Lumilabo

At Lumilabo, a leading laboratory in Portugal, the challenges of manually monitoring temperatures and validating data were a constant struggle. However, the introduction of the ViGIE solution revolutionised the processes, resulting in significant improvements from the first weeks of implementation. Dr Teresa Nascimento, deputising for the Technical Directorate of Lumilabo Laboratory, shares her experience.

Initial challenges

“Monitoring temperatures, especially using software to read, interpret, compile and analyse the results, as well as collating this data, was a very time-consuming task. We used sensors in the fridges and other equipment that needed monitoring. However, the subsequent process, involving all the software and the work needed to validate the information, was extremely time-consuming, highly manual and took up a considerable amount of the technical team’s time.” explains Dr Teresa Nascimento.

The search for a solution

The need for an efficient system led Lumilabo to ViGIE. “We had the problem of sensors that weren’t working very well and then we had the problem of checking temperatures when transporting biological products from the collection points to the central laboratory, which was completely manual,” she recalls. They needed a comprehensive solution to integrate sensor data, automate monitoring and provide alarms in real time.

Implementation and Immediate Benefits

Dr Teresa Nascimento highlights the smooth implementation: “There were no difficulties at all, the software is very intuitive.” In just a few weeks, substantial improvements were noted. “One of the substantial improvements was in the area of pre-analysis, with better stability of biological samples in the departments, especially during transport.”

The ViGIE system ensured accurate monitoring and sample stability, especially during transport, a critical factor in maintaining sample integrity and reducing economic losses. “Once we had the ViGIE system, monitoring was a huge relief and also an economic saving for the laboratory itself.”

Increased Safety and Efficiency

The automated alarm system has transformed Lumilabo’s operations. “It’s taken away a lot of work, a lot of worry,” says Dr Teresa Nascimento. The ViGIE system has provided peace of mind with real-time alerts, allowing better focus on critical tasks and ensuring the safety of both samples and staff.

Audit compliance

ViGIE’s data is invaluable during audits. “It’s very useful because it was one of the issues in the audits, especially with regard to pre-analysis,” he says. Detailed and reliable data ensures compliance and effectively addresses audit concerns.

Critical Moments

Dr Teresa Nascimento shares a crucial incident: “A freezer that was at a very low temperature overnight, the temperature was lowered without manual interference and was quickly adjusted to the correct temperature, this action was only possible thanks to the alarm systems directed in real time to the technical team.” ViGIE’s alert system enabled immediate corrective action, preventing potential losses.

Conclusion

Lumilabo’s partnership with ViGIE Solutions exemplifies how innovative technology can optimise operations, increase security and ensure compliance. “They were always very friendly, all the interventions were fruitful, nothing to complain about,” she concludes, praising ViGIE’s customer service.