[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 96 (Thursday, May 19, 2005)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 29170-29187]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-9717]



[[Page 29169]]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Part VII





Department of Transportation





-----------------------------------------------------------------------



Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration



-----------------------------------------------------------------------



49 CFR Parts 171, 172, 173, 175



Hazardous Materials: Infectious Substances; Harmonization With the 
United Nations Recommendations; Proposed Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 96 / Thursday, May 19, 2005 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 29170]]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

49 CFR Parts 171, 172, 173, 175

[Docket No. PHMSA-2004-16895 (HM-226A)]
RIN 2137-AD93


Hazardous Materials: Infectious Substances; Harmonization With 
the United Nations Recommendations

AGENCY: Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), 
Department of Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: PHMSA is proposing to revise the transportation requirements 
for infectious substances, including regulated medical waste, to adopt 
new classification criteria and packaging requirements consistent with 
revised international standards and to clarify existing requirements to 
promote compliance. These proposed revisions will ensure an acceptable 
level of safety for the transportation of infectious substances and 
facilitate domestic and international transportation.

DATES: Comments must be received by July 18, 2005.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by any of the following methods:
    Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the 
online instructions for submitting comments.
    Web Site: http://dms.dot.gov. Follow the instructions for 
submitting comments on the DOT electronic docket site. You may view the 
public docket through the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov or in person 
at the Docket Management System office at the above address.
    Fax: 1-202-493-2251
    Mail: Docket Management System, U.S. Department of Transportation, 
400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, Washington, DC 
20590-0001.
    Hand Delivery: To the Dockets Management System; Room PL-401 on the 
plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., 
Washington, DC between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays.
    Instructions: You must include the agency name (Pipeline and 
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration) and docket number (PHMSA-
2004-16895 (HM-226A)) or the Regulatory Identification Number (RIN) for 
this notice at the beginning of your comments. You should submit two 
copies of your comments if you submit them by mail. If you wish to 
receive confirmation that we received your comments, you must include a 
self-addressed stamped postcard. Note that all comments received will 
be posted without change to ``http://dms.dot.gov'', including any 
personal information provided, and will be accessible to Internet 
users. Please see the Privacy Act section of this document.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eileen Edmonson or Deborah Boothe, 
Office of Hazardous Materials Standards, (202) 366-8553, Pipeline and 
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of 
Transportation.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background

    On August 14, 2002, the Research and Special Programs 
Administration (RSPA), the predecessor agency to the Pipeline and 
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), published a final 
rule revising the requirements in the Hazardous Materials Regulations 
(HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180) applicable to the transportation of 
infectious substances, including regulated medical waste (67 FR 53118). 
The final rule made the following changes to the HMR:
     Adopted new classification criteria for infectious 
substances based on defining criteria developed by the World Health 
Organization (WHO) and consistent with standards contained in the 12th 
Revised Edition of the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport 
of Dangerous Goods (UN Recommendations) and the 2003-2004 Edition of 
the International Civil Aviation Organization's Technical Instructions 
for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (ICAO Technical 
Instructions).
     Revised packaging requirements for Division 6.2 materials 
for consistency with international performance standards.
     Eliminated an exception from requirements in the HMR for 
diagnostic specimens and adopted certain packaging and hazard 
communication requirements for these materials. Diagnostic specimens 
transported by private or contract carriers in motor vehicles used 
exclusively for diagnostic specimens continue to be excepted from most 
requirements in the HMR.
     Modified an exception from requirements in the HMR for 
biological products, limiting the exception to biological products 
licensed for use under current Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or 
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations.
     Adopted bulk packaging options for the transportation of 
regulated medical waste (RMW), based on exemption provisions.
     Established new hazard communication requirements for 
shipments of Division 6.2 materials.
    The requirements in the August 14, 2002 final rule became effective 
on February 14, 2003.

II. Issues Related to Current Requirements

    Our August 14, 2002 final rule adopted a risk-group-based 
classification system for infectious substances based on criteria in 
the UN Recommendations. The final rule requires Division 6.2 materials 
to be assigned to risk groups based on the degree to which they cause 
injury through disease, with Risk Group 1 presenting the lowest risk 
and Risk Group 4 presenting the highest risk. Assignment of an 
infectious substance to a risk group is based on the known medical 
history of the source patient or animal, endemic local conditions, 
symptoms of the source patient or animal, or professional judgment 
concerning individual circumstances of the source patient or animal. 
Division 6.2 materials assigned to Risk Group 1 are excepted from the 
HMR and the UN Recommendations.
    The current requirements for assigning pathogens to risk groups are 
based on the risks posed in the laboratory environment, not in the 
transportation environment. Pathogens in transport do not pose the same 
level of risk that they do in the laboratory. Laboratory workers 
perform extensive manipulations of infectious substances that place the 
workers at higher risk of infection because of accidental exposures 
caused by splashes or spills. Moreover, certain laboratory processes--
such as vortexing, mixing, or centrifuging--can generate aerosols or 
airborne particles that can place workers who perform such operations 
at increased risk. These conditions do not exist in transport.
    The risk group classification system resulted in transportation 
problems, including shipper confusion in assigning risk groups, and 
shipment delays or refusal to transport associated with carriers' and 
transport workers' perceptions about the risks associated with the 
transportation of infectious substances. A delay in transportation or a 
refusal to transport a specimen may have life-threatening implications 
for a patient or a population. Moreover,

[[Page 29171]]

