Which option below is NOT required when shipping Category A and Category B substances?

• A. Exempt human specimen or exempt animal specimen label
• B. Proper shipping name on outer packaging
• C. UN identification number on the packaging
• D. Temperature control label

Answer: (A)

When shipping infectious substances (Category A or Category B), the labeling and markings are there to clearly identify what is being sent and how to handle it safely. You must include the UN identification number on the packaging (for Category A this is UN2814; for Category B it is UN3373) and you must have a proper shipping name on the outer packaging (such as “Infectious substance, affecting humans” for Category A or “Biological substance, Category B” for Category B). Temperature control labeling is required only if the shipment actually requires temperature control to stay within safe limits; if no temperature control is needed, that label isn’t required.

The label for exempt human specimens is not required for Category A or Category B infectious substances because those shipments are regulated hazardous goods, not exempt. Exempt labels apply only to specimens that meet exemption criteria, not to regulated infectious substances.