95kPa leakproof transport bags are a safety requirement for transporting Biological Samples Category B by air. In very basic terms, it means that the biohazard bag must withstand an internal pressure of not less than 95kPa.

What is 95kPa? 

The IATA regulations state that the packaging for which liquid retention is an essential function must be capable of withstanding, without leakage, an internal pressure differential of no less than 95kPa.

Why do you need a 95kPa receptacle when transporting UN3373 Biological Substances Category B?

Suppose there is a potential for the substance to be sent by air. IATA regulations require that the packaging (secondary) withstand an internal pressure difference of not less than 95kPa. There is a potential for specimen leakage at high altitudes in transit, or worse, the bag can burst when there is a significant air pressure change! When the sample is potentially infectious, it is vital to protect postal staff, laboratory staff, and other key workers who may handle the package. It also raises the concern that it may contaminate other samples.

What is a 95kPa specimen transport bag?

A secondary packaging, transport bag tested and compliant to transport primary receptacles containing UN3373 biohazardous substances. The bag must, in some cases (for Biological Substances Category B), include an absorbent pad. The pad collects leakage if the primary receptacle is compromised. The absorbent also acts as a second layer of protection against leakage. Leakage of a sample can cause contamination and potentially infection. The bag must also have space for information to accompany the sample being transported and be clearly labelled.

A 95kPa bag provides an extra protective layer of protection against Biological Hazard or potential hazards in the primary receptacle. It can withstand the air pressure changes during air travel. It not only protects the sample in transit but ensures safe handling for the postal, lab and key workers when handling the packages.

When to use a 95kPa bag 

There are a few situations in which this bag is required. One such time is to meet the P650 packaging instruction for Air transport (IATA). IATA states that either the primary or secondary container must have been explicitly tested to withstand a 95kPa pressure differential. Therefore, a leakproof container, which has not passed the 95kPa pressure differential test, can only be used for sample transport when combined with a secondary container that has passed the appropriate test.

A 95kPa bag must also be used when the inner package or sample container does not comply with 95kPa or when the pressure resistance of the primary receptacle is unknown.

What is the maximum volume for a 95kPa bag Category B?

The maximum volume per primary receptacle is 1L, and the maximum volume per outer is 4L.

95kPA Solutions provided by shuttlepac include the award-winning ShuttlePouch™

Shuttlepac can supply 95kPa compliant pouches. The award-winning ShuttlePouch is independently certified by an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory. Meaning we can provide certified leakproof bags for any of your Biohazard Transport needs. Contact us today to learn more about how to help solve your packaging needs with our innovative solutions that go above and beyond P650 packaging instruction for Air Transport (IATA).

Contact us today websales@shuttlepac.com