transportation problems can delay research necessary to develop 
treatments or slow the spread of disease, and can interfere with the 
implementation of appropriate measures to address new disease 
outbreaks. Because of these transportation problems, the UN Committee 
of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods worked with scientists 
and public health professionals at WHO, the U.S. Centers for Disease 
Control and Prevention (CDC), and other agencies to develop a 
classification scheme for infectious substances that would be more 
appropriate for the transportation environment.
    In December 2002, the United Nations adopted a number of revisions 
for the 13th Revised Edition of the UN Recommendations related to the 
transportation of infectious substances, primarily involving how 
infectious substances are classed and packaged. In July 2004, the UN 
Committee of Experts on Dangerous Goods recommended further revisions 
to these standards; these revisions were adopted for the 14th Revised 
Edition of the UN Recommendations in December 2004. At the same time, 
the ICAO Dangerous Goods panel adopted many of the amendments for the 
14th Revised Edition of the UN Recommendations in the 2005-2006 Edition 
of the ICAO Technical Instructions through an addendum to the ICAO 
Technical Instructions.
    The amendments in the 13th and 14th Editions of the UN 
Recommendations are the result of long and thoughtful consultations 
among regulators, scientists, medical professionals, and the transport 
community. The result is a set of standards for the transportation of 
infectious substances that are easier to use and impose a high level of 
safety appropriate to the degree of risk and conditions of transport.
    The requirements adopted for the UN Recommendations establish a 
two-tiered classification system for Division 6.2 materials--Category A 
and Category B. A Category A infectious substance poses a higher degree 
of risk than a Category B infectious substance. A Category A material 
is an infectious substance that is transported in a form that is 
capable of causing permanent disability or life-threatening or fatal 
disease to otherwise healthy humans or animals when exposure to it 
occurs. An exposure occurs when an infectious substance is released 
outside of its protective packaging, resulting in physical contact with 
humans or animals. Category A infectious substances are assigned to UN 
2814 (for substances that cause disease in humans or in both humans and 
animals) or UN 2900 (for substances that cause disease in animals 
only). The following are examples of Category A infectious substances. 
Please note this list is not all inclusive and is provided only as 
guidance.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
UN number and proper shipping name             Micro-organism
------------------------------------------------------------------------
UN 2814:
Infectious substances affecting     Bacillus anthracis (cultures only)
 humans and animals.
                                    Brucella abortus (cultures only)
                                    Brucella melitensis (cultures only)
                                    Brucella suis (cultures only)
                                    Burkholderia mallei--Pseudomonas
                                     mallei--Glanders (cultures only)
                                    Burkholderia pseudomallei--
                                     Pseudomonas pseudomallei (cultures
                                     only)
                                    Chlamydia psittaci--avian strains
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Clostridium botulinum (cultures
                                     only)
                                    Coccidioides immitis (cultures only)
                                    Coxiella burnetti (cultures only)
                                    Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever
                                     virus
                                    Dengue virus (cultures only)
                                    Eastern equine encephalitis virus
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Escherichia coli, verotoxigenic
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Ebola virus
                                    Flexal virus
                                    Francisella tularensis (cultures
                                     only)
                                    Guanarito virus
                                    Hantaan virus
                                    Hantaviruses causing hemorrhagic
                                     fever with renal syndrome
                                    Hendra virus
                                    Herpes B virus (cultures only)
                                    Human immunodeficiency virus
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Highly pathogenic avian influenza
                                     virus (cultures only)
                                    Japanese Encephalitis virus
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Junin virus
                                    Kyasanur forest disease virus
                                    Lassa virus
                                    Machupo virus
                                    Marburg virus
                                    Monkeypox virus
                                    Mycobacterium tuberculosis (cultures
                                     only)
                                    Nipah virus
                                    Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus
                                    Poliovirus (cultures only)
                                    Rabies and other lyssaviruses
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Rickettsia prowazekii (cultures
                                     only)
                                    Rickettsia rickettsia (cultures
                                     only)
                                    Rift Valley fever virus
                                    Russian spring-summer encephalitis
                                     virus (cultures only)
                                    Sabia virus
                                    Shigella dysenteriae type I
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Tick-borne encephalitis virus
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Variola virus

[[Page 29172]]

 
                                    Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus
                                    Vesicular stomatitis virus (cultures
                                     only)
                                    West Nile virus (cultures only)
                                    Yellow fever virus (cultures only)
                                    Yersinia pestis (cultures only)
UN 2900:                            African swine fever virus (cultures
                                     only)
Infectious substances affecting     Avian paramyxovirus Type 1--
 animals only.                       Velogenic Newcastle disease virus
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Classical swine fever virus
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Foot and mouth disease virus
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Lumpy skin disease virus (cultures
                                     only)
                                    Mycoplasma mycoides--Contagious
                                     bovine pleuropneumonia (cultures
                                     only)
                                    Peste des petits ruminants virus
                                     (cultures only)
                                    Rinderpest virus (cultures only)
                                    Sheep-pox virus (cultures only)
                                    Goatpox virus (cultures only)
                                    Swine vesicular disease virus
                                     (cultures only)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Under the UN Recommendations, Category A infectious substances are 
packaged in UN specification packagings that consist of a watertight 
primary receptacle or receptacles; a watertight secondary packaging; 
for liquid materials, absorbent material in sufficient quantity to 
absorb the entire contents; and a rigid outer packaging of adequate 
strength for its capacity, mass, and intended use. The completed 
packaging must pass specified performance tests, including a drop test 
and a water-spray test, and must be capable of withstanding, without 
leakage, an internal pressure producing a pressure differential of not 
less than 95 kPa (0.95 bar, 14 psi). The completed packaging must also 
be capable of withstanding, without leakage, temperatures in the range 
of -40 [deg]C to +55 [deg]C (-40 [deg]F to 131 [deg]F). The completed 
package must be labeled with a Division 6.2 label and must be 
accompanied by appropriate shipping documentation. The packaging 
specified for Category A infectious substances is consistent with the 
packaging currently required for infectious substances assigned to UN 
2814 or UN 2900.
    A Category B infectious substance is one that does not meet the 
criteria for inclusion in Category A. A Category B infectious substance 
does not cause permanent disability or life-threatening or fatal 
disease to humans or animals when exposure to it occurs. Under the 
provisions of the 13th Edition of the UN Recommendations, adopted in 
December 2002, a Category B infectious substance is described as 
``Diagnostic Specimen'' or ``Clinical Specimen'' and assigned to UN 
3373.
    The Category A and B designations developed for purposes of 
transportation are different from the Category A and B designations for 
agents of bioterrorism developed by the Centers for Disease Control and 
Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The 
critieria for inclusion in these categories differ, and, although there 
is some overlap, the lists should not be confused. It is extremely 
important that persons offering infectious materials for transportation 
in commerce assign infectious substances to the appropriate category to 
avoid inappropriate packaging for the materials.
    Historically, the HMR have permitted a proper shipping name, such 
as ``Diagnostic specimen,'' listed in the Sec.  172.101 Table to be 
used to describe a non-hazardous material on a shipping paper and 
package marking provided the UN or NA identification number is not 
included. See Sec. Sec.  172.202(e) and 172.303(b)(3). However, 
adoption of the proper shipping names ``Diagnostic Specimen'' and 
``Clinical Specimen'' in the 13th Edition of the UN Recommendations and 
in the 2005-2006 ICAO Technical Instructions, and adoption of the 
proper shipping name ``Diagnostic specimen'' in the HMR have resulted 
in some confusion on the part of both shippers and carriers who are 
accustomed to using these terms to refer to human or animal samples 
that have a low probability of containing an infectious pathogen. In 
addition, using these terms to describe shipments of Category B 
infectious substances is not completely accurate--there are many 
shipments of Category B infectious substances that may not be 
diagnostic specimens as that term is usually defined.
    The UN Sub-Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods 
discussed the proper shipping name issue during its July 2004 meeting 
and agreed to adopt a different proper shipping name for Category B 
infectious substances--``Biological substance, Category B.'' The UN 
adopted this proper shipping name for the 14th Revised Edition of the 
UN Recommendations, which is effective January 1, 2007; ICAO adopted 
the new proper shipping name through an addendum to the 2005-2006 ICAO 
Technical Instructions. The addendum permits use of the new proper 
shipping name as an alternative to ``Diagnostic Specimen'' or 
``Clinical Specimen'' until January 1, 2007, at which time the new name 
must be used.
    Under the UN Recommendations, a Category B infectious substance is 
packaged in a packaging consisting of a leakproof primary receptacle, a 
leakproof secondary packaging, and a rigid outer packaging. At least 
one surface of the outer packaging must have a minimum dimension of 100 
mm by 100 mm (3.9 inches). The packaging must be of good quality and 
strong enough to withstand the shocks and loadings normally encountered 
during transportation. For liquid materials, the secondary packaging 
must contain absorbent material in sufficient quantities to absorb the 
entire contents of the primary receptacle or receptacles. The primary 
or secondary packaging must be capable of withstanding, without 
leakage, an internal pressure producing a pressure differential of 95 
kPa. The packaging must be constructed and closed to prevent any loss 
of contents that might be caused under normal conditions of 
transportation by vibration or changes in temperature, humidity, or 
pressure. The completed packaging must be capable of passing a 1.2-
meter (3.9 feet) drop test. The package must be marked with a diamond-
shaped marking containing the identification number ``UN 3373'' and 
with the proper shipping name ``Biological substance, Category B.'' The 
minimum size for the diamond-shaped mark includes sides at least 50 mm 
(1.97 inches) long, and letters and numbers at least 6 mm (0.24 inches) 
high. Under the UN Recommendations, shipments of Category B infectious 
substances are not

