Further to the comments on the possibility of the Royal Mail withdrawing
their services for the transport of diagnostic samples. This is only the
tip of the iceberg. Others may already be aware ( although I only found out
in the past 2 weeks) , of new European regulations that came into force in
September 1996 concerning the transport of diagnostic samples by road,
rail, sea or air.
The Transport of Dangerous Goods etc. Regulations 1996, which clearly
identifies diagnostic samples, (including lyophilised samples), in the
category of dangerous goods, sets some very rigorous standards for the
transport of diagnostic samples. The standards are such that it could
become an intolerable burden on pathology departments in terms of the cost
of packaging materials and the staff time involved in packing samples for
transport.
Because the new regulation covers transport of samples on any public road
by private as well as public transportation means, they affect the
transport of samples between laboratories, between hospitals and
laboratories, and between GP surgeries and laboratories, by private
vehicles.
Basically this means individually wrapping every sample in absorbent
material. Placing this inside a primary rigid container, wrapping the
primary rigid container inside more absorbent wrapping and placing this
inside a secondary rigid container. Finally placing the whole thing inside
a strong cardboard container with appropriate identification.
The new regulation allows a maximum of 5 years for full implimentation,
(though they are expected to be implemented earlier), with a deadline of
September 2001. However, the effect will be felt earlier for postal
samples, because even if the Royal Mail agree to continue their service
they will stipulate that the new regulations are implemented from the 1st
Jan 1999.
Title of Regulations "Approved requirements and test methods for the
classification and packaging of dangerous goods for carriage: Carriage of
Dangerous Goods(Classification, Packaging and Labelling) and use of
Transportable Pressure Receptacles Regualtion 1996
ISBN 071761221X
Available from Health and Safety Executive
Malcolm Stewardson
Biochemistry & Haematology Department
Pontefract General Infirmary
West Yorkshire
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