Editor’s comment: More than buzz words

By Murielle Gonzalez | Published: 4-Sep-2019

It’s time to go beyond the gimmick as only companies aligned with the forefront of technology will capitalise on the advantages they bring

“I was a bit disappointed not to see more guidance on the use of rapid microbiological methods in the new Annex 1, as with the impending explosion of cell and gene therapies, the demand for them will rise enormously.” The words of Andrew Davies (pictured above), Managing Director of biotech start-up Microgenetics, underpin prospects for the use of new and pragmatical approaches to environmental monitoring (EM).

Those of you working in companies manufacturing in controlled environments and cleanrooms appreciate that real-time monitoring solutions are paramount to anticipate risks of contamination at any production stage.

But what difference would it make to have real-time analysis of the EM data? What new technologies are now available or in the works that could help manufacturers control bioburden and prevent spoilage of product? Davies’ interview dives into these and other core challenges that many pharmaceutical companies face every day— cumbersome validation processes, the short shelf life of medicines, you name it—and explains why artificial intelligence and machine learning are tools worth using.

Cleanzone Middle East takes place this month in Abu Dhabi ahead of the European event in Frankfurt, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see showcases of the use of virtual reality (VR) goggles for training cleaning and disinfection routines. It’s time to go beyond the gimmick as only companies aligned with the forefront of technology will capitalise on the advantages they bring.

N.B. This article is featured in the September 2019 issue of Cleanroom Technology. Subscribe today and get your print copy!

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