Guidance on regulations for the transport of infectious substances 2019 – 2020: applicable from 1 January 2019
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World Health Organization
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56 p.
The Farsi version is published by the Reference Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health & Medical Education, 14th Floor, Block A, Simaye Iran Street, San'at Square, Tehran, 1134845764, Islamic Republic of Iran
The safe transport of infectious substances is essential to global health security, supporting disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostics and outbreak response while minimizing risks to people and the environment during transit. This guidance outlines internationally harmonized regulatory frameworks governing the transport of infectious materials and describes the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders involved throughout the shipping process. It examines key components including the definition and classification of infectious substances, applicable international and modal regulations, and the distinction between high-risk (Category A) and lower-risk (Category B) materials. The document further describes packaging systems, notably the triple packaging approach, as well as requirements for marking, labelling and transport documentation, including dangerous goods declarations and emergency response information. It also addresses training provisions, competency requirements and the application of exemptions and special provisions. Drawing on United Nations model regulations and their implementation across transport modes, the guidance supports national authorities, laboratory personnel, shippers and carriers in applying consistent practices, highlighting the importance of coordination, regulatory alignment and adherence to standardized procedures for the safe and efficient movement of infectious substances worldwide.
The Farsi version is published by the Reference Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health & Medical Education, 14th Floor, Block A, Simaye Iran Street, San'at Square, Tehran, 1134845764, Islamic Republic of Iran
The safe transport of infectious substances is essential to global health security, supporting disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostics and outbreak response while minimizing risks to people and the environment during transit. This guidance outlines internationally harmonized regulatory frameworks governing the transport of infectious materials and describes the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders involved throughout the shipping process. It examines key components including the definition and classification of infectious substances, applicable international and modal regulations, and the distinction between high-risk (Category A) and lower-risk (Category B) materials. The document further describes packaging systems, notably the triple packaging approach, as well as requirements for marking, labelling and transport documentation, including dangerous goods declarations and emergency response information. It also addresses training provisions, competency requirements and the application of exemptions and special provisions. Drawing on United Nations model regulations and their implementation across transport modes, the guidance supports national authorities, laboratory personnel, shippers and carriers in applying consistent practices, highlighting the importance of coordination, regulatory alignment and adherence to standardized procedures for the safe and efficient movement of infectious substances worldwide.