DOT Hazard Class

Class 6.2

Infectious Substance

49 CFR §173.134

Placard: White placard with three-crescent biohazard symbol

ERG entries

Divisions

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Packing groups

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Compat groups

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Definition

A material known or reasonably expected to contain a pathogen — a microorganism (including bacteria, viruses, rickettsiae, parasites, and fungi) or other agent (such as a prion) that can cause disease in humans or animals.

Primary hazards

Inhalation, ingestion, or contact with skin may cause infection
Some pathogens are highly transmissible
Contaminated surfaces and PPE must be decontaminated before disposal
Fire and heat may release the pathogen aerosol

Public safety response

Isolate spill or leak area for at least 25 m (75 ft). Do not touch damaged packages or spilled material without proper protective clothing. Do not inhale dust or vapor.

Common materials in this class

Category A: cultures of Ebola, hemorrhagic-fever viruses, poliovirus, rabies virus (culture), etc. (UN2814/UN2900). Category B: patient specimens, blood, cultures with lower risk (UN3373). Regulated medical waste (UN3291).

UN2814Infectious substance, affecting humans (Category A)UN2900Infectious substance, affecting animals only (Category A)UN3373Biological substance, Category B UN3291Regulated medical waste, n.o.s.

Special provisions / notes

Category A and Category B have different packaging requirements (P620 vs P650). UN3373 in P650 is exempt from many DOT requirements when properly marked.