In Process Control of Headspace Oxygen

Rapid non-destructive headspace oxygen analysis

The need to monitor headspace oxygen levels in parenteral containers arises from the requirement to ensure the stability and potency of oxygen-sensitive product. Besides a loss of efficacy and reduction in shelf life, exposure of such products to oxygen can result in product discoloration, changes in dissolution rate and profile, and even toxicity or other pharmacological properties associated with negative side effects. During the development of an oxygen-sensitive product, studies are performed that investigate the formulation’s interaction with oxygen. End-of-shelf-life stability studies verify that the product indeed retains efficacy under specified headspace oxygen levels. Such studies allow for the specification of appropriate initial headspace oxygen levels in the primary packaging. Finally, headspace oxygen levels are often monitored during the filling process as an in-process control (IPC) of the purging system used to bring headspace oxygen levels below the required specification.

Unfortunately, existing analytical methods for oxygen analysis in the headspace of parenteral containers are slow and/or destructive. This results in headspace oxygen analysis which is both time and resource intensive. Conventional destructive techniques, such as electrochemical methods or gas chromatography, are difficult to implement at- or in-line for immediate feedback about the filling process. The destructive nature of the measurement also means that these conventional methods cannot be utilized for 100% inspection of product. Once the septum of the container is pierced to take a headspace sample, container integrity is compromised. Product is therefore destroyed and costs are incurred as a result of the destruction and disposal of analyzed samples.

LIGHTHOUSE headspace oxygen analyzer platforms for rapid non-destructive headspace analysis can help streamline the monitoring of purge performance on the filling line. The automated VISTA Headspace Oxygen Inspection Machine enables automated 100% inspection of headspace oxygen levels in sealed parenteral containers. The benchtop FMS-Oxygen Headspace Analyzer can be implemented at-line and enables periodic rapid non-destructive inspection of oxygen levels in samples taken from the filling line.  The robustness and easy operation of the platforms allow for in- or at-line implementation in the Production environment. The rapid non-destructive nature of the measurement allows for immediate feedback to the filling process and there is no disposal of destroyed product.

Charlottesville Job Postings

We are always accepting resumes. You can find our existing job postings below.

 

JOB CODE: Lab Manager              

EFFECTIVE DATE: August 1, 2016                                                   

Position PURPOSE:

The Lab Manager will be responsible for managing the day to day operations of the Lighthouse measurement services laboratory.  Coordinate daily contract projects with the laboratory staff, managing, maintaining and enhancing the laboratory quality system, working with senior management to develop the measurement services business.  

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Coordinate measurement services, feasibility and other laboratory projects

· Manage laboratory staff (conduct performance evaluations, mentor, coach, and train lab staff)

  • Review lab reports and documents for customer projects

· Write, maintain and control lab SOPs

· Participate in technical writing projects

· Perform experimental investigations on customer samples using Lighthouse spectrometers

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

· Reports to President

· Interacts with Technical Support Representative, Research Scientist, Laboratory Technician, Application Engineer

CONTACTS:

· Internal: Company management and employees

· External: Customers

SUCCESS FACTORS:

  • Understand analytical methods for sterile pharmaceutical applications including container closure integrity, moisture analysis and oxygen analysis
  • Good laboratory and experimental practices
  • Strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills
  • Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills
  • Great attention to detail
  • Thorough and organized with time-management skills and the ability to prioritize
  • Perform well under pressure and the ability to meet deadlines
  • Integrity and honesty

 

REQUIREMENTS:

  • BS, MS or PhD Physical or Life Sciences

· 4+ years experience

  • Regulated laboratory experience


* Required field

 

 

 

LIGHTHOUSE  ©  2011