In the fast-paced world of clinical trials, efficient storage and handling of sensitive materials are vital. Whether you’re operating within a small clinical site or managing a complex clinical trial supply chain, one thing remains consistent: maintaining the integrity of trial samples can make or break a study.

While much attention is given to trial design, recruitment and data collection, a silent hero in the background is the equipment used to preserve sample quality. Among these, under-counter fridges are gaining popularity as a practical and cost-effective solution. These compact units are specifically engineered to support the stringent demands of clinical research, helping streamline workflows and protect sample data integrity.

Why Under-Counter Refrigeration Matters in Clinical Trials

Not every clinical trial needs large-scale storage systems. In fact, many research projects only handle a small volume of temperature-sensitive materials at any one time. Using oversized refrigeration for these purposes wastes both energy and space, which is where under-counter units come into play.

Space-Saving, Smart Design

Under-counter fridges are built to fit into tight laboratory or clinical site environments without compromising functionality. Their compact footprint makes them ideal for small research rooms or shared lab spaces, allowing teams to make the most of every square metre.

Fits seamlessly beneath counters or worktops
Frees up space for additional clinical research instruments
Easy integration into existing lab setups

This design benefit is especially useful in small clinical research centres, where room is limited and every square inch counts.

Ideal for Small Sample Quantities

Many trials only require short-term preservation of small amounts of blood, tissue, or medication samples. Large refrigeration units in these cases are not only excessive, but they can also create unneeded variables. Under-counter models are proportionate to these needs and help ensure efficient use of resources.

Temperature Control and Data Integrity

Maintaining appropriate temperature control is critical for protecting the data integrity of clinical trial materials. Under-counter medical refrigerators are equipped with modern temperature monitoring systems to keep products stable at all times.

This degree of control is crucial for clinical trial logistics, where Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and regulatory requirements cannot be compromised.

Features to look for include:

Digital temperature display and alarms
Remote monitoring capability
Automatic data logging for audit trails

These features help ensure samples are kept within the required range, reducing the risk of spoilage or deviation that could compromise your results.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Running large laboratory equipment consumes significant power. Smaller under-counter units are designed to operate efficiently, helping research facilities reduce both their energy bills and environmental footprint.

In a world increasingly focused on green practices, switching to energy-efficient refrigeration contributes to more sustainable clinical supply chain operations.

Supporting Sample Security and Segregation

Different sample types often require dedicated storage to prevent cross-contamination. Under-counter fridges make it easier to assign specific units to different materials – whether that’s blood samples, temperature-sensitive drugs or biologics.

By isolating storage by sample type, these compact units help:

Prevent contamination risks
Maintain sample stability
Support trial compliance documentation

This is particularly important in trials involving multiple patient groups, drug formulations or sampling timepoints.

Easier Access, Better Workflow

Frequent sample access is common in many clinical studies. Under-counter fridges, placed close to workstations, support faster access and reduce unnecessary movement across the lab. This improves the workflow and supports better adherence to time-critical protocols.

They are especially useful in busy clinical research equipment rooms where speed, access and sample condition are closely monitored.

Cost-Effective Storage for Budget-Conscious Trials

Not every study comes with an unlimited budget. Research teams often face funding constraints that demand careful selection of equipment. Under-counter refrigeration delivers:

Lower purchase costs than large upright models
Reduced maintenance expenses
Long-term operational savings

When margins are tight, these units provide a balance of performance and value, allowing research to continue without compromise.

ARCTIKO: Supporting Clinical Trials Around the Globe

At ARCTIKO, we understand the unique challenges of the clinical supply chain. That’s why we’ve developed a range of high-performance under-counter refrigeration and freezer units tailored for clinical research storage.

Our products are trusted by research teams worldwide for their:

Precise temperature control
Compact, durable design
Built-in compliance features

Whether you’re running a decentralised study, managing storage at multiple clinical sites, or handling clinical trial logistics across international regions, ARCTIKO units can support your needs with reliable, cost-effective performance.

Talk to Our Experts

Looking for the right clinical trial equipment to support your next study? Our team is here to help.

UK: +44 1725 531000
US: +1 615 988 7000
sales@arctiko.com

Let us help you find the best refrigeration solution for your clinical trials, ensuring compliance, reliability and peace of mind at every stage of your study.