In sectors such as the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, cosmetics and food production, cleaning is not only about hygiene, but also about compliance with regulations, safety and quality.
This requires GMP cleaning. It ensures that every surface, every tool and every device meets the highest standards of cleanliness to prevent contamination and maintain product integrity.
What is GMP cleaning?
GMP cleaning refers to cleaning processes that are carried out in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
These international regulations, such as the EU GMP Guidelines Annex 15, ensure that products are consistently manufactured and controlled in accordance with quality requirements.
Simply put, GMP cleaning is about cleaning that is validated, documented and verifiable.
The benefits of GMP cleaning
Effective cleaning is crucial for preventing:
- Cross-contamination between different products
- Microbial contamination in sterile environments
- Product degradation due to residue accumulation
- Non-compliance with regulations, which can lead to costly recalls or closures
In a GMP environment, cleaning is not an option, but an essential part of the quality control process.
GMP cleaning procedure
Standard GMP cleaning follows a series of well-documented steps designed to ensure control:
- Preparation: Inspection of the surfaces/parts to be cleaned and drawing up a plan of action.
- Cleaning: Clean with validated cleaning agents or solvents (manually or using cleaning methods such as fogging).
- Inspection: Checking cleanliness – visually and, if necessary, by means of swab or rinse tests.
- Documentation: Record all details, including who cleaned, when, and with what resources.
Every cleaning activity must be traceable and verifiable. That is a core principle of GMP.
Certificates
In GMP environments, cleaning certificates can mean two different things:
- Operational cleaning certificate: A document confirming that a specific device or area has been cleaned in accordance with approved SOPs and is ready for use.
- Training certificate: Proof that staff are trained and qualified in GMP cleaning principles and procedures.
Both types of certificates are essential for maintaining compliance and traceability.
GMP cleaning by Eventi Group
GMP cleaning is more than a routine task. It is a crucial business process that underpins product safety, consumer confidence and regulatory compliance.
Does your laboratory or production facility require GMP cleaning? Call on Eventi Group. Contact us today to discuss the possibilities.
