Data loggers used for vaccine storage are often misused or misunderstood, leading to incorrect readings and missing critical information when issues occur. Data loggers designed for standard vaccine storage include key features that ensure proper vaccine storage and monitoring.
On Screen Display
An onscreen display enables quick, real-time viewing of temperature and alarm status. When these units are externally mounted to the fridge, critical alerts are clearly visible, ensuring they aren’t missed. Regular monitoring and recordings are also simplified, as there’s no need to open the fridge, preventing unnecessary temperature fluctuations.
Preset Alarms & Parameters
Australia's Strive for 5 guidelines for vaccine storage specify that temperatures must be maintained between 2°C and 8°C. Good Vaccine data loggers designed for use in Australia are equipped with preset low and high alarms within this range, with the option to adjust the settings only if necessary. Recordings should also be preset to automatically record every 5 minutes, to meet best practice.
Glycol Bottle or Thermal Mass Block.
Glycol bottles placed around temperature probes help mitigate the effect of brief temperature fluctuations caused by refrigerator doors opening when vaccines are accessed. Immersing the temperature probe in a liquid replicates the physical temperature of the vaccines, rather than the air temperature in the fridge. Alternatively, thermal mass blocks like the TempBlock can achieve the same result without the need for additional liquids in the fridge.
Calibration Certificates
Having a data logger is crucial, but ensuring it provides accurate readings is just as important. Data loggers used for vaccine storage should come with a 12-month calibration certificate and clear contact information for scheduling recalibration. HLP also offers a probe replacement program, allowing you to purchase a new probe with a calibration certificate at a discounted price. This eliminates the need to remove your data logger from the fridge for recalibration.
Data Logger Storage
Where should data loggers be stored? A flashing and alarming data logger is of no use if it’s buried at the back of the fridge. Data loggers should have an easy-to-mount system, such as a magnetic back, allowing you to place the unit on the external side of the fridge. This ensures that no alarms are missed and makes the unit easily accessible for quick and straightforward readings.
Maintenance
Ensuring your data logger can be repaired rather than replaced is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. While not all data loggers allow for battery and probe replacement, these components often require replacement with regular use. When choosing a data logger, consider the availability of consumable parts and replacement options.
Reporting
For simplicity and timesaving, data loggers should be capable of storing at least 30 days' worth of data. To ensure safety and security, these units should have restrictions in place to prevent data deletion unless it has been downloaded and securely stored. For easy-to-read reports, it is recommended that data loggers allow export to PDF format. Additionally, for users who prefer to analyse their data visually, the ability to export to XLS format is important.
Software
Not only to access the data, but to customise the unit to your specific requirements there should be a software available to view, change and export the data. The Interface should be designed to be intuitive, so users of all experience levels can easily navigate through the software. Additional security features should also be available to be able to password protect data if required.
Looking for a data logger that meets all these requirements? Check out HLP Control’s Medi Log II:
- On-Screen Display with Min/Max Alarming and Audible & Visual Alerts
- Ready to Use right out of the box, with parameters preset to 2°C to 8°C
- Preinstalled Glycol Bottle included
- 12-Month Calibration Certificate, with the option to receive a new probe every 12 months, each with its own calibration certificate
- Easy Mounting with a magnetic back
- Replaceable 3.6V Battery and 2m probe cable
- 55-Day Storage Capacity for logged data
- PDF & XLS Reporting capabilities
- Free Software available for both PC and Mac
Available at just $159.00, right here 👉 Medi Log II
