Which of the following is true about shipping HLA tissue samples on dry ice by air via FedEx?

• A. They must be moved by ground transport
• B. They should be classified as exempt human specimens
• C. They require a full hazard declaration
• D. They must be accompanied by a Category A labeling

Answer: (B)

Exempt human specimens are shipments that aren’t treated as dangerous goods because they don’t pose a biological hazard. HLA tissue samples, provided they are non-infectious and contain no viable pathogens, fit this category. That means they can be sent by air under the exempt rules and don’t require a full hazard declaration or Category A labeling. If the material were infectious or contained viable agents, it would be regulated as an infectious substance and would need Category A labeling and a hazard declaration, and the shipping method or packaging requirements would change accordingly.