Instead of comparing barrier systems solely in terms of costs, the consideration of energy consumption offers another insightful approach – especially as it is in line with the recent trend towards ‘green’ pharmaceutical manufacturing. Depending on a) ambient conditions, b) defined parameters and c) the respective air supply systems, the energy consumption of Restricted Access Barrier Systems (RABS) and isolators varies significantly. For instance, isolator systems can save up to 65% of energy compared with RABS, while active RABS are up to 30% more energy-efficient than passive RABS.
Many highly complex process steps, combined with long development periods and expensive ingredients make the pharmaceutical industry a very cost-intensive business. Pharma has had a reputation of being reluctant to consider more ecological production alternatives. However, being neither immune to rising energy costs1 nor against higher regulatory requirements, the industry is currently rethinking its manufacturing philosophy. In parallel, the use of high-potency pharmaceuticals has grown extensively, causing producers to pay more heed to even safer production processes. Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines2 require dedicated facilities to minimise the risk of cross contamination.
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