IATA Class 6 Packing Instructions Category A Infectious Substances

Infectious substances of Category A must follow Packing Instruction 620. In addition to the general packing instructions, this instruction places additional requirements to prevent leakage and contamination. All packagings must include an inner packaging with a leak-proof primary receptacle, and leak-proof secondary receptacle, and for liquid substances, absorbent material, such as cotton or wool, placed between the primary and secondary receptacles to prevent leakage. If multiple fragile primary receptacles are placed in a single secondary packaging, they must be individually wrapped or separated to prevent contact. The packaging must also contain an itemized list of contents, enclosed between the secondary receptacle and outer packaging. If the substance being transported is suspected of being a Category A infectious substance, the words "Suspected Category A Infectious Substance" must be shown in parentheses following the proper shipping name on the itemized list of contents.

The primary and secondary packaging must be capable of withstanding, without leakage, internal pressure producing a pressure differential of not less than 95 kPa and temperatures in the range of -40° C to 55° C (-40° F to 131° F). The outer packaging must be rigid and the smallest dimension must not be less than 100 mm.

Inner packagings with infectious substances must not be consolidated with inner packagings containing unrelated goods. Other dangerous goods may not be packed within the same packaging unless they are for maintaining viability, stabilizing or preventing degradation, or neutralizing the hazards of the infectious substance.

If the substance is consigned at ambient or higher temperatures, the primary receptacle must be made of glass, metal, or plastic. If the substance is consigned in liquid nitrogen, a plastic primary receptacle capable of withstanding very low temperatures must be used. If the substance is consigned in refrigerated or frozen packages, then ice, carbon dioxide, dry ice, or other refrigerant must be placed around the secondary packaging. Interior supports must be provided to secure the position of the packaging after any ice or dry ice has dissipated. If ice is used, the outer packaging must be leak proof. If dry ice is used, there must be sufficient venting to prevent the buildup of carbon dioxide gas.

Empty packaging must be disinfected or sterilized to sufficiently nullify any hazard, and any label or mark indicating an infectious substance must be removed.

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