Understanding BCCDC Cold Chain Requirements
The BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) Immunization Program establishes comprehensive requirements for vaccine storage and handling across British Columbia. These guidelines ensure vaccines maintain their potency from manufacturer to patient.
Key Storage Requirements
BCCDC cold chain requirements include:
- Temperature Range: +2°C to +8°C for refrigerated vaccines
- Target Temperature: +5°C provides optimal safety margin
- Monitoring Frequency: Minimum twice daily (start and end of workday)
- Documentation: Complete temperature logs with min/max readings
COVID-19 Vaccine Storage
BCCDC provides specific guidance for COVID-19 mRNA vaccines:
- Pfizer-BioNTech: Ultra-low temperature storage at -90°C to -60°C, or refrigerated at +2°C to +8°C for limited duration
- Moderna: Shipped in insulated containers with specific handling guidance provided by BCCDC
Cold Chain Incident Management
When temperature excursions occur, BCCDC requires:
- Immediate Documentation: Record the incident details including duration and temperature readings
- Vaccine Quarantine: Quarantine affected vaccines in the refrigerator immediately (do not dispose of or use)
- Report to BPC: Contact the regional Biological Products Consultant
- Await Guidance: Do not discard vaccines until advised by the BPC
ATEK automatically captures all data needed for incident reporting, including:
- Exact time the excursion began and ended
- Minimum and maximum temperatures during the event
- Duration of the temperature deviation
- Complete audit trail for regulatory review
How ATEK Supports BCCDC Compliance
Continuous Monitoring
ATEK monitors vaccine storage temperatures every 15 minutes, far exceeding the twice-daily minimum. This provides:
- Early warning of developing problems
- Complete temperature history
- Evidence of continuous compliance
Immediate Alerts
When temperatures approach or exceed limits, ATEK sends alerts via:
- SMS text message
- Email notification
- Phone call escalation
Alert recipients can be configured to match your facility’s chain of responsibility.
Documentation Ready for Inspections
ATEK maintains complete records for health authority audits:
- Temperature logs with timestamps
- Calibration certificates
- Excursion reports with corrective actions
- Equipment maintenance records
Facility Requirements
BCCDC specifies requirements for vaccine storage equipment:
Refrigerator Standards
- Pharmacy-grade under-the-counter units acceptable for vaccine storage
- Must maintain only one temperature range enclosed by a door with an air-tight seal
- Dedicated vaccine-only units required (no food, beverages, or other items)
- Must be locked or placed in a lockable room to prevent unauthorized access
Data Logger Requirements
- Digital display showing current temperature
- Min/max temperature recording
- Valid calibration certificate
- Downloadable data capability
ATEK sensors meet all BCCDC data logger requirements and provide additional features including wireless connectivity, cloud storage, and automated reporting.