[[Page 29173]]

subject to any other transportation requirements.
    The 2005-2006 ICAO Technical Instructions, which are based in part 
on the UN Recommendations, include additional requirements for Category 
B infectious substances. Specifically, the ICAO Technical Instructions 
require the proper shipping name; UN number; and name, address, and 
telephone number of a person knowledgeable about the material to be 
provided on a written document, such as an air waybill, or on the 
package.
    Representatives of the United States worked closely with the UN 
Committee of Experts and the ICAO Dangerous Goods Panel to develop the 
revised requirements for transporting infectious substances. The new 
requirements are based on a scientific evaluation of the real risks 
that these materials pose in transportation. Category B infectious 
substances pose a reduced risk of infection upon exposure based on the 
way they are transmitted (route of infection) and the number of 
pathogens required to initiate an infection. Certain infectious 
substances previously assigned to Risk Group 2 or 3 substances are now 
assigned to Category B infectious substances and are subject to less 
stringent regulatory requirements. The Category B packaging provides 
triple barriers and absorbent and cushioning materials that are 
designed to prevent leakage of the material during transportation. We 
believe that the regulations developed for the 13th and 14th Revised 
Editions of the UN Recommendations provide a less confusing and more 
appropriate regulatory system than the current risk-group-based system. 
Therefore, in this NPRM, we are proposing to harmonize the HMR 
requirements for the transportation of infectious substances with those 
adopted or expected to be adopted for the UN Recommendations and the 
ICAO Technical Instructions.
    Specific regulatory proposals are discussed in the ``Section-by-
Section Review'' section of this preamble.

III. Category A Versus Risk Group 4 Classification

    As indicated above, the HMR currently require Division 6.2 
materials to be assigned to one of four risk groups based on the degree 
of risk associated with laboratory manipulation of the pathogen. A Risk 
Group 4 pathogen is one that usually causes serious human or animal 
disease and that can be readily transmitted from one individual to 
another, directly or indirectly, and for which effective treatments and 
preventive measures are not usually available. A Category A material is 
an infectious substance that is transported in a form that is capable 
of causing permanent disability or life-threatening or fatal disease to 
humans or animals when exposure to it occurs. As the guidance earlier 
in this document suggests, this new definition may include cultures of 
materials that previously were considered Risk Group 2 and 3 materials. 
The transportation requirements for Category A infectious substances 
are identical to current requirements under both the HMR and the UN 
Recommendations for Risk Group 4 infectious substances.
    The HMR currently provide for exceptions from certain regulatory 
requirements for Risk Group 2 or 3 infectious substances; however, 
these exceptions may not be used for Risk Group 4 materials. For 
example, the HMR currently permit diagnostic specimens, biological 
products, and regulated medical waste (RMW) that contain Risk Group 2 
or 3 infectious substances to be transported as materials of trade 
(MOTS) in accordance with Sec.  173.6. The MOTS exception may not be 
used to transport Risk Group 4 materials. In this NPRM, we propose to 
limit exceptions authorized for the transportation of infectious 
substances to Category B materials; thus, Category A materials could 
not be shipped as MOTS. We recognize that this approach somewhat 
narrows the applicability of the transportation exceptions that are 
currently permitted under the HMR. In particular, we note that, as 
proposed in this NPRM, RMW that contains a Category A infectious 
substance must be transported in accordance with requirements 
applicable to UN 2814 (infectious substance affecting humans) or UN 
2900 (infectious substance affecting animals only) rather than UN 3291 
(regulated medical waste). We believe the proposed amendments 
accurately address the risks posed by these materials; however, we 
invite commenters to address the transportation impacts, if any, of the 
proposed revisions.

IV. Notification to Pilot-in-Command

    As noted earlier, the proposals in this NPRM are consistent with 
standards adopted by the UN and ICAO. A major issue associated with 
ICAO's adoption of the provisions applicable to infectious substances 
in the 13th Revised Edition of the UN Recommendations was whether or 
not to require notification to the pilot-in-command (NOPIC) of an 
aircraft of the presence of Category B infectious substances as cargo 
on board the aircraft. Under the standards adopted for the UN 
Recommendations, Category B infectious substances are not accompanied 
by shipping papers nor must their packages be labeled. The hazard 
communication required for a package containing a Category B infectious 
substance is a package marking consisting of ``UN 3373'' in a square-
on-point configuration and the words ``Biological substance, Category 
B'' in association with the UN number. ICAO adopted additional hazard 
communication requirements for Category B infectious substances. 
Specifically, the ICAO Technical Instructions require the proper 
shipping name; UN number; and name, address, and telephone number of a 
person knowledgeable about the material to be provided on a written 
document (such as an air waybill) or on the package itself. As noted 
above, we propose to adopt the ICAO requirements into the HMR for air 
transportation.
    Generally, a NOPIC is required for shipments of hazardous materials 
subject to the HMR or ICAO Technical Instructions. The NOPIC includes 
the proper shipping name, hazard class, and identification number of 
the hazardous material; the total number of packages; the net quantity 
or gross weight for each package; the location of the packages on the 
aircraft; any additional information required by the regulations; and 
confirmation that no damaged or leaking packages have been loaded on 
the aircraft (see Sec.  175.33 of the HMR and Chapter 4, paragraph 
4.1.1, and Chapter 7, paragraph 7.4.1 of the ICAO Technical 
Instructions). The NOPIC provides the pilot-in-command with information 
to make critical decisions and take necessary safety precautions in the 
event of an emergency on board the aircraft.
    ICAO narrowly decided against requiring a NOPIC for shipments of 
Category B infectious substances for the 2005-2006 Edition of the ICAO 
Technical Instructions. The ICAO vote on the issue was evenly split; an 
equal number supported a requirement for a NOPIC for Category B 
infectious substances as opposed the requirement. ICAO members opposed 
to the requirement cited the low risk in transportation associated with 
Category B infectious substances, new ICAO requirements for hazard 
communication for Category B shipments, and the possibility that 
increased regulation would result in fewer carriers electing to 
transport Category B shipments. Members supporting the NOPIC 
requirement cited the benefit of information being available to the 
pilot and emergency responders in the event of an emergency or an 
accident. Consistent with the ICAO decision, this

[[Page 29174]]

NPRM does not propose to require a NOPIC for Category B infectious 
substances. However, we invite commenters to address this issue. Should 
the HMR require a NOPIC for shipments of Category B infectious 
substances? What would be the benefits or adverse impacts of such a 
requirement?

