Maintenance of Desiccator; Purpose :
Maintenance of Desiccator; The purpose of this procedure is to describe the maintenance (handling and cleaning) of desiccator.
Scope :
This procedure is applicable for all desiccators in the quality control laboratory of XX Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Definitions / Abbreviation:
Desiccant canister: A container with hygroscopic substance which induces or sustains a state of dryness in its area.
Responsibilities:
Officer/ Executive, QC
[][] To follow the instructions of this procedure correctly.
Sr. Executive, QC
[][] To ensure that SOP is followed correctly.
Manager, Quality Control
[][] To ensure that this procedure is kept up to date.
[][] To ensure appropriate personnel from the section are trained on this procedure.
[][] To confirm that SOP is technically sound and reflects the required working practices.
Manager, Quality Assurance
[][]Approval of the SOP.
[][]To ensure the overall implementation of the SOP.
Procedure:
Precaution(s):
[][]Do not touch hot samples, while transferring them from Oven/Muffle furnace to desiccator.
Operation
[][]Place about 200 g of silica (desiccant) and/or dessicant canister into the bottom of the desiccator.
[][]Set the sample platform (desiccator plate) to the desiccator.
[][]Apply a smear of grease in between lid & desiccator rim to avoid sticking of lid with the dessicator.
[][]Close the lid properly.
[][]Open the lid to retain the sample to be analyzed and close the lid again.
[][]Remove the sample after required period of time.
Cleaning
[][]Rub the desiccator, sample platform (desiccator plate) and lid with a dry, clean cloth.
[][]Laboratory Attendant will collect the silica (desiccant) to activate (in the oven at about 105°C) and then replace it to the desiccator once in a week or even more frequently when blue color of desiccant turns purple/pink.
[][]Fill up the logbook for desiccant change (as per Annexure-I).
[][]Officer/Executive, QC will check the logbook for proper condition of desiccant or the desiccant change.
Annexure:
Annexure-I: Logbook for desiccant change of desiccator.