and results.
  • Production Team: Provide access to the equipment and assist during testing.

Prerequisites:

  • All personnel involved must be trained in aseptic techniques.
  • Equipment must be properly installed and calibrated.
  • Preliminary cleaning and maintenance must be performed.

Equipment Description:

The Laminar Air Flow (LAF) system is designed to provide a sterile environment by filtering air through HEPA filters, ensuring unidirectional airflow to protect products from contamination during the production and cell culture processes.

Test ID Procedure Acceptance Evidence
OQ-001-01 Measure air velocity at various points within the LAF. Air velocity must be within 0.45 – 0.65 m/s. Velocity measurement report.
OQ-001-02 Conduct HEPA integrity smoke study. No leaks or contamination observed. Smoke study observation report.

Detailed Test Cases:

Test Case 1: Air Velocity Measurement

Objective: To ensure that the air velocity is within the specified range for effective aseptic protection.

See also  Jet Mill / Micronizer – PQ Protocol

Method: Use a calibrated anemometer to measure air velocity at multiple points in the LAF. Record the values.

Acceptance Criteria: Air velocity must be between 0.45 m/s and 0.65 m/s.

Test Case 2: HEPA Integrity Smoke Study

Objective: To confirm the integrity of the HEPA filters and the absence of contamination.

Method: Introduce smoke into the LAF and observe for any leaks or contamination.

Acceptance Criteria: No leaks or contamination must be observed during the smoke study.

Deviations:

Any deviations from the acceptance criteria must be documented and investigated. A corrective action plan should be developed to address any issues identified during testing.

Approvals:

__________________________
Validation Team Lead

__________________________
Quality Assurance Manager