Live eLearning - PDA 714 Bio/Pharmaceutical Air Filtration

Filtration is the process of separating unwanted contaminants, both viable and non-viable, from fluid streams and has become the prevalent sterilization method due to the increase in bioprocess applications. The filter can be a protective unit to prolong the life of other equipment, to reduce the amount of bioburden, or to act as the last critical barrier before the product reaches the vial. The criticality of the performance of the filtration steps shall not be underestimated but require in-depth knowledge to run the filtration processes in a robust and optimal manner. This highly interactive training course is intended to provide a comprehensive understanding of pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical air filtration processes.

Topics to be addressed include:

• Filter manufacturing and construction of membranes, pre- and depth filter constructions
• Contaminant retention including mechanisms for air filtrations, e.g. sieve retentions, adsorptive sequestration, and other mechanisms
• Structural and design features of air filters
• Air filtration sizing
• Air filtration processes

The training course format will be lecture with a question and answer session following the presentation. The trainer will be available to respond to participant issues during and after the formal training sessions.

1. Appropriately select air filters for use in biotech or pharmaceutical processing steps
2. Address regulator and regulatory requirements relevant to critical and non-critical air filtration processes
3. Sterilize and integrity test filters in routine production and troubleshoot when needed
4. Review key parameters for secure and reliable filtration processes