Providers participating in any of California’s vaccine programs agree to use data loggers that comply with VFC Program requirements.
Providers must equip every refrigerator and freezer storing publicly supplied vaccines with a data logger and have at least one backup, battery-operated data logger. Depending on practice size, additional data loggers may be needed.
Benefits
Continuous and accurate temperature monitoring is essential for proper storage and handling. An accurate record of vaccine temperatures minimizes loss of vaccine potency and potential revaccination. Data loggers offer these features:
- continuously record vaccine temperatures—even when the practice is closed
- determine how long vaccines were exposed to out-of-range temperatures
- notify staff of temperature excursions so action can be taken to protect vaccines
- generate temperature data files that can be used to look for excursion trends
Purchasing Considerations
Providers may purchase any digital data logger that meets VFC specifications. The California VFC Program does not endorse or promote specific devices. Data loggers might be simple, stand-alone devices or with enhanced cloud-based technology and remote access to temperature readings. Use the Data Logger Feature Comparison Guide as you research devices to meet your location’s needs. Specialized medical equipment suppliers and manufacturer/distributors are generally more knowledgeable about data loggers. Consider using the Pre-Purchase Worksheet (PDF) to select a vendor and device for purchase.
VFC Specifications
Unacceptable Temperature Monitoring Devices
Calibration Testing
Data loggers must have a compliant Certificate of Calibration (PDF). A calibrated device is one that has been professionally tested by comparing its readings to a reference thermometer traceable to national standards. Such testing confirms that devices are accurately recording temperatures in vaccine storage units. An accredited laboratory issues a certificate of calibration testing (also called a report of calibration) as evidence of the standard of calibration testing.
Configuring Devices
Use these instructions (PDF) to configure primary and backup data loggers. Refer to your device’s product guide or video to learn how to use it. Call the vendor’s support number for all questions regarding setup and functionality.
Routine Maintenance
Devices experience a drift over time that affects accuracy and must be calibrated every two to three years or according to manufacturer-recommended timeline.
Preparation for Recertification
Two to three months in advance of annual recertification, locations are strongly encouraged to verify that all data loggers are calibrated, certificates of calibration are current and expiration dates are documented in your vaccine management plan.
Additional Resources
Search these sites for a lab accredited specifically for digital data logger calibration:
- National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program(NVLAP)
- The American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA)
- The ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)
- International Accreditation Service (IAS)
- Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA)