Data Logging Service

Accurate and continuous temperature monitoring is critical to safe vaccine storage. MPHN strongly encourages all General Practices to use their own data logger as part of their cold chain management strategy. For practices that do not currently have a data logger, MPHN can provide one on loan upon request.

What is a Data Logger?

A data logger is a small, self-contained electronic device that continuously measures and records temperatures at preset intervals—ideally every 5 minutes. Once programmed using a computer, the data logger operates independently on battery power inside the vaccine refrigerator, storing temperature data until it is downloaded.

Data loggers provide a digital, detailed record of the fridge’s temperature over time, allowing providers to:

  • Confirm that the cold chain has been maintained

  • Identify ‘cold spots’ or fluctuations that may compromise vaccine safety

  • Detect and investigate any breaches

  • Support accreditation, audits, and compliance with cold chain protocols

Why use a Data Logger?

Continuous temperature monitoring offers several key benefits:

  • Tracks duration and severity of temperature breaches

  • Maps fridge performance across different zones and times

  • Identifies risks of freezing—especially overnight, during long weekends, or power outages

  • Builds staff confidence and understanding of refrigerator behaviour

  • Strengthens documentation for audits and supports accreditation standards

Using uour Data Logger properly

To ensure reliable data:

  • Place the data logger in the centre of the fridge, near the vaccines or temperature probe

  • Download and review data at least weekly (or more frequently if recommended)

  • Ensure manual twice-daily temperature checks of minimum and maximum readings are still recorded

  • If your logger is used for daily monitoring, ensure it has a visual display for real-time readings

  • Alarm settings should be activated to alert if temperatures go outside the +2°C to +8°C range

  • Train all relevant staff to use, read, download, and respond to the logger’s data

  • Document any actions taken in response to alerts or anomalies

Choosing a Data Logger – What to look for

When purchasing your own data logger, consider:

  • Can it be set to 5-minute intervals?

  • Is it easy to use, set up, and download data?

  • Does it provide alerts for breaches?

  • What is its accuracy (±0.1°C is preferred)?

  • Does it have a clear visual display for current, min/max temps?

  • How long does the battery last and how is it replaced?

  • Can the accuracy be checked in-house?

Cloud-based Data Loggers: Real-time monitoring and remote access

As technology advances, many practices are opting for cloud-based data loggers to simplify cold chain monitoring and increase visibility of fridge performance. These systems provide all the benefits of standard data loggers, with the added convenience of real-time temperature monitoring, automatic alerts, and remote data access.

Key features of cloud-based data loggers:

  • Real-time temperature tracking via internet or mobile networks

  • Automated alerts via SMS, email, or app if the temperature goes outside +2°C to +8°C

  • Remote access to data from any device, without the need for manual downloading

  • Automatic reporting and record-keeping, reducing administrative burden

  • Multi-fridge or multi-site monitoring from a single dashboard

Benefits for practices:

  • Early warning of temperature breaches—even after hours

  • No need to manually download or store data

  • Improved compliance with Strive for 5 and accreditation requirements

  • Simplified fridge audits and cold chain investigations

Points to consider:

  • Ongoing subscription costs for cloud services

  • Need for reliable internet/mobile connectivity

  • Ensure the system allows 5-minute recording intervals

  • Confirm whether min/max readings are visible on the device for daily manual recording

Cloud-based systems can be particularly beneficial for busy or multi-site practices looking to streamline their vaccine storage monitoring and reduce risk.

Maintenance and best practice

  • Record and download data as soon as possible after an alert

  • Perform accuracy checks regularly using a secondary logger for comparison

  • Replace batteries as needed and document all checks and changes

  • Store and retain downloaded data as per local medico-legal requirements

Need a Data Logger?

If your practice doesn’t currently have a data logger, MPHN can provide one on loan to support safe vaccine storage.

To arrange a loan or for assistance with using or selecting a data logger, please contact our Clinical Program and Emergency Response Manager or your MPHN Primary Care Engagement Officer.

Cristy Houghton