Which statement exemplifies environmental monitoring in GMP?

• A. Biosafety training records.
• B. Swab samples of surfaces, air samples, and microbial counts in non-production areas.
• C. Calibration certificates.
• D. Waste disposal manifest.

Answer: (B)

Environmental monitoring involves regularly testing the facility environment to detect microbial contamination and ensure cleanliness where products are made or handled. Swab samples of surfaces check for residue and microbial presence on contact areas, air samples assess airborne contaminants, and tracking microbial counts gives an overall measure of bioburden in the environment. This hands-on approach directly shows whether the production area and adjacent spaces are being kept under control, helping prevent contamination from the surrounding environment. Other options relate to training, calibration, or waste management—important GMP activities but not direct measurements of environmental cleanliness and bioburden.