Regular cold chain audits help ensure vaccines are stored and managed correctly, reducing the risk of cold chain breaches and protecting vaccine effectiveness. Audits also provide the opportunity to review temperature monitoring processes, check equipment performance and refamiliarise staff with cold chain procedures. 

Take a few minutes this spring to:

• review your cold chain management plan
• confirm the purpose-built vaccine fridge has been serviced within the past 12 months
• confirm the data logger has been calibrated or serviced in the last 6-12 months, with batteries replaced where possible.
• ensure minimum and maximum vaccine fridge temperatures are being monitored and recorded correctly - using the fridge digital display AND data logger recordings 
• confirm staff know how to respond to a cold chain breach
• update training for new or returning staff
• ensure you remain compliant with the conditions to hold a Victorian government vaccine account

Reviewing your processes now can help minimise risks during spring’s stormy weather and the warmer months to ensure your service is prepared to deliver safe and effective immunisation services year-round. 

Access the Department of Health's Cold Chain Management resources, audit tools, videos and guidance to support best practice vaccine storage and handling.