Pallets have long been a staple product in the pharmaceutical supply chain with manufacturers relying on them for handling packaged goods in production areas, through the warehouse and onwards to distribution centres and wholesalers. Although the role of pallets today remains unchanged, the demands on them are far more rigorous than they have ever been. A greater variety of applications and uses has increased the requirement for pallets to be made from different materials and in different sizes and styles. Lightweight models for easy shipping or strong and durable varieties for repeated use are just a couple of examples. In the pharma sector, the specific need for pallets to be used in sterile environments has led to other innovations.
Looking back over the past five years, the processes for handling pharmaceutical goods on pallets have improved considerably, largely as a result of pallet hygiene being thrust into the spotlight after a number of drug contamination incidents1 were linked to the wooden pallets they were transported on. There was a time, for instance, where traditional wooden pallets were being used in sterile production environments for handling goods: that is wooden pallets that cannot be easily cleaned due to the porous nature of wood; can splinter, leaving pockets where dirt and other bacteria can collect and grow; and contain nails that are susceptible to rust.
Not yet a Subscriber?
This is a small extract of the full article which is available ONLY to premium content subscribers. Click below to get premium content on Manufacturing Chemist.
Subscribe now Already a subscriber? Sign in here.