Guide to the Application of Genotyping to Tuberculosis Prevention
and Control
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Appendix B: References and Useful Resources
Information on Packaging and Shipping Infectious Substances
Cultures of Mycobacterium tuberculosis are considered “infectious
substances” according to regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation
(DOT) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Shipping
of infectious substances must follow regulations established by
both organizations.
Useful information can be obtained at the following websites:
1. http://hazmat.dot.gov/pubtrain/infect.pdf
Graphic summary of acceptable packaging containers for infectious
substances.
2. http://www.myregs.com/dotrspa/
DOT regulations that pertain to the shipment of hazardous substances.
3. http://www.cdc.gov/od/ohs/biosfty/shipregs.htm
General information about shipping regulations for infectious substances.
Some of the salient regulations:
- Personnel who prepare and ship specimens must receive specific
training and pass a competence examination. Training must be repeated
every 2 years (refresher and update).
- Infectious substances must be packaged according to IATA Packing
Instruction 602 and a shipper’s declaration for dangerous goods
form must be prepared.
- The genotyping laboratory must be notified by fax or e-mail
when a package is shipped.
- Packages must be sent by a carrier that has tracking capability
so that lost packages can be located.
Note: Dry ice must not be used unless other IATA precautions and
regulations are followed.
Last Reviewed: 05/18/2008 Content Source: Division of Tuberculosis Elimination
National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention
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