Understanding Airlocks for cGMP Facilities

The use of airlocks is a principle that is well-established in the design of cGMP facilities. Despite the apparent simplicity of inserting small rooms into the plan of a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility, there is confusion regarding their proper use and definition. Airlock seems like a simple enough term, but airlocks have several distinct functions that, although closely related, are freely mixed and often cause confusion. This article looks at these functions and definitions.

This is the introduction to an interesting article by Eric Bohn for Pharmaceutical Technology.

Airlocks, gowning rooms, and transition spaces have different uses and should be considered separately.

The article can be accessed here.

Posted by Dr. Tim Sandle