Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Here’s a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Cleaning and Maintenance of a Fogger, typically used in pharmaceutical manufacturing for disinfection purposes.

1. Purpose

To lay down a procedure for the proper cleaning and maintenance of the fogging machine (fogger) used for area disinfection to ensure consistent performance and prevent contamination.

2. Scope

This SOP applies to all foggers used for disinfection in manufacturing, dispensing, or packing areas within the facility.

3. Responsibility

• Production/Housekeeping Operator: Perform cleaning and routine maintenance.

• Engineering Department: Preventive maintenance and repairs.

• Quality Assurance (QA): Verification and compliance checks.

4. Definitions

• Fogger: A device that aerosolizes disinfectant into fine particles for airborne or surface disinfection.

• Disinfectant Solution: Approved chemical solution used for sanitizing manufacturing areas.

5. Materials and Equipment Required

• Clean lint-free cloth

• Potable water

• Approved disinfectant solution (e.g., Hydrogen Peroxide, IPA)

• Detergent solution (if required)

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Soft brush

• Maintenance checklist/logbook

6. Procedure

6.1 Cleaning Procedure (After Each Use or Daily)

1. Switch off and unplug the fogger before starting cleaning.

2. Empty the disinfectant tank and discard remaining solution as per disposal SOP.

3. Rinse the tank thoroughly with potable water.

4. Wipe external surfaces of the fogger with a lint-free cloth soaked in 70% IPA.

5. Clean the nozzle and outlet with a soft brush and rinse with water to prevent clogging.

6. Dry the equipment with a clean, dry lint-free cloth or allow to air-dry.

7. Reassemble the parts properly and store the fogger in a designated clean area.

6.2 Weekly Maintenance

1. Check for any nozzle blockages or discoloration.

2. Inspect the power cable and plug for damage.

3. Ensure that the disinfectant flow is uniform and the mist is fine.

4. Clean internal components (if accessible) using appropriate tools and safety measures.

5. Record all observations and actions in the Maintenance Logbook.

6.3 Preventive Maintenance (Monthly / As per Schedule)

• Conducted by Engineering or trained personnel.

• Includes:

  • Checking motor function and airflow.

  • Calibration or setting adjustments (if applicable).

  • Lubrication of mechanical parts (if specified by manufacturer).

  • Replacing any worn-out parts or filters.

• Maintain records in the Preventive Maintenance Register.

7. Precautions

• Always wear PPE (gloves, goggles, mask) while handling disinfectants.

• Never operate the fogger with an empty tank.

• Do not immerse electrical components in water.

• Ensure good ventilation in the area during and after fogging.

• Use only approved disinfectants as per SOP.

8. Documentation

• Cleaning Logbook

• Maintenance Checklist

• Preventive Maintenance Register

• Disinfectant Usage Log

9. Abbreviations

• SOP – Standard Operating Procedure

• PPE – Personal Protective Equipment

• IPA – Isopropyl Alcohol

• QA – Quality Assurance

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