Pharma Relocation of blister packing lines from Astra Zeneca, Hamburg to Astra Zeneca Mexico, Russia, Sweden, UK and Egypt.

The scope of this project was to disassemble IMA Giant blistering lines, package and transport to 5 AZ global sites (Mexico, Russia, Sweden, UK and Egypt). The lines were running with products that were still being produced and demanded in the marketplace. There was a critical and predetermined period of time that the line could be out of service. The line was formed from an assembly of various and varying equipment pieces and a contribution would be required from each equipment manufacturer to ensure that the project would be a success. The responsibility for the project was placed with Interflow Logistics and the AZ Wedel management team . The management of this project involved interactions with all AZ Sites, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and all other service providers.

The first steps of the project involved gaining knowledge of the line and the equipment. A working knowledge of the type of equipment that was utilised on the line allowed Interflow to be able to assure AZ that the project would be approached from a strong position. Critical steps involved building good working relationships with both AZ Germany and the other global AZ sites. Good relations were established with all of the equipment operators and other service providers.

Due to the critical timeline of this relocation the planning of the project was of the highest importance. Interflow worked with AZ to develop systems and documentation that would support the relocation of these lines on one site and recommissioning on another site. Daily meetings and knowledge sharing allowed for good communication of ideas. Through this process all logistical aspects of the project were considered; non-conforming aspects were eliminated and a comprehensive plan was developed.

Preparation for the move involved site surveys in Germany. These surveys allowed Interflow to gain a complete understanding of the logistical challenges. Important concerns of the project were highlighted and Interflow worked closely with AZ to resolve the issues. The removal was performed according to the steps outlined in a predefined plan. Interflow worked closely with AZ to ensure that both organisations were confident that the correct sequence was followed, that the correct readjustments were made for unforeseen aspects of the project, and that the work was done responsibly and safely and in a way that was in accordance with AZ procedures. The complete line was measured and all equipment settings recorded. Electrical wiring and interconnections were recorded before disassembly.

Professional Packing and Transportation was vital for this project. Interflow were able to offer a number of options for the packaging and crating of sensitive equipment that operated with electronic controls. This type of equipment is often sensitive to the vibrations and impacts of transport and exposure to changing environments and climate. The area were carefully prepared before the equipment was moved. A working Knowledge of facilities allowed for greater control of the project and determining what was in the best interests of the client in relation to the particular equipment and line assembly. Certain reconfigurations to the line disassembly were allowed for to enable efficient air, ocean and road transport. Technical advice was made available to the client to allow them to explore transport options in order to make the best choices.

The best solutions were applied to ensure that the equipment was transported between sites without any undesirable incidents or delays. As an added precaution the Interflow Project Team were in attendance for the loading and unloading of these AZ capital assets . Interflow were able to schedule this part of the work so that it would not interfere with normal operations at the dispatch centres. International customs clearance preplanning and execution were key to the final delivery success. The process was approached as a partnership with the client and with a common goal to achieve success in the shortest time possible. With the client entirely satisfied the project was signed off.