Blog & Industry News / Updates - George T. Hall Company

Navigating the Digital Frontier of Industrial Operations: the Path to Paperless Record-Keeping

Written by Alea Katan | Oct 25, 2023 11:16:21 PM

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries, George T. Hall (GTH) recognizes the crucial role of transitioning from traditional paper-based record keeping to advanced paperless recorders. With a rich legacy spanning over 90 years in controls and automation we have cultivated longstanding relationships with the industry’s top manufacturers. As system integrators we have been granted the ability to distribute components to our customers. We stand at the forefront of control solutions for major industrial operations, leveraging our century-long expertise to address the evolving needs of modern businesses. In the face of this transformative era, GTH has embraced innovation to address the ever-changing needs of modern businesses. We've forged partnerships with major manufacturers such as Honeywell, 

Yokogawa, ABB, Siemens, Watlow - Eurotherm, allowing us to offer tailor-made solutions across diverse industries. Particularly in sectors like Heat Treat, Aerospace, Food & Beverage, and Pharmaceutical & Life Sciences, compliance with stringent regulations is paramount.

 

In the Life Sciences industry, the FDA has established clear guidelines under Title 21 CFR Part 11, ensuring the secure management of electronic data. Regulated entities, including pharmaceutical firms, medical device manufacturers, and biotechnology companies, must adhere to these standards. Even if a company primarily relies on paper documentation, electronic versions must align with paper records. Compliance necessitates robust data security protocols, clear audit trails, and adherence to electronic signature guidelines. It's a responsibility that squarely rests on the shoulders of Life Sciences companies, emphasizing their accountability over the software platforms they employ.

Similarly, in the Aerospace industry, the introduction of AMS2750G in June 2022 mandated a transition to digital recorders. Operations within the Aerospace sector was required to upgrade to digital recorders by June of 2023 to ensure compliance. This shift from traditional paper-based record-keeping to digital systems offers a myriad of advantages.

Transitioning from traditional paper-based record-keeping to a digital system is a transformative shift offering efficiency, cost effectiveness, and positive environmental impact. When considering the upgrade to digital recorders for data collection, several crucial benefits to operators comes to the forefront:

  • Efficient Information Retrieval

Digital records enable swift and organized data retrieval, enhancing operational efficiency and enabling remote access to essential information. This real-time access improves customer service and internal collaboration.

  • Streamlined Editing and Communication

Digital files can be edited instantly, improving accuracy, and shared seamlessly, enhancing communication with clients and colleagues. Real-time interaction enhances customer service and internal collaboration.

  • Cost-Effective Operations

Digital records significantly reduce paper-based expenses, leading to long-term cost savings. Streamlined processes increase overall productivity, maximizing operational efficiency.

  • Optimized Workspace

Digital conversion liberates physical office space, enabling businesses to restructure for enhanced workflow or accommodate additional employees. This optimization reduces operational costs and enhances workplace productivity.

  • Environmental Responsibility

Embracing digital records contributes to environmental conservation by reducing paper consumption, minimizing deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy-intensive recycling processes.

  • Enhanced Security Measures

Digital records offer advanced encryption and restricted access, ensuring data confidentiality. Secure backups and electronic signatures add an extra layer of security, making digital documentation more reliable than traditional methods.

Below is a list of some of the recorders we commonly recommend to our customers.

While navigating the journey of upgrading to digital recorders it is important to keep in mind that calibration is vital for precision and reliability, and GTH offers annual calibration services and repairs. Our specialized engineering group ensures compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements. The need for annual calibration of paperless recorders is a critical aspect, ensuring the precision and reliability of recorded data. Various factors influence the calibration frequency, including industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal quality control policies. GTH, equipped with a specialized engineering group that can offer annual calibration services and/or repairs as needed. By offering reliable calibration services tailored to our customers specific industry and unique applications. We offer reliable calibration services designed to meet your process and quality requirements. Our Field Engineers use NIST-traceable instruments to perform gas, temperature, pressure, and level calibrations on a variety of instruments including Chart / Video Recorders, Controllers, Gas Analyzers, and Temperature Sensors. We comply with industry best practices and utilize ISA data sheets when required.

By guiding businesses through the digital transition, GTH ensures compliance, accuracy, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact.

Our expertise in assessing the need for upgrading paperless recorders, their partnerships with major manufacturers, and their dedicated field service engineers position them as pioneers in the digital transformation of industrial operations. By guiding businesses through the transition, GTH ensures not only compliance and accuracy but also efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental stewardship. As industries evolve, GTH remains committed to providing innovative solutions that shape the future of automation and control.

Don’t see the paperless recorder you’re looking for listed here? Or do you need support in identifying the best recorder for your operations? Contact us and we can assist you in identifying the best plan of action for upgrading to digital recording systems.