Cold Chain Protocol - Vaccines and Biologics
Appendix 3: Malfunctioning Refrigerator Trouble Shooting Checklist
The following checklist is designed to assist in identifying and trouble shooting issues related to possible refrigerator malfunctions.
- Refrigerator is too warm or cold
Check for the following:- Unit is plugged in, turned on, and the control knob has been set properly.
- Door is closing properly or has been opened too frequently within short time period.
- Temperature recording device is properly located.
- Freezer compartment is free of thick frost (<1 cm).
- Good air circulation inside and outside the unit.
- Exposed coils and the motor are free from dust.
- Room temperature is appropriate.
Action: Call a refrigeration technician to assess equipment, if necessary.
- Refrigerator is too noisy (or is making an unusual noise)
Action: Call a refrigeration technician to assess equipment, if necessary.
- Refrigerator has stopped working
Check for the following:
- Electrical cord is undamaged.
- Unit is plugged in and turned on.
- Wall outlet is operative.
Action: Appropriate personnel to check fuses and circuit breakers. Call a refrigeration technician to assess the equipment, if necessary.
Note: If a simple solution to a cold chain problem is not immediately identified (power disconnected, fridge door ajar, temperature probe misplacement, etc.) move vaccines and biologics to a back-up refrigerator or temporarily store in Styrofoam coolers.
Communicable Disease
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