For Infectious Agents Transportation rules and regulations are designed to protect the shipper, carrier, public, receiver, and the environment from the point of origin to the destination. The correct and legal transport of dangerous goods is the direct responsibility of the shipper. Although there are multiple sets of regulations, the content is becoming more consistent. This manual is prepared by the Harvard University Biosafety Office to aid the Harvard research community in the transportation of infectious agents. We have held quarterly classroom training sessions and plan to continue them.
Training is required for anyone involved in the transport of dangerous goods.
For more information, contact the Biosafety Office at 432-1720. Introduction Various federal and international agencies, including the Department of Transportation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, have guidelines and regulations detailing the packaging, labeling and documenting of shipments containing infectious agents and diagnostic materials. Shipping firms are refusing to handle packages that are in violation of regulations. This has resulted in research delays, loss of materials and frustration. The first step in complying with the regulations is to know the nature of your material.