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Transporting Biological Substances Safely: Understanding UN3373 Category B
The movement of biological substances plays a crucial role in diagnosis, treatment and research in medical laboratories, research facilities and everyday healthcare settings. Biological materials that are classed as dangerous goods must be transported safely from the sender, or shipper/consignor, to the receiver to prevent exposure, release or contamination, and to protect workers, the public and the environment.
For anyone involved in preparing, packing or transporting biological substances, it is important to understand how these materials are classified, packaged, marked and handled. Logicom Hub offers a Biological Substances, Category B UN3373 training course to help individuals and businesses understand the safe transport of Category B biological substances.
Biological Substances
The primary safety risk when transporting biological materials lies in the potential exposure to infectious substances, including undiagnosed diseases that are not listed as Category A infectious substances. Biological substances can include human or animal material such as blood, tissue and tissue fluids where pathogens may be present, clinical waste generated during medical treatment, patient specimens that are not exempt, and biological products known to contain pathogens that are not packaged and distributed for use by medical professionals.
These substances are usually classified as UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B. For official guidance on patient samples and UN3373 packaging requirements, the Department for Transport provides useful information through the GOV.UK UN3373 patient samples guidance.
You can also read more about Dangerous Goods Hazard Classes in our guide, including Class 6 substances.
So how is the risk minimised?
The risk is minimised through effective planning, suitable packaging, correct classification and proper training. Robust risk assessment procedures should be in place to identify potential hazards and develop appropriate control measures. This includes selecting suitable packaging materials, implementing hygiene protocols and providing personal protective equipment, where necessary, to those involved in the transport process.
Training is also essential. Anyone involved in the packing, marking, handling or transport of biological substances should understand the risks, know how to use the correct packaging and be able to respond appropriately if something goes wrong. Regular monitoring and compliance checks can also help identify weaknesses and support continuous improvement in safety standards.
For wider dangerous goods transport guidance, businesses can refer to the HSE carriage of dangerous goods guidance, which provides information on the safe transport of dangerous goods by road and rail.
Occupational Hazards for Transporters
In the UK, the transportation of biological substances can be exempt from many road, sea and air dangerous goods requirements, provided the substances are packed in accordance with the relevant packaging instructions. However, this does not mean biological materials are risk-free.
Workers responsible for packaging, loading, unloading and transporting biological materials must still be careful. Exposure can occur if packages are damaged, incorrectly sealed, poorly labelled or not handled correctly. Clear instructions for filling and closing packages must be provided by the packaging manufacturer and any subsequent distributor of the package, especially where the person sealing the package may be a patient.
Occasionally, biological substances need to be transported with dry ice or liquid nitrogen to keep the material refrigerated or frozen. Both dry ice and nitrogen can present asphyxiation risks if not handled correctly, particularly in confined or poorly ventilated spaces. This is why professional handling, suitable packaging and appropriate training are essential.
Packaging Requirements for UN3373
Transporting biological substances requires strict packaging standards to prevent leaks, spills and contamination. Packaging must usually include a leak-proof primary receptacle, leak-proof secondary packaging and absorbent material sufficient to absorb the entire contents if leakage occurs. The outer packaging must be strong enough to withstand normal conditions of transport.
For air shipments, the International Air Transport Association provides Packing Instruction 650 guidance for Biological Substance, Category B.
Logicom Hub has also published further guidance in our UN3373 Biological Substance Air Shipping Guide.
Documentation Requirements
There are generally no full dangerous goods transport document requirements for UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B when it is packed correctly under the relevant packing instruction. However, it is still best practice to clearly communicate that UN3373 is being transported so that all parties in the supply chain understand what is being handled.
This communication is especially important when using couriers, air freight operators or third-party logistics providers, as operators and airlines may have their own acceptance requirements.
Labelling and Marking
Proper marking and labelling of packages containing biological substances is essential for identification and hazard communication. Packages must display the UN3373 diamond mark and the proper shipping name Biological Substance, Category B. The name and address of both the sender and recipient should also be shown clearly, along with suitable emergency contact details.
If dry ice is used, additional marking and labelling may be required because dry ice is also regulated for transport. This is particularly important for air shipments, where airlines and operators may have additional restrictions.
Training and Competency
Personnel involved in the transportation of biological substances must receive adequate training to ensure they understand the risks and know how to handle, package and transport these materials safely. Training should cover classification, packaging, marking, emergency procedures and the use of PPE where required.
Logicom Hub’s Biological Substances, Category B UN3373 course is designed to help learners understand the requirements for safely transporting these substances and build confidence in applying the rules correctly.
Regulatory Authorities
By adhering to regulations and implementing proper safety measures, shippers can mitigate the risks associated with the transportation of infectious substances and support the safe and secure delivery of these materials for medical, research and diagnostic purposes in the United Kingdom.
It is worth remembering that when sending shipments by air, some countries, states or airlines may have restrictions on quantities, or may even refuse to accept packages containing biological substances. Shippers should always check the latest carrier, airline and destination requirements before arranging transport.
Need Advice on Shipping Biological Substances?
Transporting biological substances safely requires knowledge, attention to detail and the right training. By following the correct packaging instructions, applying clear marking and labelling, and ensuring staff are competent, shippers can reduce risk and support safe delivery for medical, diagnostic and research purposes.
For advice, training or support with shipping biological substances, contact Logicom Hub.
Phone: 0330 912 5041 or 01608 692177
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.logicomhub.com
Contact page: Contact Logicom Hub