Transportation of Infectious or Potentially Infectious Material
The transportation of infectious or potentially infectious material whether it be between laboratories within a department/faculty, or between institutions involves a level of risk of unintentional release of the material to the environment. This may be due to the inappropriate selection of containers (primary and secondary), means of transportation, and/or travel route. In addition, there are legal requirements which regulate how this material may be transported (Transport Canada -Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TC-TDG)). For this reason, an appropriate level of consideration must be given in determining:
- if the material must be transported at all (can the supporting experimental apparatus be taken to the samples),
- the packaging requirements (primary and secondary containers, dry ice etc),
- means and route of transportation (use of cart with guard rails, low traffic area etc.), and
- regulatory requirements such as: classification, labeling, signing, documenting.
ORM is available to help address your needs in assessing each of these issues.
Transfer of Material between Researchers
Due to the evolving security issues surrounding specific agents, more stringent requirements may be implemented at any time by agencies within Canada and internationally. For this reason ORM must be informed of your intent to transfer material.
It is important to note that in cases where an importation permit has been issued by Health Canada or the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, there may be a need to seek prior authorization from the appropriate agency to transfer this material. The permit itself should state if this is required.
Transfer of Material Off Campus
TC-TDG regulations must be met if there is a need to transport infectious or potentially infectious material off the campus, including between campuses. These regulations are engaged regardless of the means of transport (road, rail, air). In addition, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) also regulates transportation of this material. Strict training and certification requirements have been set by both agencies with regards to the shipping and receiving requirements. The ORM on behalf of the University of Ottawa maintains a list of authorized individuals, and therefore must be consulted should you wish to arrange transfer.
Procedures for the Exportation/Shipping of Biological Material