transport & disposal of specimen containers & specimens policy

Pay especial note to restrictions in type of specimen (governed by pathology oranalysis) that can be transferred using this type of system. Note that localcircumstances will dictate precise use of these tools.Model Rules for porters are detailed in Management Instructions and within thisdocument. (Refer to local document control system)6.2 General PublicMembers of the General Public are issued with guidelines on the collection andtransport of specimens as required. This includes the use of urine collectionbottles containing acid preservatives. Safety Data Sheets should be issued witheach specimen container. These should include instructions, for patients andothers, on how to collect a 24h specimen of urine and how to use the bottles.Patients should be encouraged to use Hospital or Health Centre facilities fortransport of specimens to laboratories. They should be discouraged from bringingspecimens to the laboratories by their own means of transport.Model Rules for visitors to the laboratory are detailed in a separate controlleddocument and at the end of this document. (Refer to local document controlsystem)6.3 Receiving LaboratoryClinical laboratories’ reception staff are trained in the proper method of openingthe sealed specimen transport boxes. Boxes contain wadding, which is changedwhen the box is cleaned and/or in the event of a spillage.Specimen containers that are visibly soiled will be dealt with as per departmentalprocedure. The source of origin will be notified should action be required.Biohazard Spill kits are located within laboratory reception areas. All staff aretrained to use these kits. Laboratory staff will not clean spills outside of thelaboratory area unless a formal agreement has been made for them to do so.Model Rules for Laboratory Reception Staff are detailed in a separate controlleddocument . These rules may vary according to local conditions and requirements.(Refer to local document control system)Specimen Transport Page 11 of 29