See also: Transport of specimens to the laboratory

It is the responsibility of the submitter to ensure that specimens are packed to comply with transport regulations, and that they don't deteriorate or their containers break or leak during transit.

Most specimens can be transported as Biological Substance Category B (IATA packing instruction 650) as defined by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The current edition of the 'The Dangerous Goods Regulations', published annually by the IATA, should be consulted for advice on specimen packaging requirements. As requirements for transport can change, submitters should consult with their transport agent to obtain current requirements.

NSW Department of Primary Industries does not supply specimen containers or consumables.

On request, recyclable specimen containers or eskies will be returned to submitters. There is a small charge for this service.

IATA packing instruction 650 (Biological Substance Category B)

This instruction covers the labelling and packaging of diagnostic specimens as defined by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Virtually all submissions sent by veterinarians to laboratories satisfy this definition of Biological Substance Category B and must be packed accordingly.

See Guidelines for packaging diagnostic specimens for practical advice on packaging to comply with IATA packing instruction 650.

A number of companies sell suitable packaging, but by far the most common outer container is the foam esky enclosed within a rigid cardboard box.

A Diamond label stating UN3373 inside the diamond and the wording Biological Substance Category B under the diamond must be attached to the outer box or esky.

The total volume allowance for IATA Packing Instruction 650 is to be recorded on the freight docket and is:

• Unrestricted (for material not known to contain Infectious Substances), or
• Max 500 ml (for material with low probability of containing Infectious Substances).

The Consignment Note* must include the following details:

• Biological Substance Category B
• Net quantity (weight) and
• UN number (3373)

*Pre-addressed Consignment Notes carrying the Account Number of NSW Department of Primary Industries (to charge the cost of freight to the laboratory) are available from your Regional Veterinary Laboratory.

IATA packing instruction 602 (Infectious Substances)

This instruction covers the labelling and packaging of Infectious Substances Category A as defined by IATA.

Submissions satisfying this IATA definition of Infectious Substances Category A are those that contain agents capable of causing serious communicable disease. eg Hendra virus (equine morbillivirus) and Nipah virus.

Infectious Substances must be packed by a person trained by an IATA-approved trainer within the past two years.

Infectious Substances must be accompanied by a Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods that includes the following details:

• Infectious substances affecting animals (UN Number 2900) or Infectious substances affecting humans (UN Number 2814)
• Net quantity (weight) of sample(s) and
• UN number (2900 or 2814)