Approval of processes and equipment 4.9.1.1e

The standard requires controlled conditions to include the approval of processes and equipment as appropriate. 

The term approval can be taken to mean certification or qualification, the difference being that certification is performed each time the equipment is repaired and qualification only when the equipment is introduced into service. The standard only refers to the term qualification in connection with special processes, but this clause does not distinguish between special and ordinary processes and equipment. However, there are two levels of approval that apply to processes and equipment initial qualification approval and periodic setting-up approval. 

All processes and equipment should be proven capable of performing the task for which they were designed and so should either be subject to qualification tests or process capability tests. There may be documentation available from the supplier of the equipment which adequately demonstrates its capability, otherwise you may need to carry out qualification and capability tests to your own satisfaction. In the process industries the plant is specially designed and so needs to be commissioned and qualified by the user. Your procedures need to provide for such activities and for records of the tests to be maintained. 

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