How to package samples of Category A
In the transport of infectious substances, according to the Guidance on regulations for the transport of infectious substances 2013-2014 (WHO), substances classified as Category A are transported in a form that, when exposure to them, are capable of causing permanent disability, life endangering or fatal disease to humans or animals previously healthy.
In category A are included substances such as Ebola virus, Masburg virus, Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis), Hantaan virus, dengue virus or Machupo virus and many others (see list full here)
Infectious substances in Category A may only be carried in packages/containers that meet the specifications for the class 6.2 UN Packing Instruction P620, ensuring that pass stringent resistance tests (freefall from 9 m., drilling, compressive strength and stacking). A very important aspect is that the primary container or packaging/secondary packaging must withstand a pressure differential of not less than 95 kPa. The brand typified UN does not indicate that the packaging/container has been subjected to such tests, so users thereof should ask their suppliers if the packaging/container meets this requirement.
The triple packaging system for shipping infectious substances in Category A consists of:
1. Leakproof primary receptacle:
They can be sample tubes, petri dishes, jars of urine, etc. In case of containing liquid samples is accompanied by an absorbent rack safety that in case of breakage should retain all of the transported liquid.
2. Secondary packaging:
Allows you to enter multiple primary receptacles and can support an internal pressure of 95kPa in a temperature range between -40 ° C and +55 ° C.
3. Outer packaging:
It should include elements of stability to ensure the correct position of the secondary packaging and all glyphs required for transport. Water resistant, tensile, impact and chemicals.
