GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Location: Mississauga, Ontario
Client: GSK Canada

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is one of the world’s leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies. The 250,000-sq.ft. facility in Ontario is one of two operated by GSK in Canada. It employs a workforce of 455 and manufactures more than 75 recognized brand name prescription and over-the-counter medicines and skin care products, with around 80% of the output exported to more than 100 markets worldwide.

HGC has been providing noise and vibration consulting services to GSK Canada since the mid 1990s.  Originally, we were brought in to assess and provide design assistance for structural vibration control issues of the automated robotic inventory management system at the heart of the plant.

Since 2006, we have worked to prepare and update the site-wide acoustic assessment of the facility, in support of maintaining and amending its environmental approvals. That work has included measuring the sound emission levels of all sources on site, measuring and monitoring sound levels at the nearest neighboring residences, and developing noise control recommendations for new equipment or plant expansions/modifications.

We also continue regularly to assess and develop solutions to minimize indoor workplace noise exposure based on GSK’s own internal, corporate limits for workplace noise, which are more restrictive than local regulatory requirements. During these assessments, we conduct High Definition personal noise dosimetry and sound source identification and ranking for key areas throughout the facility. In targeted areas, we have provided comprehensive noise control recommendations within the constraints of GSK’s stringent and challenging Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) environment.

Acoustical consulting services delivered:

• Site-wide acoustic assessment reports
• Workplace noise survey
• Structural vibration assessment and control
• Noise dosimetry testing
• Conducted detailed noise studies in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change procedures
• Sound source identification and ranking
• Specified noise controls
• Developed noise control plan