Research Laboratory Detects Open -80ºC Lab Freezer Door Using Door Contact Sensor

Using Door Contact Sensors to Detect Open Freezer Door

The SafetyNet team detected an active alarm for a -80ºC freezer door that had been left open and unattended. Even though the customer confirmed the door was closed, SafetyNet could see in the XiltriX system that it was not closed properly. This kept the alarm active and delayed the freezer from going back into the proper temperature range. SafetyNet persisted with the customer, and after 7 calls and 13 emails, the customer’s staff finally confirmed that the door indeed had been left ajar and it was now properly shut. 

Solution

Despite being in the facility when SafetyNet reached out, the customer was unaware of the situation and disregarded the alarm. The customer assured SafetyNet that they would involve the facilities team to check on the unit and requested a follow-up call in an hour. However, the freezer door remained open an hour later, and when the SafetyNet agent reached out, the customer postponed assistance for an additional two hours since they were very busy and unable to check the unit. This dropped on the priority list for them, but not for SafetyNet. Six hours later after persistent follow-ups, the customer’s facilities team stated they had closed the door. 

Normally, the story would end here. But in this case, the system still showed an active door alarm. XiltriX’s door contact sensors allow SafetyNet to identify a potential issue, even if the temperature remains within normal ranges. If a freezer door is left ajar, humidity will cause ice to build up on the door seal. As the ice slowly accumulates, the gap grows and the temperature starts increasing, eventually leading to a dangerous situation. Adding door contacts to all cold storage devices is a cost-effective way to add a layer of protection to sensitive assets by reducing reaction time and adding valuable information about the root cause of a temperature excursion. SafetyNet persisted until all issues were resolved, preventing additional alarms and a deteriorating situation.

XiltriX Benefits

This case highlights the vital role of Monitoring-as-a-Service and the impact of working with a provider that offers 24/7 live agent support, effective communication, and helps you make data-driven decisions to prevent potential asset losses due to freezer failures. SafetyNet acted as a second line of defense and an extension of the team. They ensured the system was working properly so no alarms would be missed.

What is SafetyNet?

SafetyNet is a team of monitoring experts who provide 24/7 live support. In addition to being on every alarm escalation protocol, the SafetyNet team will assist you with system configuration and administration, troubleshooting, unlimited training, live phone calls, and they’ll act as an extension of your team.

With 30+ years of monitoring experience, XiltriX are industry experts. XiltriX North America is ISO 9001:2015 and SOC2 Type 1 certified. Book a demo today to learn how XiltriX can save your science.