When preparing specimens for shipment, which containment step is required?

When preparing specimens for shipment, which containment step is required?

• A. Use a rigid metal container
• B. Label with 'Exempt Human Specimen' only
• C. Place the collection box inside a leak-proof bag
• D. Send without additional containment

Answer: (C)

The key idea is ensuring containment beyond the initial container to prevent leaks during transport. After the specimen is placed in its primary container, adding a leak-proof bag around the collection box provides secondary containment. This step catches any leaks from the inner container and protects handlers and the environment from exposure or spills as the package moves through transit. The other options don’t fulfill this containment role: a rigid metal container isn’t the required containment step in this context and isn’t necessary for all shipments; labeling with “Exempt Human Specimen” doesn’t provide containment on its own; sending without any containment clearly violates safe shipping practices and regulations.

The key idea is ensuring containment beyond the initial container to prevent leaks during transport. After the specimen is placed in its primary container, adding a leak-proof bag around the collection box provides secondary containment. This step catches any leaks from the inner container and protects handlers and the environment from exposure or spills as the package moves through transit.

The other options don’t fulfill this containment role: a rigid metal container isn’t the required containment step in this context and isn’t necessary for all shipments; labeling with “Exempt Human Specimen” doesn’t provide containment on its own; sending without any containment clearly violates safe shipping practices and regulations.