Classification Scenario 1

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Classification Scenario 1

A blood specimen is collected from a patient who is suspected of having Hepatitis B. The specimen will be sent via commercial carrier to a reference laboratory located in the United States for further testing. What classification should be used for appropriate packaging and labeling?
The specimen in this scenario is being sent to a facility in the US. Therefore, you will use the DOT classification decision tree. The specimen is likely to contain an infectious substance (hepatitis B virus). Follow the Yes arrow from the first box on the chart (Is the material known or reasonably expected to contain an infectious pathogen?). This is a patient specimen and not a culture; it is not on the category A indicative list and does not otherwise meet the definition of a category A substance. Follow the No arrow from the second box on the chart. In this scenario, it is a patient specimen that is likely to cause disease (hepatitis) and there is more than a minimal likelihood that pathogens are present (hepatitis B virus). It is not being transported by a private or contract carrier in an exclusive use vehicle; therefore, it does not meet exception §173.134(b)(11). Again, follow the No arrow from the third box on the chart. You would classify this specimen as a UN3373 Biological substance, Category B.