Faculty and Staff

Shipping: Infectious Substance Description

Last updated August 13, 2009 4:44:12 PM PDT
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If you are shipping an infectious substance, please read the following description.

Regulations

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. An infectious substance is considered a hazardous material. Prior to shipping any hazardous material, you must contact the Shipping Coordinator at (858) 536-3225, Ext. 244.

Definition

The U.S. Department of Transportation and the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) define an infectious substance as a viable micro-organism, or its toxin, that causes or may cause disease in humans or animals.

The following are examples of infectious substances:

  • All cultures containing or suspected of containing an agent which may cause infection
  • Human or animal samples that contain such an agent in quantities sufficient to cause infection, should an exposure to them occur
  • Sample(s) from a patient with a serious disease of unknown cause
  • Other specimens not included above and designated as infectious by a qualified person, e.g. a physician, scientist, nurse, etc.

If you are unsure if your shipment is considered an infectious substance, the UCSD Shipping Coordinator will research your item and advise you. Contact Tom Pugh, (858) 536-3225, Ext. 244.

Further information

To read the regulations concerning the transport of an infectious substance, see:


For more information, contact Tom Pugh, (858) 536-3225, Ext. 244.

Facilities & Services

Hazardous Materials

Departments

Shipping/ Receiving, Surplus