University of Maryland • Safety Fact Sheet • Department of Environmental Safety

Transport of Infectious Substances

Introduction

Shipping and packaging of infectious substances, diagnostic specimens, and biological products is regulated by many agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the U.S. Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). IATA regulations apply to shipment of animal pathogens as well as human pathogens. In addition to packaging requirements, the CDC requires a permit to ship human pathogens. Many of the regulations require the use of packaging that is "certified" to meet specific criteria for durability. A list of human pathogens may be found in Appendix B of the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules.

Applicable University Policy

It is University of Maryland policy to comply with all federal regulations.

Applicable Regulations

49 CFR Parts 172 and 173-Department of Transportation Regulations for Infectious Substances and Regulated Medical Waste - DOT.
42 CFR Part 72 - Interstate Shipment of Etiologic Agents - CDC.
IATA - Dangerous Goods Regulations
WHO - Guidelines for the Safe Transport of Infectious Substances and Diagnostic Specimens, 1997

Summary of Requirements

The shipper must:

Classify the material (determine if it is an infectious substance);
Obtain permit from the CDC, if needed;
Package the material according to the applicable regulations;
Mark and label the package;
Document the shipment; and
Receive training every two years.

Training

Training is required prior to shipping infectious substances and every 2 years thereafter. Both general awareness and performance specific training must be provided. DES is available to provide training upon request.

Reporting

Any spill resulting from damage to a package of infectious substances must be reported to the CDC.

Inspections

There are no requirements for inspections.

Recordkeeping

Training records must be maintained for duration of employment plus 90 days.

Written Program

There is no requirement for a written program.

University Resources

Department of Environmental Safety 301-405-3960
DES Fax No. 301-314-9294
Biosafety Officer 301-405-3975
DES Web Site: http://www.des.umd.edu

Written 5/98
Revised 4/02
Reviewed 4/05

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