Search

IATA Clarifies Shipping Infectious Substances & COVID-19 Related Hazmat

Posted on 4/6/2020 by Lauren Scott

Last month, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) released information to help hazmat shippers transport infectious substances and hand sanitizer safely and in compliance via air. This new guidance aims to assist supply-chain professionals, aircraft workers, and frequent flyers alike in supporting the fight against COVID-19.

Transporting Infectious Disease Samples

To ensure a continuous, rapid response to suspected cases of COVID-19, it is crucial to ensure that viral samples will ship to laboratories for analysis without delay. The World Health Organization (WHO) says the transport of COVID-19 specimens has been operating smoothly thus far.

However, confusion over how to classify these samples has created a few delays. IATA has said COVID-19 specimens should be classified as UN 3373, Biological substance, Category B and packed in accordance with PI 650. This classification was established after reviewing recommendations from WHO and the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
 

Hand Sanitizer as Aircraft Equipment

WHO recommends the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer as well as washing hands with soap and water to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In order to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their crew, many airlines seek to install hand sanitizer in aircraft lavatories or allow it to be carried in the galley.

However, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are classified as dangerous goods and are not specifically permitted by the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (Technical Instructions) under the provisions for dangerous goods in operator's property. [DGR 2.5, ICAO Technical Instructions Part 1;2.2]

Airlines that wish to allow hand sanitizer in galleys or installed in lavatories must request authorization from their civil aviation authority (State of the Operator) in adherence to the provision that is set out in Part 1;2.2.1 a) of the ICAO Technical Instructions.

Hand Sanitizer in Passenger and Crew Baggage

The IATA DGR establishes allowances for many medicinal and toiletry items (including alcohol-based hand sanitizer) that passengers and crew can have in their checked or carry-on baggage:

The term "medicinal or toiletry articles" is intended to include such items as hair sprays, perfumes, colognes, and medicines containing alcohols. Aerosols in Division 2.2, with no subsidiary hazard, for sporting or home use [DGR Paragraph 2.3.5.1].

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is permitted under these provisions. However, passengers and crew are limited to 100 mL in carry-on luggage. Hand sanitizer is also allowed in checked bags in quantities up to 0.5 L per bottle, not to exceed 2 L total.

Save Your Seat for Spring 49 CFR, IATA DGR, and IMDG Webinars

Join experienced Lion instructors in a series of hazmat webinar training sessions and develop the in-depth expertise you need to keep hazardous materials moving safely and in compliance—by ground, air, and vessel.
Recurrent Hazmat Ground Shipper (DOT)
April 14 and May 7
Hazmat Air Shipper (IATA)
April 15 and May 5
Hazmat Vessel Shipper (IMDG)
April 16 and May 12
 

Tags: coronavirus, COVID-19., dangerous goods, hand sanitizer, hazmat air shipper, IATA, infectious substances, virus, WHO, world health organization

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Lion was very extensive. There was a lot of things that were covered that were actually pertaining to what I do and work with. Great Job. I will be coming back in three years!

Tony Petrik

Hazmat Shipping Professional

The instructor was very knowledgeable and provided pertinent information above and beyond the questions that were asked.

Johnny Barton

Logistics Coordinator

I like Lion's workshops the best because they really dig into the information you need to have when you leave the workshop.

Tom Bush, Jr.

EHS Manager

The instructor's energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge of the subject make the class a great learning experience!

Brian Martinez

Warehouse Operator

The instructor kept the class engaged and made learning fun. There was a lot of information to cover but time flew by. I will definitely use Lion in the future!

Chelsea Minguela

Hazmat Shipping Professional

I was recently offered an opportunity to take my training through another company, but I politely declined. I only attend Lion Technology workshops.

Stephanie Gilliam

Material Production/Logistics Manager

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

The exercises in the DOT hazardous materials management course are especially helpful in evaluating your understanding of course information.

Morgan Bliss

Principal Industrial Hygienist

The course was very informative and presented in a way that was easily understood and remembered. I would recommend this course.

Jeffrey Tierno

Hazmat Shipping Professional

These are the best commercial course references I have seen (10+ years). Great job!

Ed Grzybowski

EHS & Facility Engineer

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Your hazmat paperwork is the first thing a DOT inspector will ask for during an inspection. From hazmat training records to special permits, make sure your hazmat documents are in order.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.