Background

A Kestrel client was engaged by a major European pharma customer to evaluate the use of less environmentally damaging pressured Meter Dose Inhaler  (pMDI) propellant gasses in existing canister designs.

The investigation included testing of existing canister valve designs and an assessment of an accelerated leak testing programme using low molecular weight gas.

Kestrel’s role was initially to provide technical input and review of existing canister designs, performance and root cause analysis of leak rates in samples. Following staff resignations, illness and disruption during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kestrel stepped in to take over control of the project.

Requirement

Technical Review of existing canister designs, performance and root cause analysis of leak rate in samples.

Provision of external replacement resource to continue test and analysis work following resignations.

Overall project management and delivery to shifting client timescales amid disruption due to COVID-19

Response

External test team was engaged, contracts agreed, and plans drawn up to continue the project

The project was replanned, re-costed and re-proposed with client input to meet key milestones

Flexible collaborative working practices were extensively used to ensure continuation of work, manage project risk and ensure clear communication to keep clients engaged and informed

Result

All samples were tested, analysed and results tabulated and communicated with client on time and on budget.

Successful result led to further requests for multiple follow-on projects.