Class 6.2: Infectious Substances

General Information:

Class 6.2 (Infections Substances) contains materials known or suspected to carry pathogens, which are germs like bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi that cause disease in humans or animals. Unlike chemical poisons, these are biologiacal hazards that can spread infection through accidental needle sticks, open cuts, inhalation or ingestion.

Main Hazards:

• May cause disease or infection of humans or animals through contact of any kind.

Examples:

• Medical & Clinical Waste - This includes waste from medical or veterinary treatment such as used needles (sharps), contaminated bandages, disposable surgical instruments and other items that have been in contact with blood or bodily fluids. Because these materials may contain infectious pathogens, they are classified as Class 6.2 Infectious Substances and must be packaged, labelled and transported in approved biohazard containers in accordance with New Zealand dangerous goods regulations.
• Diagnostic Specimens - This refers to human or animal samples which includes blood, urine, tissue swabs or laboratory cultures that are transported for testing or analysis. Where there is a reasonable likelihood that the specimen contains an infectious pathogen, it must be classified, packaged and transported as a Class 6.2 Infectious Substance to prevent disease transmission and protect handlers during transport.