Advanced Aseptic Processing (AAP) is a term referenced in the recently published ISPE RABS definition1 to cover the spectrum of Restricted Access Barrier Systems (RABS) and isolator systems. In general, AAP techniques are physical barrier methods of product protection and containment that are used during manufacturing operations to separate (primarily) operators from the process. These methods are most often used during open processes or other critical process steps to ensure the product is not exposed to viable organisms and particulate contamination. While there are many methods to choose from, there is no argument that AAP techniques are widely used.

Testing cleaning validation samples requires a validated method. The extent of validation is dependent upon the type of method employed, the capabilities of the method, the scientific and regulatory needs of the resulting data and the anticipated outcome of the testing. A number of test method options are reviewed for their analytical capabilities, along with their method validation parameters.