All samples or specimens should be placed in robust plastic containers (supplied by pathology stores), which should then in turn be placed into a small, sealable plastic marsupial bags, with any associated request forms in the side pouch of the bag. Occasionally a number of these bags will be placed in larger clear plastic sealable outer bags.
Specimens must be delivered to the correct delivery points, to avoid delays in sample analysis.
The Pathology Departments are located in 3 areas of the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford site), the Cellular Pathology (Histology and Cytology) department is located in the Old Pathology Building (please see Contact Us page for location map)
For advice on transport and delivery of specimen samples please contact the Pathology Block specimen reception team on: 01392 402913
Health and Safety Instructions
As mentioned above, the samples are sent in durable, plastic containers, which are then securely sealed into polythene bags and placed in a rigid container. The risk of coming into contact with any samples is therefore remote. In spite of this low risk, it must be remembered that all biological samples potentially pose a risk and therefore must be handled and carried in accordance with instructions.
The following key aspects apply at all times:
• Cover any open cuts/abrasions etc.
• Carry and transport specimens in the approved transport containers provided.
• Do not accept any samples not sealed into a plastic bag.
• Do not collect any sample that is leaking from its container. If the specimen leaks after collection and transport, but is contained within its bag deliver it to the Laboratory and alert a member of Reception staff to the situation. Spill kits are available at pathology reception areas.
• If a specimen leaks onto your work clothes, you should remove the contaminated clothing as soon as possible and then wash your hands.
• Do not take the clothing home for laundering. Report the accident to one of the senior laboratory staff and your supervisor as soon as possible.
Diagnostic Specimens are categorised under UN3373 and therefore if sent in the Royal Mail or external post must be packaged according to postal regulations 650
• The primary receptacle(s) must be leak proof and must not contain more than 500ml. This must be labelled ‘Biological Substance UN3373’
• There must be a robust secondary container and absorbent material. The absorbent material, such as a swab pad must be in sufficient quantity to absorb the entire contents of the primary receptacles and there must be a secondary packaging around this that is also leak proof.
• For substances shipped at ambient temperatures or higher the primary receptacles (glass, plastic or metal) must have positive measures taken to ensure a leak proof seal, such as heat seal, skirted stopper or metal crimp seal provided. If screw caps are used these must be reinforced with adhesive tape.
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