Temperature Mapping
Temperature Mapping. Temperature Mapping is performed to determine if a storage area can maintain temperature within defined limits (Fridges, Freezers, Rooms, Warehouses and Incubators etc.). Sensors are distributed throughout the unit/room in pre-defined locations to confirm it performs within pre-defined set points.
Warehouse - Method
A specified number of loggers are placed in the warehouse in pre-determined critical mapping points. The temperature mapping is typically performed over a minimum period of 48 hours. As an example, the method used for a warehouse validation should take the
following points into consideration:
- Critical mapping points to include outside environment and unconditioned spaces near the measured area
- Sample rates should be at intervals of every 30 minutes
- In large areas or spaces it may be necessary to divide the total area in sections and position the specified amount of loggers/sensors in an ‘X’ pattern
- The data from the mapping activities may be evaluated for conformity or gap analysis
- All events and movements, including those that are inherent to warehouse operations, should be recorded
- All test results, observations, evaluations and recommendations should be documented
The frequency of the temperature mapping is a minimum of at least once a year. Additional temperature mapping may be required for changes such as conditions mentioned below:
- Change of temperature settings
- Changes made to the storage capacity
- New monitoring system
- New equipment installed that may impact the temperature and relative humidity
- If the continuous temperature mapping activities are interrupted (e.g. due to power failures or any event that may impair the continuous data collection)
- Extreme weather changes
- Warehousing standards or quality management system changes
- Any other changes made that could affect temperature/humidity