Part 5: A deep dive into the process for cold chain packaging testing, selection, and implementation
Let’s wrap up my blog series on pharma/bio cold chain packaging development in this post, which stresses both the implementation stage and staff training. This occurs after final qualification testing.
At this point, much time, energy, money, and science has been invested into the new cold chain package. The client’s packing/shipping staff must be well trained on the protocol for the new package.
Vital training includes:
· Conditioning of product, package, and coolant
o Product must be at the proper temperature.
o Package components (including foam, corrugated, dunnage, etc.) must be at the proper temperature.
o Coolant must be chilled or frozen properly.
· Position of product, coolant, and other packaging components
o Staff must follow the packing diagram showing all packaging position components. The science behind the package only works to protect the pharma/bio product when packed as tested and qualified.
· Adherence to packing timeframe
o As an example, 48-hour packages must ship Monday through Wednesday to deliver by Friday.
o Packing may be restricted to a specific time of day to match qualification testing requirements.
· Seasonal packing variations
o Qualified packages may have seasonal packing protocols with differing requirements for conditioning, packing, components, timing, etc.
o As seasons and/or ambient weather conditions change, the packing protocols must follow suit.
In summary, a proven qualified cold chain package, processed by well-trained staff, following a strict packaging protocol will result in properly protected pharma/bio materials vital to human and animal health.
Contact me to discuss your temperature-sensitive pharma/bio material needs! We offer proven protection.
Please watch for next month’s blog where I will continue our conversation with more facts, figures, and good news about EPS foam!
Greg Montgomery
gmontgomery@integritemp.com