Refrigerated transport or storage equipment capable of maintaining different temperature zones simultaneously (e.g., frozen, chilled, and fresh zones in one vehicle).
Natural Refrigerant
Refrigerants occurring naturally (not synthetic), typically with very low or zero GWP and zero ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential).
Natural Refrigerant Certification
Definition: Certification or verification that refrigeration systems use natural refrigerants (CO₂, ammonia, hydrocarbons) with low or zero Global Warming Potential (GWP), demonstrating environmental responsibility. Why It Matters: HFC refrigerant phase-down is accelerating globally. Kigali Amendment requires reduction of high-GWP refrigerants. Natural refrigerants provide long-term operational certainty. Natural Refrigerants:– CO₂ (R744): GWP=1, non-flammable, high pressure– Ammonia (R717): GWP=0, toxic, industrial use–…
NOSA (National Occupational Safety Association)
South African organization providing occupational health and safety management systems, training, and auditing. NOSA 5-Star system rates company safety performance.
OHS Act (Occupational Health and Safety Act)
South African Act 85 of 1993 governing workplace safety. Cold chain operations have specific safety requirements around refrigeration systems, confined spaces, and hazardous materials.
Organic Certification
Certification that products meet organic production standards (no synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, etc.). Cold chain operators handling organic products may need organic certification.
Packaging Qualification
Definition: Validation studies demonstrating that thermal packaging systems (insulated boxes, gel packs, phase change materials) maintain required temperatures for specified durations under defined ambient conditions. Why It Matters: Qualified packaging is essential for pharmaceutical cold chain shipments. Provides documented evidence of temperature protection duration. Required for GDP compliance and high-value product protection. Qualification Parameters:– Temperature range maintained– Duration of protection–…
Pallet
Flat wooden, plastic, or metal platform used for stacking, storing, and transporting goods. Standard size in South Africa is 1200mm x 1000mm (Europallet) or 1200mm x 1200mm.
Pathogen
Microorganism (bacteria, virus, parasite) that can cause disease. Temperature control is primary method of controlling pathogenic bacteria in cold chain.
Pharmaceutical Range
The strict +2°C to +8°C temperature range required for most vaccines, biologics, and temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals per GDP (Good Distribution Practice) requirements.