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UCSD conforms to strict government regulations when transporting hazardous materials. Shipments must arrive at their destination in good condition and present no hazard during shipment. Prior to shipping any hazardous material, you must contact the Shipping Coordinator at (858) 534-7467, Ext. 244.
Diagnostic specimens/ biological substances resulting from medical practice and research are considered a negligible threat to the public health. They are, however, subject to the regulations governing the transport of hazardous material.
Definition: The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) define a diagnostic specimen/ biological substance as any human or animal material including but not limited to excreta, secreta, blood, blood components, tissue, and tissue fluids collected and shipped for the purposes of diagnosis, investigation, or research.
The Proper Shipping Name (PSN) "Diagnostic Specimens" UN3373 is no longer acceptable by the USDOT and IATA. The new PSN is "Biological Substance, Category B" UN3373.
A diagnostic specimen/ biological substance is considered an infectious substance when:
- The specimen is obtained from a patient with suspected infection
- Exposure to the specimen could result in an infection
- The specimen is collected during an investigation of an outbreak of a serious disease of unknown cause
See Infectious Substance Description if your specimen meets any of these criteria.
Note: Live infected animals are forbidden from air transport.
If you are unsure about the regulations concerning shipping a diagnostic specimen/ biological substance, contact Shipping, (858) 534-7467, x244. They will research your item and advise you how to proceed.
To read the regulations concerning the transport of a diagnostic specimen/ biological substance, see:
Questions? Contact Shipping, (858) 534-7467, Ext. 244.
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