V. Transportation of Unknown or Suspected Infectious Substances

    The public health community is frequently confronted with outbreaks 
of disease of unknown etiology and must quickly transport specimens for 
identification and diagnosis. This rulemaking proposes that, generally, 
routine samples that are unlikely to contain an infectious substance or 
where the pathogenicity of the infectious substance is at a level 
naturally encountered in the environment that will not cause disease 
when exposure to it occurs may be transported as non-regulated 
materials. In most other cases, this rulemaking proposes to permit 
unknown samples shipped for analysis and diagnosis to be transported in 
accordance with requirements for Category B infectious substances, 
because, historically, materials meeting this definition have been 
transported in a similar manner with no adverse safety impact or 
increased risk to transport workers or the general public. For 
situations where the identity of the agent or pathogen is not known, 
but sufficient information is available to strongly suspect a Category 
A infectious substance, this NPRM proposes to require an indication on 
shipping papers that the sample contains a Category A infectious 
material, as follows--``Infectious substances, affecting humans 
(suspected Category A infectious substance), 6.2, UN 2814''. Suspected 
Category A infectious substances must be shipped in accordance with all 
applicable hazard communication and packaging requirements for Category 
A infectious substances. The determination as to whether to ship an 
unknown sample as a Category A or Category B infectious substance 
should be made by appropriate medical or public health officials based 
on known medical conditions and history of the source patient or 
animal, endemic local conditions, and symptoms of the source patient or 
animal.

VI. Security Requirements for Select Agents

    Currently, persons who offer for transportation or transport 
certain infectious substances in commerce must develop and implement 
security plans in accordance with Subpart I of Part 172 of the HMR. 
Specific measures implemented as part of the plan may vary commensurate 
with the level of threat at a particular time. At a minimum, the 
security plan must address personnel security, unauthorized access, and 
en route security. For personnel security, the plan must include 
measures to confirm information provided by job applicants for 
positions that involve access to and handling of the hazardous 
materials covered by the plan. For unauthorized access, the plan must 
include measures to address the risk that unauthorized persons may gain 
access to materials or transport conveyances being prepared for 
transportation. For en route security, the plan must include measures 
to address security risks during transportation, including shipments 
stored temporarily en route to their destinations.
    For infectious substances, the security plan requirements apply to 
shipments of select agents and toxins regulated by CDC under 42 CFR 
Part 73. The CDC regulations identify select agents and toxins 
affecting humans (``HHS Select Agents and Toxins'') and select agents 
and toxins affecting both humans and animals (``Overlap Select Agents 
and Toxins''). The USDA regulations at 9 CFR Part 121 identify select 
agents and toxins affecting animals, in addition to the Overlap Select 
Agents and Toxins that are also listed in the CDC regulations. USDA 
regulations at 7 CFR Part 331 identify agents and toxins affecting 
plants. Select agents and toxins affecting animals only are not 
currently subject to the security plan requirements. Biological agents 
and toxins affecting plants only do not meet the definition of an 
infectious substance under the HMR.
    CDC and USDA regulate select agents and toxins because they have 
the potential to pose a severe threat to the public health and safety. 
Select agents and toxins affecting animals could be used to compromise 
public health; therefore, in this NPRM we propose to add the select 
agents and toxins listed in 9 CFR Part 121 to the list of hazardous 
materials for which security plans are required. As proposed, persons 
who offer or transport any of the materials regulated under 9 CFR Part 
121 would be required to develop and implement security plans that 
conform to HMR requirements. We propose to provide six months from the 
effective date of a final rule for shippers and carriers to come into 
compliance with this new requirement.
    We invite commenters to address whether we should also require 
persons who offer or transport select agents and toxins that have been 
found to pose a severe threat to plant health or plant products, 
regulated by USDA under 7 CFR Part 331, to develop and implement 
transportation security plans. Such materials could also be used 
illegitimately to compromise public health.

VII. Sharps Containers

    There appears to be some confusion in the regulated community about 
HMR requirements applicable to sharps containers. The current 
requirements appear in several places in the regulations. For non-bulk 
shipments, a sharps container must be a UN specification packaging that 
is puncture resistant for sharps and sharps with residual fluid as 
demonstrated by conformance to the design and test requirements in 
Subpart M of Part 178 at the Packing Group II performance level. A 
sharps container that conforms to these requirements need not be placed 
in an outer packaging for transport. A sharps container placed inside a 
bulk packaging, such as a UN specification Large Packaging or a non-
specification bulk outer packaging or wheeled cart, must be puncture 
resistant. A sharps container that is 20 gallons or less in volume need 
not be a UN specification packaging if it is to be placed in a bulk 
outer packaging. A sharps container that is larger than 20 gallons in 
volume that is placed inside a bulk packaging must be capable of 
passing the performance tests in Subpart M of Part 178 at the Packing 
Group II performance level. A sharps container that will be placed in a 
bulk outer packaging for transportation may be reused only if it is 
specifically cleared or approved by FDA as a medical device for reuse 
and must have a capacity of between 2 and 40 gallons.
    The HMR include an exception from certain requirements for 
regulated medical waste (RMW), including sharps, transported by a 
private or contract carriers (see Sec.  173.134(c)). Under this 
exception, RMW, including sharps, may be transported in a rigid, non-
bulk packaging that conforms to the general packaging requirements of 
Sec. Sec.  173.24 and 173.24a and packaging requirements specified in 
OSHA standards at 29 CFR 1910.1030. The packaging requirements in 
Sec. Sec.  173.24 and 173.24a address general packaging issues such as 
packaging integrity, filling limits, and closures. Specifically with 
regard to leakproofness, Sec.  173.24(f) requires closures to be 
leakproof and secured against loosening. The OSHA standards at 29 CFR 
1910.1030 require sharps containers to be puncture

[[Page 29175]]

resistant and leakproof (see 1910.1030(d)(4)(iii)(A)(1)).
    Our enforcement experience indicates that the closures currently 
being used for sharps containers may not adequately assure that no 
contents will be released during transportation. Therefore, in this 
NPRM, we proposed to add specific closure requirements in a number of 
sections applicable to the transportation of RMW, including sharps. In 
addition, we invite commenters to consider whether the requirements for 
sharps containers should be modified. In this regard, we note that 
certain sharps containers are regulated as medical devices subject to 
pre-market review by FDA. FDA's pre-market review seeks primarily to 
address sharps containment in hospital and laboratory settings, not for 
transportation. It is our understanding, therefore, that sharps 
containers cleared or approved by FDA may not meet the HMR requirements 
in Sec. Sec.  173.197(b) and 173.134(c). For example, FDA reviews 
marketing applications for sharps containers to determine, among other 
things, whether they are leak resistant on the sides and bottoms and 
closures are leak resistant. This is a lesser standard than the 
leakproofness standard established in the HMR. We ask commenters to 
address whether the HMR should permit FDA-cleared or -approved sharps 
containers to be used for the transportation of sharps and, if so, 
under what circumstances. For example, we could permit FDA-cleared or -
approved sharps containers to be used for the transportation of sharps 
provided such containers are placed inside a leakproof outer packaging.

