Warehouse Temperature Mapping
WHO & ISPE Warehouse Temperature Mapping
Expectations of regulatory bodies for warehouse temperature mapping applications
Temperature mapping exercises are required for any space allocated for the storage and handling of products with a specified labelled storage temperature. This includes freezer rooms, cold rooms, temperature-controlled storage areas, quarantine areas, warehouse spaces and receiving and loading bays.
Warehouse temperature mapping is another form of space that requires an initial validation map to identify the areas of storage in which products or goods would be most vulnerable i.e. hot/cold spots, near windows and doors, drafts, HVAC systems and more.
A mapping study establishes the temperature distribution within the zone being mapped, offering insight into various aspects of storage. The data collected provides an essential source of information to ensure that all products are correctly stored within their labelled temperature range(s).
Warehouse temperature mapping protocols are governed by WHO and ISPE, however, a mapping report is required for compliance with sector-specific authorities including GMP, FDA, UKAS, ISO etc.
Withnell Sensors are temperature and humidity specialists, we provide specialised warehouse mapping services or the right temperature mapping equipment for you to conduct your own. We help you deliver operational, regulatory and quality control requirements and follow WHO & ISPE mapping guidelines.
What is Warehouse Temperature Mapping?
Different areas in a warehouse can have varying temperatures, here's some aspects of your warehouse that are reported on during a warehouse temperature mapping report; air circulation, external walls, HVAC & cooling systems, and heat generated from equipment and instruments.
Mapping helps detect and correct these deviations, with various European countries drilling down on their warehouse storage and distribution practices as part of general storage practices, cold chain management and consumer safety.
Vaisala, one of our market-leading brands that provide state-of-the-art warehouse temperature mapping devices, offer advice on the best practices for in-house warehouse temperature mapping practices.
In the life sciences sector in particular, warehouses can be used to store blood samples, biological reagents and a range of in-process materials, from stability storage to ultra-low temperature storage, a warehouse can be mapped and equipped to manage even the most temperature-sensitive goods. It all starts with an insightful and concise warehouse temperature mapping report!
Why warehouse temperature mapping studies are necessary:
Temperature mapping studies are required for any space allocated for the storage and handling of products or biological samples with a specified labelled storage temperature. Warehouse mapping is critical in spaces without active temperature control systems.
Thermal validation provides the results needed to make decisions regarding permanent warehouse monitoring, all of which are in place to safeguard your products or samples consistently.
Studies should be conducted seasonally or following significant changes to the local environment to account for any new fluctuation risks. Reports from thermal validation studies are often requested by quality assurance departments, external auditors and sometimes even from customers too.
Situations that require a new report for warehouse temperature mapping:
Periodic Testing
Continuous remapping is recommended annually for most storage enclosures, although the temperature mapping study frequency will often be determined by the type of storage unit.
Seasonal Conditions
Larger storage areas, in particular, require seasonal or annual mappings to overcome seasonal changes. Heating systems and cooling systems can be impacted during winter and summer months.
New Storage Item
If a different product is stored or sterilised, then the characteristics/ performance of the storage unit can change and testing is required to prove that the equipment can perform to specification to the new product.
New Equipment
Mapping qualifies new critical equipment upon installation. Governing bodies for many industries require all new temperature storage areas to be mapped.
Serviced Equipment
After a storage unit is serviced, it is best practice to conduct a mapping study to requalify the unit and ensure optimal performance.
Relocated Equipment
Many temperature-controlled units like fridges and freezers are often moved around a premises. Performance can be significantly impacted so temperature mapping is a preventative measure.
The Basics of a Warehouse Mapping Study
You must conduct a mapping study to assess that your premises or facilities are built to withstand temperature changes. It is as important to conduct mapping reports annually or seasonally to ensure your chosen continuous monitoring system is capable of detecting any type of temperature change inside your facility.
Pre-Warehouse Mapping Study
Prior to mapping your warehouse, you need to ensure you know the exact conditions of the study/storage you'll be completing and the typical or expected length that samples will be stored for. You will also need good familiarity of the space itself, the size of the area, the common areas of footfall, the airflow systems and other features of the building.
During Warehouse Mapping Study
Choosing the right approved protocol and designing a test plan accordingly is where most mapping studies start, however, it's important to consider if any aspects need to be tailored to your specific space. Temperature mapping equipment can range from loggers to thermocouples, and a report as well as supplementary documentation needs to be gathered to prove compliance.
Post-Warehouse Mapping Study
Now you have a report that offers clear and concise data regarding your mapped area, you will know the acceptable temperature for safe storage and achievable constant climate for ongoing operations. This will give you the insights you need to determine the quantity and types of sensors/data loggers needed as well as the vital locations for sensor placement.
Why Choose Withnell Sensors to Conduct Your Mapping Report?
Withnell Sensors houses an extensive range of UKAS calibration equipment specifically for outsourced warehouse temperature mapping services. Our engineers can come to your space, and conduct an ISPE/WHO-designed mapping service that delivers the right support, data and advice for your ongoing monitoring.
We offer three service levels, Bronze, Silver or Gold, find out more here to discover which is right for you.
We can perform mapping on various areas, whether it's your entire warehouse or a specific space within, from chambers, storage rooms, blood banks, incubators, walk-in test chambers or cold rooms.
Want to Conduct Your Own Map?
We work with various market-leading brands to ensure we have an expansive portfolio of products to suit your warehouse temperature mapping needs. IF you're planning on mapping your space fairly regularly, purchasing your own equipment is the ideal option.
You can still speak with our engineers to determine the best product for your processes, we offer unbiased advice and guidance.
