Thermal Mapping
Temperature distribution studies for pharmaceutical storage environments — from protocol development and sensor placement through to data review, statistical analysis, and summary reporting.
What Is Thermal Mapping?
Thermal mapping is the systematic measurement of temperature distribution throughout a pharmaceutical storage environment using calibrated data loggers placed at defined positions over a defined study period. The purpose is to identify the coldest and warmest locations within the environment, understand temperature uniformity, and determine whether the environment is suitable for the storage of pharmaceutical products at the required temperature range.
Regulatory requirements for thermal mapping are referenced in WHO Technical Report Series guidelines, GDP regulations, and Good Storage Practice standards. Mapping is typically required as part of initial qualification, seasonal assessment, and following significant changes to the storage environment or monitoring system.
A robust thermal mapping study provides the scientific basis for permanent sensor placement, temperature alert and alarm threshold setting, and ongoing monitoring programme design.
Our Mapping Process
Scope & Protocol Development
We begin by defining the study scope, objectives, acceptance criteria, and study duration. The mapping protocol is drafted and approved before any equipment is deployed.
Sensor Placement Plan
A scientifically justified sensor placement plan is developed based on the environment dimensions, airflow patterns, racking configuration, and known risk areas (doors, HVAC units, floor level, ceiling).
Study Execution
Calibrated data loggers are deployed per the placement plan. The study runs for the defined period under representative operational conditions, including door openings, loading patterns, and seasonal extremes as applicable.
Data Review & Analysis
Logged data is downloaded, verified, and analysed. Statistical review identifies temperature uniformity, hotspots, coldspots, and any periods of exceedance relative to acceptance criteria.
Report & Conclusions
A full thermal mapping summary report is produced, documenting the study methodology, results, statistical analysis, hotspot and coldspot locations, and recommendations for permanent sensor placement.
Environments We Map
Sensor Calibration
All data loggers used in thermal mapping studies are calibrated against traceable reference standards. Pre- and post-study calibration checks are documented as part of the study record, providing evidence of measurement integrity across the full study duration.
Calibration certificates are referenced and included in the thermal mapping report.
Sensor Placement Logic
- Volume-based minimum sensor count
- Risk-based placement at doors and access points
- Vertical distribution (floor, mid, ceiling levels)
- Proximity to HVAC units and air vents
- Hotspot and coldspot candidate locations
- Racking structure and load pattern considered
Thermal Mapping Calculator
Use our free planning tool to estimate sensor count requirements and study complexity for your environment.
Request a Thermal Mapping Study
Tell us about your environment and we will scope the right study for your requirements.