VIII. Incident Reporting Since February 14, 2003

    Under the final rule adopted under Docket HM-226, effective 
February 14, 2003, air carriers are required to report incidents 
involving diagnostic specimens in accordance with the incident 
reporting requirements in Sec. Sec.  171.15 and 171.16. We conducted a 
review of incidents involving diagnostic specimens in air 
transportation. We found that 133 air transport incidents were reported 
between March and June 2004. Prior to March 2004, carriers reported 
very few incidents. (A chart summarizing the reported incidents and a 
detailed listing of the incident reports is included in the docket for 
this rulemaking.) An analysis of the detailed incident reports 
indicates that in almost all cases the packages that leaked were not 
prepared in accordance with the requirements of Sec.  173.199. For 
example, many of the reported incidents appear to have resulted from 
improper closure of either the primary receptacle or the secondary 
packaging. Other packagings involved in reported incidents did not 
include absorbent or cushioning material. Our analysis does not show a 
trend in package failures that would indicate a problem with the 
adequacy of the packaging currently authorized by the HMR for the 
transportation of diagnostic specimens and proposed in this NPRM to be 
authorized for the transportation of Category B infectious substances. 
Rather, our analysis indicates that some shippers do not understand the 
regulatory requirements in Sec.  173.199. To address this problem, in 
this NPRM we propose to require the manufacturer and subsequent 
distributors of packagings authorized for the transportation of 
Category B infectious substances under Sec.  173.199 to provide clear 
instructions on filling, preparing, and closing the packaging to the 
consignor or the person who prepares the package for transportation.
    In this regard, we note that a number of testing laboratories 
provide the packaging for patients or health care professionals to use 
in transporting patient samples for testing and diagnosis. Under this 
NPRM, the proposed requirement to provide clear filling and closure 
instructions would apply to such testing laboratories as ``subsequent 
distributors'' of the packaging. It is also important to note that 
selection of an appropriate packaging for the transportation of a 
hazardous material is a regulated pre-transportation function under the 
HMR. Thus, the entity providing the packaging could be subject to 
enforcement action as an offeror of the infectious substance if the 
packaging does not comply with applicable HMR requirements.
    We have prepared a guidance document addressing the current 
requirements in the HMR for proper classification and packaging for 
diagnostic specimens which is available from our Office of Hazardous 
Materials Initiatives and Training at (202) 366-4900 or online at 
http://hazmat.dot.gov/InfectSubstances.pdf.

IX. Section-by-Section Review

    This section-by-section review summarizes the proposed changes 
believed to be most important, and requests additional comments in some 
sections.

Part 171

    Section 171.8. In Sec.  171.8, we propose to remove the definition 
for Risk Group.

Part 172

    Section 172.101. In the Hazardous Materials Table, we are proposing 
several revisions. Most importantly, we are removing the current entry 
for ``Diagnostic Specimens'' for consistency with amendments expected 
to be adopted for the 14th Revised Edition of the UN Recommendations. 
We are adding an entry for ``Biological substance, Category B.'' This 
entry will apply to shipments of Category B infectious substances, 
which must be classed as Division 6.2, described as a ``Biological 
substances, Category B,'' and assigned to UN 3373.
    In addition, we propose to revise the entries for ``Infectious 
substances, affecting animals'' and ``Infectious substances, affecting 
humans'' to delete Special Provision A81 (see discussion below). 
Further, for consistency with the UN Recommendations, we propose to 
revise the two entries for toxins to include the phrase ``extracted 
from living sources.''
    Section 172.102. We are proposing to remove Special Provision A81, 
which permits the quantity limits currently specified in the HMT for 
air shipments to be exceeded for shipments of body fluids packaged in 
accordance with Sec.  173.196. This special provision is no longer 
necessary because of the changes we propose applicable to shipments of 
Category B infectious substances. We propose to include quantity limits 
for air transportation in Sec.  173.199.
    Section 172.200. Consistent with requirements in the ICAO Technical 
Instructions, in Sec.  172.200 we are proposing to clarify that the 
shipping paper requirements do not apply to Category B infectious 
substances prepared in accordance with Sec.  173.199 of the HMR. This 
proposal is consistent with the requirements adopted for the UN 
Recommendations, which except Category B infectious substances from the 
shipping paper requirements of Part 172.
    Section 172.203. In paragraph (k) of Sec.  172.203, we propose to 
authorize a shipping paper that accompanies a shipment of a suspected 
Category A infectious substance to include the words ``suspected 
Category A infectious substance'' in parentheses as an alternative to a 
technical name that describes the pathogen(s) it contains when the 
infectious substance is not known. Thus, the shipping description for a 
suspected Category A infectious substance affecting humans would read, 
``Infectious substances, affecting humans (suspected Category A 
infectious substance), 6.2, UN 2814''. For known Category A pathogens, 
we propose that the technical name of the pathogen must be indicated.
    Section 172.301. Consistent with the UN Recommendations, in 
paragraph (b)

[[Page 29176]]

of Sec.  172.301, we propose that no technical names are to be marked 
on the outer packaging of Division 6.2 materials.
    Section 172.800. We propose to require persons who offer for 
transportation or transport select agents and toxins regulated by USDA 
under 9 CFR Part 121 to develop and implement security plans in 
accordance with requirements in Subpart I of part 172 of the HMR.

