Here at CSK Group, we regularly receive enquiries about the storage of vaccines. Vaccines are sensitive biological substances. They can have their potency reduced, or destroyed altogether, when stored below +2°C, above +8°C, and when exposed to light.

The National Vaccine Storage Guidelines – ‘Strive for 5’ – outlines the requirements and best practices for the management of vaccine storage. According to these guidelines, a ‘cold chain breach’ has occurred if vaccine storage temperatures have been outside the recommended range of +2°C to +8°C. It excludes fluctuations up to +12°C, lasting no longer than 15 minutes, as may occur when stock taking or restocking refrigerators

Our are purpose-built for the safe storage of vaccines and medical products. Unlike a regular refrigerator, the temperature within the cabinet is uniform, stable and controlled between +2°C and +8°C. These specialist refrigerators alarm if the temperature is out of range and when the door is left open. The inbuilt data logger with memory keeps track of the temperature inside the cabinet, how often the door is opened, and when alarms occurred. It is simple to comply with temperature recording requirements, as this data can be easily downloaded using a USB.

By using a purpose-built fridge and implementing procedures in the National Vaccine Storage Guidelines, any cold chain breaches can be identified and managed before vaccines are damaged or ineffective vaccines are administered.

For more information about our Pinnacle Pharmacy Refrigerators, contact our Customer Service team on 1300 358 045 or sales@cskgroup.com.au/cskgroup.

Vaccine Storage Guidelines 2013, Strive for 5, 2nd Edition: 2