UV Meter Calibration Procedure
Purpose
The purpose of this Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is to establish the procedures for the calibration of UV meters used in photostability studies and other UV light intensity measurements. Proper calibration ensures accurate and reliable readings.
Scope
This SOP applies to all UV meters used for measuring ultraviolet light intensity within the facility.
Responsibilities
- Stability Manager: Oversee the calibration process and ensure compliance with this SOP.
- Calibration Technician: Perform the calibration of UV meters and document the results.
- Quality Assurance (QA) Team: Review and approve calibration records and reports.
Procedure
- Preparation:
- Ensure that the UV meter is clean and in good working condition.
- Gather all necessary calibration
equipment, including a certified UV light source with a known intensity.
Verify that the calibration equipment is within its calibration due date and properly certified.
Familiarize yourself with the UV meter’s user manual and calibration procedures.
Initial Check:
Calibration Process:
Adjustment (if necessary):
Verification and Documentation:
Post-Calibration:
Record Keeping:
- Turn on the UV meter and allow it to stabilize according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check the battery level and replace if necessary.
- Ensure that the sensor is clean and free from any obstructions.
- Place the UV meter’s sensor at a specified distance from the certified UV light source.
- Activate the certified UV light source and allow it to reach a stable output.
- Record the UV light intensity reading displayed by the UV meter.
- Compare the UV meter reading with the known intensity of the certified UV light source.
- If the reading is within the acceptable tolerance range, the UV meter is considered calibrated. If not, adjust the UV meter according to the manufacturer’s instructions and repeat the measurement.
- Refer to the UV meter’s user manual for adjustment procedures.
- Make the necessary adjustments to bring the UV meter readings within the acceptable tolerance range.
- Repeat the calibration process to verify accuracy after adjustments.
- Record all calibration data, including:
- Date of calibration
- Calibration equipment used
- UV light intensity readings before and after adjustment (if any)
- Signatures of the personnel performing and reviewing the calibration
- Submit the calibration records to the Stability Manager and QA Team for review and approval.
- Turn off the UV meter and store it in a clean, dry place.
- Ensure that the UV meter is stored in a protective case to avoid damage.
- Report any deviations or issues encountered during calibration to the Stability Manager and QA Team.
- Maintain all calibration records, including reports and certificates of calibration equipment, in a centralized location for easy access and review.
- Ensure electronic data is backed up regularly and securely stored.
- Archive records according to the facility’s document retention policy and regulatory requirements.
Abbreviations Used
- QA: Quality Assurance
- SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
- UV: Ultraviolet
Documents
- Calibration Records
- Calibration Equipment Certificates
- Calibration Reports
References
- UV Meter User Manual
- Manufacturer’s Calibration Guidelines
SOP Version
Version 1.0 – Effective Date: [Insert Date]