Cold chain

In the event of a cold chain breach do not use or discard any vaccine. Call the Immunisation Program on 1300 882 008 for advice.

Tips for refrigerator management - All refrigerators

• Educate all staff about temperature awareness
• Have back up staff to monitor the fridge during staff annual leave
• Develop a cold chain protocol
• Raise the front of the fridge to tilt back slightly to help the door close
• Lock the fridge door between use
• Sign over the fridge power point - 'Vaccine refrigerator - do not turn off or disconnect'
• Leave vaccine in its packaging and do not expose to light
• Do not over stock vaccine for air to circulate
• Place the vaccine fridge on an internal wall to reduce external temperature fluctuations affecting the fridge performance
• Review the National vaccine storage guidelines-Strive for 5 at: www.immunise.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/provider-store

Domestic refrigerators

• A purpose built vaccine refrigerator is recommended
• Replace the minimum/maximum thermometer battery annually
• One person to be responsible for adjusting the thermostat
• Use bottles of water in the door and empty spaces as 'cold mass' to reduce fluctuating temperatures
• Defrost the freezer regularly if appropriate

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