Blood bank refrigerators store and protect refrigerated whole blood, blood components, and blood products by maintaining a uniform temperature. The refrigerators provide rapid recovery of the setpoint temperature and are available in a variety of models and sizes. Pass-thru models allow access from the front and back of the unit. Other models include lockable doors for added security, chart recorders, and alarms that warn of temperature deviations.

Refrigerators used to store blood and blood components must meet the requirements of the AABB, the American National Red Cross (ANRC), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These include:

• Forced-air circulation to maintain temperature uniformity
• Directional airflow for fast temperature recovery after opening
• Temperatures adjustable between 1° and 8°C
• Visual and audible alarms for over-and under-temperatures, power failure
• Battery back-up system