Packaging of Category A and Category B infectious substances (Class 6, Division 6.2) and clinical, (bio) medical or regulated medical waste

Note: The title and scope for this NOI was updated by the responsible SDO on March 30 ,2021.

1.1 Organization and content

This National Standard of Canada sets out requirements for designing, manufacturing, marking, testing, selecting and using means of containment for the transportation of Category A and Category B infectious substances in Class 6, Division 6.2, solid medical waste of Category A and clinical, (bio) medical or regulated medical waste.

This standard consists of three parts and one annex.

Part I contains the requirements for the design, test, manufacture and marking of type P620 and type P650 packaging. 

Part II contains the requirements for the selection and use of means of containment (i.e. packaging) for infectious substances of Category A and Category B. 

Part III contains the requirements for the selection and use of standardized and non-standardized means of containment for the transport of clinical, (bio) medical or regulated medical waste.

Annex A contains the minimum requirements for the completion of a packaging design report.

1.2 Application

This standard applies to both standardized and non-standardized means of containment as defined in the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations.

1.3 Minimum requirements

This standard sets out certain minimum requirements for designing, manufacturing, selecting, using, and testing of means of containment. It is essential to exercise competent technical and engineering judgment in conjunction with this standard.

It is the responsibility of the packaging manufacturer to ensure that the packaging will safely carry out its intended function within these constraints.

1.4 Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act and Regulations prevalence

The Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, 1992 (TDG Act), and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDG Regulations) may call for additional requirements regarding the design, manufacture, selection, use, and test of means of containment. Where there is an inconsistency between the requirements of this standard and those of the TDG Act or TDG Regulations, the Act or Regulations prevail to the extent of the inconsistency.

It should be noted that this standard, by itself, does not have the force of law unless it is officially adopted by a regulatory authority. It is recommended to read the standard in conjunction with the TDG regulations.

1.5 Safety

The testing and evaluation of a product against this standard may require the use of materials and/or equipment that could be hazardous. This document does not purport to address all the safety aspects associated with its use. Anyone using this standard has the responsibility to consult the appropriate authorities and to establish appropriate health and safety practices in conjunction with any requirements prior to its use.

1.6 Units

Quantities and dimensions used in this standard are given in SI units. 

1.7 Classification

Dangerous goods are classified in accordance with Part 2 of the TDG Regulations and the appropriate UN number, shipping name and description, class, division, packing group/category, as applicable, are assigned.