Guidance

How to pack and label samples for submission to APHA

Send samples (classified as UN3373 biological substance category B) to APHA according to the ADR regulations and P650 packing instructions.

From:
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and Animal and Plant Health Agency
Published
28 October 2024

You must follow this guide for the collection, preparation and dispatch of samples to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Compliance with these instructions will ensure transport requirements by road are met.

Packing samples - general information

Generally, you must pack samples in at least 3 main components:

  • primary receptacle
  • secondary packing
  • outer packaging

Either the secondary packing or the outer packaging must be rigid.

Packing liquid samples

For packaging liquids (for example, blood, milk or urine):

  • the primary receptacle must be leak proof
  • the secondary packaging must be leak proof
  • multiple primary receptacles must be individually wrapped or separated to prevent contact between them
  • include absorbent material between the primary receptacle and secondary packing
  • the packaging must be capable of withstanding internal pressure of 95kpa

Packing solid substances

For packaging solids (for example, animal tissues, whole carcases, animal feed or dust):

  • the primary receptacle must be sift proof
  • the secondary packing must be sift proof
  • multiple primary receptacles must be individually wrapped or separated to prevent contact between them
  • if residual liquid may be present, absorbent material must be used

Frozen or refrigerated samples

APHA generally do not require private veterinary surgeons to use ice, dry ice or liquid nitrogen to keep samples frozen.

If you are asked to use ice, dry ice or liquid nitrogen when packing samples, contact APHA for further advice.

Labels and information on the outer packaging

Include all the following on the outer packaging:

  • a UN3373 label (50mm x 50mm)
  • ‘Biological substance category B’ in letters at least 6mm high

You must also include the following information on the outer packaging:

Test specifications

  • Tests
  • Department
  • Contact name

Sender details

  • Reference number
  • Name
  • Address

Also include

  • The name and address of the relevant APHA laboratory
  • Storage conditions +4°C unless specified otherwise
  • ‘Fragile handle with care’
  • ‘Pathological specimen’

If the consignment is made up of multiple packages, each individual package containing samples must include this information.

Regulations

The carriage of any sample material must be in accordance with Carriage of Dangerous Goods Regulations and the correct United Nations (UN) number assigned.

Further guidance on the UN classification and packing instructions can be found in the ADR regulations:

Updates to this page

Published 28 October 2024

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