Category B
If you are presenting Category B substances for transport PI650 must be observed. The essentials are as follows;
The packaging must consist of three components:
- a primary receptacle(s)
- a secondary packaging
- a rigid outer packaging
Note: an itemized list of contents must be enclosed between the secondary packaging and the outer packaging.
Primary receptacles must be packed in secondary packagings in such a way that, under normal conditions of transport, they cannot break, be punctured or leak their contents into the secondary packaging. Secondary packagings must be secured in outer packagings with suitable cushioning material. Any leakage of the contents must not compromise the integrity of the cushioning material or of the outer packaging.
For liquid substances:
- The primary receptacle(s) must be leakproof and must not contain more than 1L;
- The secondary packaging must be leakproof;
- If multiple fragile primary receptacles are placed in a single secondary packaging, they must be either individually wrapped or separated to prevent contact between them;
- Absorbent material must be placed between the primary receptacle and the secondary packaging. The absorbent material, such as cotton wool, must be in sufficient quantity to absorb the entire contents of the primary receptacle(s) so that any release of the liquid substance will not compromise the integrity of the cushioning material or of the outer packaging;
- The primary receptacle or the secondary packaging must be capable of withstanding, without leakage, an internal pressure of 95 kPa in the range of -40°C to 55°C (-40°F to 130°F).
If the substances are to be shipped under Dry Ice or in a Dry Shipper the following must be observed;
- Carbon dioxide, solid (dry ice) or other refrigerant must be placed around the secondary packaging(s) or alternatively in an overpack with one or more complete packages marked in accordance with 6.5.3.1. Interior support must be provided to secure the secondary packaging(s) or packages in the original position after the ice or Carbon dioxide, solid (dry ice) has dissipated. If ice is used, the outer packaging or overpack must be leak-proof. If Carbon dioxide, solid (dry ice) is used, the outer packaging or overpack must permit the release of carbon dioxide gas. The primary receptacle and the secondary packaging must maintain their integrity at the temperature of the refrigerant used.
- Plastic primary receptacles capable of withstanding very low temperatures must be used. The secondary packaging must be capable of withstanding very low temperatures and in most cases will need to be fitted over the primary receptacle individually. Provisions for the consignment of liquid nitrogen must also be fulfilled. The primary receptacle and the secondary packaging must maintain their integrity at the temperature of the refrigerant used.
Before using a Dry Shipper it is important to determine that the Dry Shipper is approved for the shipping of Infectious Substances. Most Dry Shippers claim to be IATA approved. This statement however may only apply to the rules governing the shipment of liquid nitrogen. Because of their “dry” nature such shippers are exempt from the liquid nitrogen regulations. However the rules governing infectious substances apply and in particular the secondary packaging element. Many Dry Shippers do not offer appropriate secondary packaging. An internal stainless steel canister supplied with some Dry Shippers meets the requirements. Please check with the manufacturer that your shipper is approved for infectious substances.
Category B substances do not require packagings bearing UN specification markings. The completed package must be marked and labelled as follows;
- the name and address of the shipper and of the consignee must be provided on each package;
- the name and telephone number of a person responsible must be provided on the Air Waybill or on the package
- the package must bear the UN3373 diamond label and the words Biological substance, Category B adjacent to the label
Category B substances do not require a DGN to be prepared, but they must be indicated on the Air Waybill.
Please see an example of a correctly prepared UN3373 package.