www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I June 2024 43
Contributor
TO BMS OR NOT TO BMS ?
By Ryan Rennie , from the Spada-Rennie Group
The case for manual monitoring of HVAC systems in pharmaceutical facilities .
When it comes to pharmaceutical facility management , an ongoing debate centres as to whether to invest in a sophisticated Building Management System ( BMS ) for HVAC control or rely on manual monitoring methods . This article reviews the advantages of manual monitoring for HVAC systems in pharmaceutical facilities , juxtaposed with the challenges posed by BMS implementation .
It is paramount to grasp the pivotal role HVAC systems play in pharmaceutical facilities . These systems are the linchpin of maintaining precise environmental conditions crucial for ensuring product quality , adhering to regulatory standards , and safeguarding patient safety .
THE CASE FOR MANUAL MONITORING
• Cost considerations : The implementation of a comprehensive BMS system often entails significant upfront costs , which is particularly daunting for smaller pharmaceutical facilities with constrained budgets . Conversely , manual monitoring methods , though labourintensive , can yield cost efficiencies over the long haul .
• Flexibility and control : Manual monitoring empowers facility managers with direct oversight and control over HVAC systems . This hands-on approach facilitates real-time adjustments based on observations , ensuring adaptability to evolving requirements and circumstances .
• Reliability : While BMS systems promise automation and remote monitoring capabilities , they are not immune to technical glitches and malfunctions . Manual monitoring serves as a reliable fallback in the event of system downtime or BMS failures , minimising disruptions to critical operations .
Ryan Rennie , from the Spada- Rennie Group .
CHALLENGES OF BMS SYSTEMS
• Skills intensive : The implementation and upkeep of a BMS system necessitates trained personnel dedicated to
Supplied by Ryan Rennie the task , posing challenges in regions grappling with skills shortages or unreliable human resources .
• Potential for human error : Despite automation features , BMS systems are susceptible to human error , leading to suboptimal performance or regulatory compliance issues . Incorrect programming or data misinterpretation can compromise system efficacy .
• Complexity and scalability : BMS systems , especially in larger pharmaceutical facilities with diverse HVAC requirements , present complexities in implementation and maintenance . Ensuring scalability to accommodate expansion or operational changes can be daunting .
• Frustration in managing alarms : Fine-tuning and managing BMS alarms can be cumbersome and timeconsuming for facility managers . The frustration may escalate to the extent of switching off the system entirely , undermining environmental control and regulatory adherence .
• Annual recalibration requirements : BMS systems entail annual recalibration of multiple sensors in the HVAC system , adding to maintenance costs and logistical challenges for facility managers .
STRIKING THE RIGHT BALANCE While manual monitoring of HVAC systems in pharmaceutical facilities offers distinct advantages , it ’ s imperative to strike a judicious balance between cost-effectiveness , reliability and scalability . Smaller facilities with limited budgets and simpler HVAC requirements may find manual monitoring a pragmatic approach . However , larger facilities with complex HVAC systems may derive benefits from investing in a BMS , provided adequate training and support are available to manage the system effectively . RACA
“ The implementation of a comprehensive BMS system often entails significant upfront costs , which is particularly daunting for smaller pharmaceutical facilities .”
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I June 2024 43