Samples should be stored at 2-8° C immediately after they are collected and processed, unless noted otherwise for a test.
- Place cold or frozen sample(s) in the biohazard bags.
- Place completed requisition (and insurance information if applicable) for each sample in the pouch of the biohazard bag.
For samples that are shipped refrigerated:
- Place biohazard bag (with sample(s) and requisition form) in the Styrofoam box.
- Place a frozen ice pack (frozen for at least 24 hours) on top of the samples in the Styrofoam box.
- Place Styrofoam box into UPS Laboratory Shipping Pack.
For samples that are shipped frozen:
Dry ice is a hazardous material. Therefore, proper training and personal protective equipment are required for everyone that will be handling dry ice. In addition to completing the necessary training, please review and follow the safety precautions outlined at the following link prior to handling dry ice: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/laboratory/OSHAquickfacts-lab-safety-cryogens-dryice.pdf
- Fill the bottom of a medium CHL Styrofoam box (11x9x12) with enough dry ice to cover the bottom of the box (1-2 inches worth).
- It is the responsibility of the client to comply with the proper handling of dry ice as a hazardous material.
- Wrap the biohazard bag(s) (containing sample(s) and requisition form) in paper towel or packing paper and then place into the Styrofoam box on top of the dry ice. Cover the samples with enough dry ice to completely surround the samples. Fill the remainder of the box with packing paper to prevent shifting of the dry ice and/or samples during transit. Note: from June-September, it is recommended that additional dry ice be added to the shipment to compensate for the warmer temperatures.
- Replace the Styrofoam lid and tape 2 sides of the Styrofoam lid shut, being careful not to tape all 4 sides which may prevent the necessary venting of the evaporating dry ice
- Tape the cardboard outer box closed over the top of the Styrofoam box
- Attach UN 1845 Dry ice label to the outside of the box and fill in the number of kilograms of dry ice used; be careful that the dry ice sticker is placed flat on only 1 side of the box, stickers that span more than 1 side are cause for courier rejection of the shipment
- Attach a FedEx shipping label to the outside of the box