Shipping

Anyone intending to ship infectious materials, or biological samples on dry ice must complete Shipping Training. The process for completing this training is described at the Oakland University Laboratory Safety and Compliance web site at the below link: Shipping of Hazardous Materials .

Transportation

Any researcher or staff intending to transport biological, diagnostic, or genetically modified specimens in a vehicle will be required to develop procedures for the safe transportation of the material too and from Oakland University. At a minimum, the following transportation guidelines must be included when developing transportation procedures. Transportation Guidelines (Researcher/Staff transporting specimens)

Assure that all personnel have received OU Bloodborne Pathogen training and that the annual refresher training is current.
No smoking, eating, or drinking in the vehicle after handling specimens.
Utilize Universal Precaution procedures when handling specimens.
Gloves should be worn when directly handling biological, diagnostic or genetically modified samples.
Triple packaging is required: a) Primary leak proof receptacle b)Secondary leak proof container with absorbent material (sealed baggies are widely used) c)Durable outer container.
All containers must be clearly labeled with biohazard signage.
The outside container should be tightly fastened so that it will not open in case of an accident. A bungee cord can be used if the samples are inside a cooler type container.
Transport specimens in a separate area from the driver. Providing that the weather will not compromise the specimen, the trunk of the vehicle is preferred. If a trunk is not available, the container should be secured (seatbelt).
A spill kit including gloves, 10% bleach, paper towels, plastic disposable bag, and scooper should be available at all times. Never pickup broken glass with your hands.
Samples should never be left unattended.

Shipping and Transportation

Shipping

Transportation