1. Purpose
This SOP
outlines the proper use, monitoring, and maintenance of Magnehelic Differential
Pressure Gauges in conjunction with air ventilation units to ensure optimal
environmental conditions in a laboratory animal facility. The SOP ensures
compliance with facility guidelines, minimizes risks, and ensures accurate
pressure monitoring for the health and welfare of laboratory animals.
2. Scope
This procedure applies to all personnel responsible for operating and maintaining air ventilation systems and associated Magnehelic gauges in the laboratory animal facility.
3. Definitions
4. Materials and Equipment
- Magnehelic Differential
Pressure Gauges
- Calibration tools (e.g.,
manometer or manufacturer-specified equipment)
- Cleaning supplies (e.g.,
lint-free cloth, mild cleaning solution)
- Facility logbook for
recording readings
5. Responsibilities
- Facility Staff: Monitor and record
differential pressure readings regularly and report abnormalities.
- Facility Manager: Ensure proper installation,
calibration, and maintenance of Magnehelic gauges.
- Quality Control Personnel: Verify that pressure
readings align with facility standards and ensure compliance with
operational guidelines.
6. Procedure
6.1 Installation
- Install the Magnehelic gauge
in a location visible and easily accessible for monitoring.
- Ensure the gauge is mounted
on a flat surface and aligned per manufacturer’s specifications.
- Connect the high-pressure
port to the area of higher pressure and the low-pressure port to the area
of lower pressure using appropriate tubing.
- Check for secure and
leak-free connections.
6.2 Operation
- Daily Monitoring:
- Observe the gauge reading
during routine facility checks.
- Ensure that the pressure
difference falls within the acceptable range specified by the facility’s
ventilation design (e.g., +10 to +20 Pascals for positive pressure).
- Record readings in the
facility logbook, noting the date, time, and observer’s initials.
- Investigate deviations
outside the acceptable range immediately and notify the supervisor.
6.3 Calibration
- Calibrate the Magnehelic
gauge at least annually or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Disconnect the gauge and
connect it to a calibrated reference instrument (e.g., manometer).
- Compare readings at multiple
set points:
- Adjust the gauge using the
zero adjust screw if discrepancies are found.
- Document calibration
results and adjustments in the logbook.
- Reinstall the gauge and test
functionality.
6.4 Maintenance
- Clean the gauge face with a
lint-free cloth and mild cleaning solution as needed.
- Inspect tubing and
connections for wear, damage, or leaks monthly.
- Replace damaged components
immediately to prevent inaccurate readings.
7. Key Points About Magnehelic Gauges
- Applications: Commonly found in
ventilation systems, cleanrooms, air filters, and other HVAC applications.
- Measurement Type: Measures low differential
pressures.
- Benefits: Considered accurate,
reliable, and easy to use.
- Specific Uses:
- Checking filter efficiency
by monitoring pressure drop across filters.
- Monitoring fan performance
by measuring pressure differences across the fan.
- Assessing air flow in ducts
by measuring static pressure.
- Detecting blockages in
pipes by observing pressure changes.
8. Precautions
- Ensure the gauge is used
within the manufacturer’s specified pressure range to prevent damage.
- Handle the gauge carefully
to avoid mechanical shock.
- Always verify readings after
maintenance or calibration.
9. Documentation
- Maintain a log of daily
readings, calibration checks, and maintenance activities.
- Record batch numbers and
calibration tool details for traceability.
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