Blood is collected at body temperature (37℃) and can be stored at temperatures of 2- 6℃ for up to 35 days. After collection, blood is processed into its components (red cell concentrates, plasma, platelets), which require different temperatures for storage. Plasma is stored at -30℃ or below, platelets at 20-24℃ with agitation, while red blood concentrates are stored at 2-6℃.

There are two ways to store blood and blood components:

(1) Refrigerator, freezer and platelet cabinets;

(2) Walk-in cold rooms and freezer rooms.