Part 173

    Section 173.6. Our August 14, 2002 final rule added Division 6.2 
materials to the hazardous materials that may be transported as 
materials of trade (MOTS). The final rule prohibited Risk Group 4 
infectious substances from being transported as MOTS. In this NPRM, we 
propose to modify Sec.  173.6 to prohibit Category A infectious 
substances and suspected Category A infectious substances, rather than 
Risk Group 4 infectious substances, from being transported as MOTS for 
consistency with the definition and classification criteria for 
infectious substances adopted for the UN Recommendations. In addition, 
we propose to modify the packaging requirements for MOTS shipments of 
Division 6.2 materials. The August 14, 2002 final rule established 
capacity limitations for MOTS packagings of Division 6.2 materials. In 
this NPRM, for consistency with international standards, we propose to 
limit the amount of material each packaging may contain rather than the 
capacities of the packagings used. Finally, we propose to add a 
requirement that sharps containers must be securely closed to prevent 
leaks or punctures. As indicated above, we are concerned that the 
closures currently being used for sharps containers may not adequately 
assure that no contents will be released during transportation.
    Section 173.24a. We propose to modify paragraph (c) in Sec.  
173.24a to prohibit a package containing inner packagings of Division 
6.2 materials from containing any other hazardous materials except for 
dry ice, liquid nitrogen, or other material used to preserve or 
stabilize the infectious substance. Hazardous materials most commonly 
used to preserve or stabilize an infectious substance include methanol, 
isopropyl alcohol, boric acid, formaldehyde, formalin, and sodium 
borate. This proposal is consistent with a provision adopted for the 
2005-2006 edition of the ICAO Technical Instructions and by the UN 
Transport of Dangerous Goods Subcommittee for the 14th Revised Edition 
of the UN Recommendations. The packaging requirements proposed for 
Division 6.2 materials, which include triple packaging and absorbent 
material, are comparable to the packaging permitted for transporting 
hazardous materials in accordance with the small quantity exceptions in 
Sec.  173.4 and should minimize the risk of a release in 
transportation. Therefore, in this NPRM, we propose that when a 
hazardous preservative, such as a Class 3 or Class 8 material in 
Packing Groups II or III, is included in the inner packaging with the 
material, the preservative would not be subject to HMR requirements 
provided the amount in the inner packaging does not exceed 30 mL for a 
liquid or 30 g for a solid. The maximum quantity in an outer package, 
including a hazardous material used to preserve or stabilize a sample, 
would not be permitted to exceed 4 L or 4 kg. Note that this exception 
applies only to materials in Packing Groups II or III; PG I materials 
are not authorized. Note also that, for amounts in excess of 30 mL or 
30 g per inner packaging, hazardous preservative materials are 
regulated under the HMR and must be transported in accordance with 
requirements applicable to their specific classification and 
characteristics. We request comments as to whether volumes over 30 mL 
should be excepted and why, and whether the provision should be 
expanded to allow Packing Group I materials.
    Section 173.134. We propose a number of revisions to Sec.  173.134 
for consistency with definitions and provisions adopted for the UN 
Recommendations, as follows:
    (1) We propose to modify the definition for a Division 6.2 
material. The proposed definition replaces the Risk Group ranking 
system with the two-tiered Category A and Category B system adopted by 
the UN. The proposed definition includes a requirement for a Division 
6.2 material to be assigned an appropriate identification number: UN 
2814 for Category A infectious substances affecting humans or both 
humans and animals; UN 2900 for Category A infectious substances 
affecting animals only; UN 3373 for Category B infectious substances; 
and UN 3291 for Regulated medical waste.
    (2) We propose to modify the definition for ``biological product'' 
to replace the Risk Group ranking references with references to 
Category A and Category B infectious substances. We are not proposing 
to adopt the definition for ``biological product'' exactly as that term 
is defined in the UN Recommendations. The new definition does not 
differ substantively from the current definition in the HMR; moreover, 
the current definition in the HMR, as modified in this NPRM, is 
consistent with the definition used by FDA and other Federal agencies.
    (3) We propose to replace the existing definition of ``cultures and 
stocks'' with a definition for ``cultures'' that is consistent with the 
definition for ``cultures'' adopted in the UN for the 14th Revised 
Edition of the UN Recommendations. Cultures are the result of a process 
by which pathogens are intentionally propagated by use of ideal 
conditions, including temperature, environment, and nutrient-based 
propagation media. The definition proposed in this NPRM refers to 
cultures prepared for the intentional generation of pathogens and does 
not include patient specimens intended for diagnostic or clinical 
purposes.
    (4) We are proposing a new definition for ``patient specimen.'' As 
proposed in this NPRM, ``patient specimen'' means human or animal 
materials that are collected directly from humans or animals and that 
are transported for research, diagnosis, investigational activities, or 
disease treatment or prevention. Examples include excreta, secreta, 
blood and its components, tissue and tissue swabs, and body parts.
    (5) We propose to modify the definition for ``regulated medical 
waste'' to incorporate Category A and Category B infectious substances. 
RMW containing a Category A infectious substance must be classed as 
Division 6.2, described as an infectious substance, and assigned to UN 
2814 or UN 2900, as appropriate. RMW containing Category B infectious 
substances is assigned to UN 3291.
    (6) We propose to modify the listed exceptions in paragraph (b) of 
Sec.  173.134 for consistency with the UN Recommendations. Most of the 
exceptions are unchanged. However, we are adding an exception for a 
material that has a low probability of containing an infectious 
substance or where the concentration of the infectious substance is at 
a level naturally occurring in the environment that will not cause 
disease when exposure occurs. Examples include foodstuffs and certain 
environmental samples. The new provision referring to environmental 
samples would replace the exception for these materials in current 
Sec.  173.134(b)(13). In addition, we are proposing to add an exception 
for dried blood spots and for specimens used to detect fecal occult 
blood. These are specimens that are routinely collected from healthy 
patients for routine testing and screening (e.g., DNA

[[Page 29177]]

