Samples need to be transported for subsequent processing and testing. Various transport systems can be used, covering long or short distances.
Clinics, practices and laboratories who are posting or transporting samples by air, sea, rail and road between local, regional and reference laboratories, or between laboratories in other countries, must adhere to a number of regulations. These regulations are designed to deal with transportation accidents and spills, reduce biohazards and keep samples intact for testing.
Regulations are given by several sources, including:
- National transport regulations
- IATA
- Rail and road traffic agencies
- Postal services
Compliance is mandatory in order to reduce risk to couriers, carrier, laboratory staff and passengers.