The big chill ... Storing samples and supplies at the correct temperature vital to accurate test results. (Product Roundup).

How cold is it? Your lab refrigerator, that is. How cold does it need to be? Well, it depends on what you want to store in it. Different cultures and media need different environments. Choose the units that best meet the needs of your lab. Keep in mind that placement of refrigerators and chillers can really impact lab staff's workflow. Put them too far away from the workbench, and specimens are liable to sit at room temperature longer than they should. The correct location can have a large impact on the unit's efficiency. Without adequate airflow, the units won't work to capacity, could be more expensive to run, and may even cause specimens to deteriorate more rapidly.

Kendro Laboratory Products, Newton, CT, markets lab refrigeration units from Heraeus and Jewett. For ultra-low temperatures, the Heraeus HERAfreeze -85[degrees]C freezer is available in a range of sizes and configurations to meet short-and long-term sample storage needs. All models incorporate the Alliance CFC-free refrigeration system, which provides rapid cooling, fast response to door openings, and reliable long-term performance under fluctuating voltage and environmental conditions.

The CryoLatch security latch system includes a sturdy handle, keyed lock, and provision for a padlock. It allows doors to be opened and closed with just one hand. For added sample security, options and accessories are available, including stainless steel interiors, temperature recorders, and backup systems.

The Jewett division of Kendro recently introduced the BBR55T upright twin mechanical blood bank refrigerator that offers a redundant refrigeration system to provide maximum temperature security. Dual mechanical systems provide complete cooling capacity with rapid recovery and the added safety of backup refrigeration systems. The stainless steel unit has an outer jacket of rugged enamel, a 55 cubic foot capacity that can accommodate up to 660 units of 450 mL bags, with 12 storage drawers. Forced air circulation, a standard HemaPro 2000 alarm/monitor, and 7ER recorder thermometer ensure storage at securely maintained temperatures.

Stainless steel refrigerators are rugged, yet easy to keep clean and sanitize. Daigger, Vernon Hills, IL, offers models with one, two, or three doors, including one with double glass doors for ease of viewing contents. Each door has a cylinder lock for security of contents. The refrigeration system uses environmentally safe R-134-A refrigerant with temperature adjustment from +2[degrees]C to +8[degrees]C and a continuous display external thermometer.

From NuAire, the Ultralow Chest provides -152[degrees]C temperatures in a smaller footprint than most other chest freezers. Standard features include a microprocessor control in a functional and reliable control center, an automatic alarm system, CFC-free polyurethane insulation, and specially designed compressors and refrigeration systems.

NuAire, based in Plymouth, MN, also offers upright freezer systems with a smaller footprint than other -88[degrees]C freezers. Larger compressors make for longer life and less energy consumption. Sizes range from 10.6 cubic feet to 20.5 cubic feet.

Thermon Electron Co., based in Marietta, OH, offers the ThermoForma line of refrigeration products with styles from under-counter models to large chest freezers and double door uprights. CryoMed freezers offer controlled rate freezing for crucial sample viability. The control panel displays chamber temperature and profile status and messages continuously. Access code security protects the integrity of specimens.

Jouan Inc., based in Winchester, VA, offers laboratory freezers with doors that allow for single-hand opening and quick recovery time after door opening to ensure sample integrity. The internal doors are insulated; the units have four individual cooling chambers with a high temperature alarm. Audible and visible alarms are built in, with optional remote alarm contacts and temperature chart recorder available.

Marvel Scientific, Richmond, IN, refrigerators are UL listed with an extra long, jacketed commercial power cord and a hospital-grade plug. Stainless steel enclosed mechanical and electrical components on the units' back and bottom provide additional protection against electrical fires. The commercial lifetime fan motor and specially designed compressor with all electrical components enclosed help to prevent accidental ignition of refrigerator contents.

Refrigerators for the morgue come in many configurations: pullout telescope, side body opener, and end body opener. Mopec, Detroit, MI, manufactures all these styles. Most models are available with digital controls and thermometers, flush mount doors, and magnetic seals, making them virtually airtight.

Word of advice

Here's a final word of advice on the proper use of lab refrigerators from Dennis J. Ernst MT(ASCP) director of the Center for Phlebotomy Education in Ramsey, IN According to the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard, "Food and drink shall not be kept in refrigerators, freezers, shelves, cabinets, or on countertops or benchtops where blood or other potentially infectious materials are present." Can it be any plainer?

Undoubtedly, many facilities have an ironclad lock on OSHA compliance and a zero tolerance for employee infractions. For them, it is unthinkable that this reminder is even necessary. Others are not so diligent. Here's the bottom line: Making a holiday exception to storing food in refrigerators that also store biohazardous material -- including reagents, chemicals, and blood and blood components -- however temporary, is not only uncouth, it's unhealthy. In the U.S., it's a violation of federal standards. Nowhere in OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogen Standard will you find the words "... except when there's a pitch-in dinner."

Suzanne Noble, R.N., is senior editor of MLO. She has served on the editorial advisory board of Springhouse Publications, as a judge for the 2000 Microsoft Healthcare Users Group (MS-HUG) Industry Solutions Awards, and is on the faculty of the Medical Records Institute. Tana Sembiante, MLO editorial assistant, also contributed to this article.