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U.S. Department of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Icon United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation

PHMSA Safety Advisory Notice for the Transportation of COVID-19 Diagnostic Samples

UN3373 COVID 19 Safety Advisory.pdf (346.58 KB)

PHMSA plays a leading role in ensuring the safe transportation of hazardous materials in commerce throughout the United States.  As a result of the ongoing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency, certain shipments of COVID-19 diagnostic samples (e.g., nasal swabs, vials of sputum, and other related items) are classified as a Category B infectious substance (Division 6.2) hazardous material under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR). 

Recent compliance inspections and found several instances of improperly marked or packaged diagnostic samples that were offered for transportation.  In response, PHMSA is issuing this Safety Advisory Notice to provide information on the HMR related to offering and transporting these materials.

DOT is committed to ensuring that information is available in appropriate alternative formats to meet the requirements of persons who have a disability. If you require an alternative version of files provided on this page, please contact PHMSA-Accessibility@dot.gov.
Effective Date: Friday, June 19, 2020
Issued Date: Friday, June 19, 2020