SOP For Operation, Cleaning and Maintenance of Fogger and Fogging of Microbiology Testing Areas

SOP For Operation, Cleaning and Maintenance of Fogger and Fogging of Microbiology Testing Areas

1.0 Objective

1.1 To establish a procedure for the operation, cleaning, and maintenance of the fogger and for carrying out fogging activities in Microbiology Testing Areas to ensure effective environmental decontamination.

2.0 Scope

2.1 This SOP is applicable to the operation, cleaning, maintenance of the fogger, and fogging of all designated areas within the Microbiology Laboratory.

3.0 Responsibility

3.1 Microbiologist or above – Microbiology Laboratory:

• To perform fogging, cleaning, and maintenance activities as per this SOP.

• To ensure proper documentation of activities.

3.2 Head – Microbiology Section / Nominee:

• To ensure implementation and compliance with this SOP.

4.0 Accountability

4.1 Head – Quality Control / Nominee:

• To ensure overall compliance with this SOP.

5.0 Procedure

5.1 Operation of Fogger

5.1.1 Switch OFF the AHU (Air Handling Unit) before initiating fogging.

5.1.2 Ensure that the room is completely closed, with all vents and openings sealed. The area shall be thoroughly cleaned prior to fogging.

5.1.3 Prepare 20% Virosil solution as per Table–I and pour the required quantity into the fogger tank using the funnel provided.

5.1.4 Place the fogger in one corner of the room at a height of approximately 2 feet. Adjust the nozzle angle to 45° using the adjustment knobs.

5.1.5 Set the timer of the fogger according to the total prepared volume (Refer Table–I).

5.1.6 Connect the electrical cord to the power supply and switch ON the mains.

5.1.7 Exit the room immediately after starting the fogger and close the door completely. Do not enter the room for a minimum of 40 minutes after completion of fogging.

5.1.8 Switch ON the AHU only after completion of the 40-minute hold time.

5.1.9 Display the label “Area Under Fogging” at the entrance.

5.1.10 Record all details in the Fogging Record (Annexure–01).

5.2 Cleaning and Maintenance of Fogger

5.2.1 After every fogging operation, remove the tank from the blower and clean it thoroughly with Purified Water.

5.2.2 Clean the nozzle hole using a suitable cleaning pin after each operation to prevent blockage.

5.2.3 Wash the suction air filter after each fogging operation, dry it completely, and reinstall it properly.

5.2.4 Wipe the external body of the fogger using a clean, dry cloth.

5.2.5 Clean the nozzle opening after each use to ensure uniform spray performance.

5.2.6 Do not touch the blower head during operation as it becomes hot.

5.2.7 After every fogging, add Purified Water to the tank and run the machine for approximately 2 minutes to flush internal tubes and nozzle to prevent clogging.

5.2.8 Record maintenance and cleaning details in the Fogging Record (Annexure–01).

5.3 Frequency

5.3.1 Fogging shall be performed once every week at the end of working hours or as per requirement.

5.4 Fogging of Microbiology Testing Areas

5.4.1 Preparation of Fogging Solution

Prepare the fogging solution as specified in Table–I.

5.4.2 Operation

Operate the fogger as described in Sections 5.1.1 to 5.1.10.

5.4.3 Sequence of Fogging

Fogging shall be performed in the following sequence:

A. Sterility Testing Area

• Change Room – 2

• Change Room – 3

• Sterile Buffer Room

• Sterility Testing Room

• Sterility Return Buffer

• Return Air Lock

• Change Room – 1

B. MLT Area

• Sub-culture Room

• MLT Testing Room

• MLT Air Lock

• MLT Change Room

C. Media Decontamination Area

• Media Preparation Room

• Media Decontamination Room

• Sterilization Area and Air Lock

Table – I: Dilution and Use Volume of Virosil

6.0 List of Annexures

• Annexure – 01: Fogging Record

• Annexure – 02: Label for “Area Under Fogging

SOP on Out of Specification (OOS) Results in Microbiology Laboratory