Tim Pasma, Andrew Brooks

Animal Health Laboratory, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON.

AHL Newsletter 2024;28(2):4.

When shipping bodies for postmortem at the AHL, it is important to package the submission carefully to prevent leaks.  Leaking packages are a potential zoonotic risk to clinic staff, courier drivers and laboratory staff.

The body should be packaged in accordance with the standards for Transportation of Dangerous Goods type P650 packaging (formerly referred to as a 1B container).  This packaging should contain 3 layers: 2 layers of inner packaging and 1 layer of outer packaging.

 For inner packaging, wrap the body in leak proof material (e.g., triple wrapped in plastic bags), surrounded by absorbent material.  Next, add the layer of secondary leak proof packaging (e.g., a biohazard bag).  Ice packs (not ice cubes) can be added as required to keep the sample cool, especially in hot weather.

The outer packaging should be a rigid impervious container such as a Rubbermaid tote or plastic container with latches.

 If you have a large or unusual specimen, please contact us first to discuss the plan for shipping.

Please plan your shipping so that samples do not arrive or become delayed in transit on weekends or holidays.   AHL