Using the flow chart on the DOT job aid, what is the classification of the TB Sputum sample?

Using the flow chart on the DOT job aid, what is the classification of the TB Sputum sample?

• A. Category A
• B. Exempt
• C. Category B
• D. UN3373

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that infectious substances are categorized by risk, with Category A for the highest-risk substances and Category B for infectious substances that still require proper containment but do not meet Category A criteria. A TB sputum sample is a clinical diagnostic specimen that can contain infectious material, but when it’s being shipped for diagnostic testing and is properly packaged, it does not meet the criteria for Category A. The flow chart therefore places it in Category B. Keep in mind that Category B corresponds to the actual shipping name UN 3373 (Biological Substance, Category B). The flow chart’s outcome of Category B is the category level, while UN 3373 is the specific UN number used on the packaging. Exempt would apply only if the material posed no infectious risk under the regulations, which isn’t the case for a sputum sample. Category A would be used for higher-risk infectious substances that require the most stringent handling.

The key idea is that infectious substances are categorized by risk, with Category A for the highest-risk substances and Category B for infectious substances that still require proper containment but do not meet Category A criteria. A TB sputum sample is a clinical diagnostic specimen that can contain infectious material, but when it’s being shipped for diagnostic testing and is properly packaged, it does not meet the criteria for Category A. The flow chart therefore places it in Category B.

Keep in mind that Category B corresponds to the actual shipping name UN 3373 (Biological Substance, Category B). The flow chart’s outcome of Category B is the category level, while UN 3373 is the specific UN number used on the packaging. Exempt would apply only if the material posed no infectious risk under the regulations, which isn’t the case for a sputum sample. Category A would be used for higher-risk infectious substances that require the most stringent handling.