Do refrigerators/freezers need to be monitored during summer months?

Yes, all refrigerators and freezers must be monitored daily during the summer months if foods are stored in the unit.  Possible solutions include training a custodian, the principal, or another individual who would be present at the school during the summer months.  

Refrigerators must be maintained at 39 degrees F or colder and freezers at 0 degrees F or colder.  The temperature of all units must be properly recorded on the appropriate School HACCP records found in 2-6:  Monitoring and Recordkeeping.  Another option is the installation of a temperature alarm system or other electronic monitoring system.  If an alarm or electronic system is used, all logs need to be reviewed weekly and the data log stapled to the appropriate temperature daily monitoring sheet as it is part of your HACCP record.

If the school does not have the resources to monitor all refrigerators and freezer units, then food cannot stored in these units over the summer.

Revised:  July 2009; Prepared:  June 13, 2007

If you have questions, contact Dr. Angela Fraser, Associate Professor/Food Safety Education Specialist, Clemson University, Clemson, SC.

Clemson University is an AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate against any person or group on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

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