Microbial And Biological Decontamination Of Equipment Brings Peace Of Mind

By Matt Hicks, Federal Equipment Company

The ramifications of an adverse biological occurrence are higher in the pharmaceutical industry than in any other. Cross contamination has unintended consequences of product recalls, regulatory non-compliance, ruined brand reputation and, in extreme cases, even death.

To keep pace with an aging population, an increase in chronic and infectious diseases, and the ever-growing need to comply with various government regulations, the pharmaceutical industry is investing more heavily in processing equipment. For many companies, purchasing used manufacturing equipment presents an excellent opportunity to implement necessary technology in a more cost-effective manner and with shorter lead times (it can sometimes take upwards of a year to manufacture new equipment).

Customers purchasing used equipment need complete assurance that the machinery presents no risk of cross contamination. Conducting microbial testing and biological decontamination of used equipment — before it is placed into service — offers peace of mind to customers who are worried about bringing an outside system into existing aseptic or controlled manufacturing conditions.