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Use a min/max thermometer (can be purchased through the health unit)
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Transport all vaccines in hard sided, monitored coolers. The temperature must be between 2-8 Degrees during transportation.
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Keep full water bottles in the fridge to help maintain the temperature in the event of a fridge failure.
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Group vaccines by type and ensure there is space between vaccines.
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Do not store vaccine products in the doors or drawers.
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All multi dose vials are to be dated once opened and used by timing specified in product monograph (if no date is indicated, will be removed upon inspection)
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Velcro closures to ensure that fridge door is securely closed
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Check all vaccines when they arrive at your facility for the expiry date. It may be helpful to mark the month that vaccines will expire in the log book.
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Place vaccines that will expire first at the front
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Any expired vaccine products must be returned to the health unit
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Batteries for thermometers must be changed twice per year. A suggestion is change batteries when the clocks change in spring and fall. Mark your log book in November and March as an added reminder.
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Defrost freezer routinely.
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Fridge temperatures will fluctuate during increased fridge access. Mark your log book with an asterisk to indicate when this occurs.
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Keep storage and handling guidelines beside vaccine fridge for easy access
*Have a back up plan for vaccine in the event of a power failure. See MOHLTC Guidelines for suggestions. If your office/facility is planning a vacation it is recommended that vaccine be returned to the health unit for safe storage.*
