Getting Contraceptives to the Client

Manager's Checklist for an Acceptable Storage Facility

	Adequate ventilation	Prevents spoilage due to excessive heat.
	Adequate lighting	A warehouse should be well-lit so it is easy to see product identification marks and labels. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or fluorescent light, which can reduce the shelf-life of contraceptives.
	Dry storage area	Water destroys contraceptive supplies and their packaging. Roofs should be checked for leaks on a regular basis.
	Use of shelves and pallets	Shelving and pallets provide air circulation and facilitate movement of stock and cleaning. In addition, they protect products from damage if flooding occurs.
	Regular cleaning	The facility should be kept neat and dust-free by cleaning roof, walls, and floors regularly.
	Pest-free	Pests should be prevented from getting inside the warehouse. Rodents and insets will eat oral contraceptives or shipping cartons. If necessary, the storage area may need to be disinfected and spayed against insects on a regular basis. Insecticides and other chemicals should be stored in a separate place, away from contraceptives and medical supplies.
	Properly stacked supplies	Cartons should be stacked not more than 2.5 meters high. Supplies should also be stacked at least 10 cm. from the floor and 35 cm. from any wall.
	Safe and secure	Valuable commodities should be stored in locked areas. Maintain a strict key control system and make sure that all doors and windows are well secured. Fire extinguishers should also be kept on the premises and located in an easy-to-reach place.
	Good record keeping	Inventory records of supplies should be accurate and up-to-date.
	Adequate stock levels	The quantity of contraceptives stored should be in accordance with established maximum and minimum inventory levels.
	Assurance of quality	Contraceptives should be checked regularly to ensure product efficacy. Physical inventories should be conducted at least once a year.
	Adequate workspace	The storage facility should provide adequate space for shipping, receiving, and administration.