Specimens are labeled with the patient's name, date and time of collection, source of specimen, and patient's identification. The time received in the laboratory is documented internally, not on the specimen label itself.
According to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, dry ice can be shipped in an unsealed container if it is marked with a Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods label. Dry ice does not pose the same risks as other hazardous materials, so this labeling and packaging method is appropriate for its transportation.
For a minor spill of radioactive material, notifying local authorities is not typically required. The appropriate procedures include placing the package in a plastic bag, following standard decontamination procedures, placing the contained package in a shielded storage area, and surveying and marking the contaminated area.
This risk is not typically associated with the WHMIS symbol for explosive materials. Explosive hazards are more about the potential for sudden reactions, instability, burning, or explosions due to shock, heat, or contact with water. Environmental damage from fumes would be associated with a different hazard symbol, such as one for environmental hazards or toxic substances.
The WHMIS symbol that corresponds to this hazard is likely the symbol for "Health Hazard," which indicates substances that can cause serious health effects such as cancer, respiratory sensitization, reproductive toxicity, specific target organ toxicity, or aspiration hazards.
Level 1 containment, which includes a Level 1 biosafety cabinet, is appropriate when there is a low to moderate risk of aerosol production. This type of cabinet provides a basic level of protection for laboratory personnel and the environment against low-risk biological agents.
According to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI), CLRW is the type of water recommended for routine laboratory assays. CLRW meets specific purity criteria suitable for laboratory testing to ensure accurate and reliable results without introducing contaminants that could interfere with assays.