analysis, forensic studies, immunologic studies, cancer screening, and 
nutritional evaluations of infants, children, and adults). The specimen 
is placed on paper, allowed to saturate the paper, and then dried 
completely. The specimens pose an extremely minimal risk of infection, 
and may be rendered unusable if placed in packaging that retains 
moisture or heat to the sample. More than 100 million specimens have 
been safely transported by routine mail over the last 30 years. Health 
professionals recommend that these materials should be transported in a 
double-envelope system that forms a double-layer protective barrier 
(i.e., inner and outer-sealed high quality, air-permeable paper 
envelope) or an attached heavy paper fold-over flap as the inner 
container placed into a secondary high-quality paper envelope.
    In addition, in this NPRM we are proposing to except from 
regulation under the HMR a human or animal sample transported for 
routine testing that is not related to diagnosis of an infectious 
disease and for which there is no reason to suspect that the sample is 
infectious. Routine screening tests include: (1) Blood or urine tests 
that a doctor may order as part of a routine medical examination to 
monitor cholesterol levels, blood glucose levels, hormone levels, or 
prostate specific antibodies (PSA); (2) blood or urine tests to monitor 
liver or kidney functions for the millions of people who are not known 
to have a non-infectious disease, such as multiple sclerosis, and who 
are following a particular drug therapy regime; (3) blood or urine 
tests conducted for insurance or employment purposes and/or intended to 
determine the presence of alcohol or drugs; (4) DNA tests; and (5) 
pregnancy tests. Tests for diagnoses other than for the presence of 
pathogens include biopsies to detect cancer and antibody titre testing. 
This exception is consistent with exeptions adopted in the UN 
Recommendations for substances that are unlikely to cause disease in 
humans or animals and substances for which there is a low probability 
that infectious substances are present.
    (7) We propose to revise the exceptions in paragraph (c) applicable 
to the transportation of regulated medical waste. We propose to add a 
requirement that sharps containers shipped in accordance with this 
exception must be securely closed to prevent leaks or punctures. We are 
concerned that the closures currently being used for sharps containers 
may not adequately assure that no contents will be released during 
transportation. In addition, we propose to modify paragraph (c)(2) to 
revise the current reference to Risk Group 2 or 3 infectious substances 
to Category B infectious substances.
    Section 173.196. We propose to modify the Division 6.2 material 
packaging requirements in Sec.  173.196 for consistency with the UN 
Recommendations. Generally, the proposed revisions are editorial and do 
not change current packaging requirements. We are proposing to add a 
requirement for outer packagings to be rigid. Note that the packaging 
requirements in Sec.  173.196 apply to shipments of Category A 
infectious substances only. In this NPRM, we propose that Category B 
infectious substances will be transported in accordance with the 
provisions in Sec.  173.199.
    Section 173.197. We propose to modify the RMW packaging 
requirements in Sec.  173.197 to incorporate Category A and Category B 
infectious substances. The proposed revisions do not substantively 
change the current packaging requirements for non-bulk or bulk 
shipments of RMW.
    We propose to revise Sec.  173.197(b) for clarification by 
correcting in the first sentence, ``except as otherwise provided in 
Sec.  173.134 of this subpart'' to read ``except as authorized by Sec.  
173.134(d)(1)(ii).'' In addition, in current paragraph (b) non-bulk RMW 
packaging is currently described as a DOT specification packaging 
meeting the requirements of Part 178 at the PG II performance level. We 
are proposing to revise the phrase ``DOT specification'' to read ``UN 
standard'' because non-bulk PG II refers to packagings in Part 178, 
Subpart L, conforming to a UN standard. We propose in paragraph 
(d)(1)(iv) to not permit untreated concentrated stock cultures of a 
Category A infectious substance in a wheeled Cart or BOP.
    In Sec.  173.197(d)(2)(iii), the reference to the drop test 
requirement is not correct. It should read ``Each Cart must be capable 
of meeting the requirements of Sec.  178.810 (drop test) at the Packing 
Group II performance level.''
    In Sec.  173.197(e)(3), in the introductory paragraph, we are 
proposing to revise the wording ``the performance tests in Sec.  
178.601'' to read ``the performance tests in Part 178, Subpart M''. 
There are no performance tests in Sec.  178.601. This revision would 
make Sec.  173.197(e)(3) consistent with Sec.  173.197(b). Finally, we 
propose to add a requirement that sharps containers must be securely 
closed to prevent leaks or punctures. We are concerned that the 
closures currently being used for sharps containers may not adequately 
ensure that no contents will be released during transportation.
    Section 173.199. We propose to modify this section for consistency 
with the UN Recommendations and ICAO Technical Instructions. As 
proposed in this NPRM, the provisions of Sec.  173.199 will apply to 
shipments of Category B infectious substances and used health care 
products. The packaging requirements proposed are substantially the 
same as the current requirements for shipping diagnostic specimens, 
except that we are proposing that the outer packaging must be rigid. 
The completed packaging must be capable of passing a drop test at a 
height of 1.2 meters. We are proposing pass/fail criteria for the drop 
test--there must be no leakage from the primary receptacle, and the 
primary receptacle must remain protected by absorbent material, when 
required, in the secondary packaging. In addition, we propose to 
require the use of absorbent materials for solids that may become 
liquid during transportation.
    Consistent with amendments adopted for the UN Recommendations, we 
propose to remove the current capacity limitations for shipment of 
Category B infectious substances, except for Category B infectious 
substances transported by air. For air shipments of these materials, we 
are proposing to modify the current limitations on capacity consistent 
with the amendments adopted in the 2005-2006 ICAO Technical 
Instructions. For liquids, we propose to increase the amount of 
material permitted in each inner packaging from 500 mL (16.9 ounces) to 
1 L (34 ounces); the limitation on the total amount of material that is 
permitted in the outer packaging remains 4 L (1 gallon). For solids, we 
propose to delete the limitation on the amount of material permitted in 
each inner packaging; again, the limitation on the total amount of 
material permitted in the outer packaging remains 4 kg (8.8 pounds). In 
addition, we propose to require at least one surface of the outer 
packaging to have a minimum dimension of 100 mm by 100 mm (3.9 inches).
    Consistent with provisions proposed to be adopted for the 14th 
Edition of the UN Recommendations, we propose to require a package 
containing a Category B infectious substance and prepared in accordance 
with Sec.  173.199 to be marked with the identification number ``UN 
3373'' in a square-on-point configuration and with the proper shipping 
name ``Biological substances, Category B.'' Each side of the square-on-
point mark must be at least 50 mm in length, and the proper shipping 
name

[[Page 29178]]

``Biological substances, Category B'' must be in letters at least 6 mm 
high. We are also proposing to require the proper shipping name, UN 
number, and the name, address, and telephone number of a person 
knowledgeable about the shipment to be included on a written document, 
such as an air waybill or bill of lading, or on the outer packaging. 
The knowledgeable person should be able to provide information about 
how to respond to emergencies or releases involving the package and 
appropriate first aid and treatment. Finally, we propose to permit 
small amounts of hazardous materials in Packing Groups II or III, not 
to exceed 30 mL (1 ounce) or 30 g (1 ounce) in each inner packaging, to 
be used to preserve or stabilize the material. Such preservatives would 
not be subject to HMR requirements.
    Category B infectious substances prepared in accordance with Sec.  
173.199 are excepted from all other HMR requirements except for 
incident reporting and the requirements in Part 175 of the HMR that 
prohibit a hazardous material subject to the HMR requirements from 
being transported in the cabin of a passenger aircraft or the flight 
deck of any aircraft.

Part 175

    Section 175.630. We are proposing to add a new paragraph (c) to 
this section to require air carriers to inspect packages containing 
Division 6.2 materials for leakage when they are unloaded. If evidence 
of leakage is found, the cargo compartment must be disinfected.

X. Rulemaking Analysis and Notices

A. Statutory/Legal Authority for This Rulemaking

    This NPRM is published under the following statutory authorities:
    1. 49 U.S.C. 5103(b) authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to 
prescribe regulations for the safe transportation, including security, 
of hazardous material in intrastate, interstate, and foreign commerce. 
This NPRM proposes regulations to enhance the safe and secure 
transportation of infectious substances in intrastate, interstate, and 
foreign commerce. To this end, as discussed in detail earlier in this 
preamble, the NPRM proposes to revise current HMR requirements 
applicable to infectious substances for classification, packaging, and 
hazard communication and for offerors and transporters of certain 
infectious substances to develop and implement security plans.
    2. 49 U.S.C. 5120(b) authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to 
ensure that, to the extent practicable, regulations governing the 
transportation of hazardous materials in commerce are consistent with 
standards adopted by international authorities. This NPRM proposes 
regulations applicable to the transportation of infectious substances 
in commerce that are consistent with international standards applicable 
to such transportation. To this end, as discussed in detail earlier in 
this preamble, the NPRM proposes to harmonize current HMR requirements 
for infectious substances with the standards adopted for the 
transportation of infectious substances in the UN Recommendations, the 
2005-2006 ICAO Technical Instructions, and Amendment 32 to the IMDG 
Code. The continually increasing amount of hazardous materials 
transported in international commerce warrants the harmonization of 
domestic and international requirements to the greatest extent 
possible. Harmonization serves to facilitate international 
transportation; at the same time, harmonization ensures the safety of 
people, property, and the environment by reducing the potential for 
confusion and misunderstanding that could result if shippers and 
transporters were required to comply with two or more conflicting sets 
of regulatory requirements. While the intent of this rulelmaking is to 
align the HMR with international standards, we review and consider each 
amendment on its own merit based on its overall impact on 
transportation safety and the economic implications associated with its 
adoption into the HMR. Our goal is to harmonize without sacrificing the 
current HMR level of safety and without imposing undue burdens on the 
regulated public. Thus, as discussed in detail earlier in this 
preamble, there are several instances where we elected not to propose 
adoption of a specific provision of the UN Recommendations or the ICAO 
Technical Instructions; further, we propose to maintain a number of 
current exceptions for domestic transportation that should minimize the 
compliance burden on the regulated community.

B. Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures

    This NPRM is a significant regulatory action under section 3(f) of 
Executive Order 12866 and, therefore, was reviewed by the Office of 
Management and Budget. This proposed rule is also considered 
significant under the Regulatory Policies and Procedures of the 
Department of Transportation (44 FR 11034). Benefits resulting from the 
adoption of the amendments in this NPRM include reduced transportation 
costs for shipments of certain infectious substances and enhanced 
transportation safety and efficiency resulting from consistent domestic 
and international transportation requirements. The NPRM would result in 
new costs of compliance related to the development and implementation 
of transportation security plans for persons who ship USDA-regulated 
select agents and toxins. A regulatory evaluation for this NPRM is in 
the public docket for this rulemaking.
    This NPRM proposes to relax requirements for transporting Category 
B infectious substances. Currently, many of these infectious substances 
must be shipped in appropriately marked and labeled UN specification 
packagings and accompanied by shipping papers and emergency response 
information; these infectious substances are also subject to incident 
reporting requirements. Under this proposal, Category B infectious 
substances could be shipped in non-specification packagings, marked 
with the appropriate UN number. However, they would be excepted from 
labeling and shipping documentation requirements. Category B infectious 
substances would also be excepted from incident reporting requirements, 
except for shipments by aircraft. Thus, the proposals in this NPRM 
would reduce transportation costs for many infectious substances and 
facilitate their rapid and efficient transportation, which is critical 
to public health.
    This NPRM proposes to harmonize the requirements in the HMR for 
transporting infectious substances with international standards in the 
UN Recommendations, the ICAO Technical Instructions, and the 
International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. Harmonization of 
requirements in the HMR with international standards will allow us to 
avoid inconsistencies between the regulations, thereby facilitating 
efficient transportation of infectious substances across national or 
international borders. More importantly, harmonized regulations reduce 
the potential for misunderstanding and confusion and, thus, enhance 
safety.

C. Executive Order 13132

    This proposed rule has been analyzed in accordance with the 
principles and criteria contained in Executive Order 13132 
(``Federalism''). This proposed rule would preempt State, local, and 
Indian tribe requirements but does not propose any regulation that has 
substantial direct effects on the States, the relationship between the 
national government and the States, or the distribution of power and

[[Page 29179]]

responsibilities among the various levels of government. Therefore, the 
consultation and funding requirements of Executive Order 13132 do not 
apply.
    The Federal hazardous materials transportation law, 49 U.S.C. 5101-
5127, contains an express preemption provision (49 U.S.C. 5125(b)) that 
preempts State, local, and Indian tribe requirements on certain covered 
subjects. Covered subjects are:
    (1) The designation, description, and classification of hazardous 
materials;
    (2) The packing, repacking, handling, labeling, marking, and 
placarding of hazardous materials;
    (3) The preparation, execution, and use of shipping documents 
related to hazardous materials and requirements related to the number, 
contents, and placement of those documents;
    (4) The written notification, recording, and reporting of the 
unintentional release in transportation of hazardous material; or
    (5) The design, manufacture, fabrication, marking, maintenance, 
recondition, repair, or testing of a packaging or container 
represented, marked, certified, or sold as qualified for use in 
transporting hazardous material.
    This proposed rule addresses covered subject items (1), (2), (3), 
(4), and (5) described above and would preempt State, local, and Indian 
tribe requirements not meeting the ``substantively the same'' standard. 
This proposed rule is necessary to harmonize domestic regulations for 
the transportation of infectious substances with international 
standards.
    Federal hazardous materials transportation law provides at Sec.  
5125(b)(2) that, if DOT issues a regulation concerning any of the 
covered subjects, DOT must determine and publish in the Federal 
Register the effective date of Federal preemption. The effective date 
may not be earlier than the 90th day following the date of issuance of 
the final rule and not later than two years after the date of issuance. 
PHMSA proposes that the effective date of Federal preemption will be 90 
days from publication of a final rule in this matter in the Federal 
Register.

D. Executive Order 13175

    This proposed rule has been analyzed in accordance with the 
principles and criteria contained in Executive Order 13175 
(``Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments''). 
Because this proposed rule does not have tribal implications and does 
not impose direct compliance costs, the funding and consultation 
requirements of Executive Order 13175 do not apply.

E. Regulatory Flexibility Act, Executive Order 13272, and DOT 
Procedures and Policies

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-611) requires each 
agency to analyze proposed regulations and assess their impact on small 
businesses and other small entities to determine whether the proposed 
rule is expected to have a significant impact on a substantial number 
of small entities. A regulatory evaluation for this NPRM, which 
includes a detailed small business impact analysis, is in the public 
docket for this rulemaking.
    Businesses likely to be affected by the proposals in this NPRM are 
the more than 441,000 establishments that comprise North American 
Industrial Classification System Major Groups 32, 48, 54, and 62, 
including offices and clinics of doctors of medicine, dentists, doctors 
of osteopathy, chiropractors, optometrists, podiatrists, and health 
practitioners; nursing and personal care facilities; hospitals; medical 
and dental laboratories; and patients. For purposes of the small 
business impact analysis, the definition of ``small business'' has the 
same meaning as under the Small Business Act. The majority of the 
businesses likely to be affected by the proposals in this NPRM are 
small businesses (from 68% of general medical and surgical hospitals to 
nearly 100% of doctors' offices and research laboratories).
    For the most part, affected businesses would incur no increased 
costs to comply with the provisions of this NPRM; indeed, if adopted, 
the provisions of this NPRM would reduce overall transportation costs 
for most of these entities. Manufacturers and distributors of packages 
intended for the transportation of infectious substances will incur 
costs associated with retaining copies of filling and closure 
instructions for such packages; we estimate that the cost per company 
will be about $750/year. In addition, air carriers would incur 
increased costs associated with new cargo inspection requirements; we 
estimate that these costs would amount to $1.34 per package of 
infectious substances transported. Finally, the NRPM would impost new 
costs on the regulated industry for shipments of select agents and 
toxins regulated by USDA; we estimate that these costs would amount to 
$1,125 per company to develop a security plan and a subsequent annual 
cost of $225 per entity to update and maintain the security plan. The 
annual costs attributed to the proposals in this NPRM are minimal, 
especially when compared to the $300 billion in receipts reported by 
the health services industry. We believe none of those costs will be 
disproportionately borne by any of the identified groups of small 
businesses.
    Benefits resulting from the adoption of the amendments in this NPRM 
include reduced transportation costs for shipments of certain 
infectious substances and enhanced transportation safety, security, and 
efficiency resulting from consistent domestic and international 
transportation requirements. For example, companies that ship 
infectious substances could expect to experience an average cost 
savings of $77 per shipment as a result of new packaging requirements 
for Category B infectious substances and $1.90 per shipment as a result 
of revised hazard communication requirements for Category B infectious 
substances. In addition, the NPRM would result in enhanced security for 
the transportation of select agents. Finally, the NPRM would remove 
inconsistencies between the HMR and international transportation 
standards applicable to the transportation of infectious substances, 
thereby facilitating efficient transportation across national and 
international borders and reducing the potential for misunderstanding 
and confusion in applying the regulatory requirements.
    Based on the above analysis, PHMSA certifies that while this 
proposed rule will impact a significant number of small entities it 
will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities.
    This proposed rule has been developed in accordance with Executive 
Order 13272 (``Proper Consideration of Small Entities in Agency 
Rulemaking'') and DOT's procedures and policies to promote compliance 
with the Regulatory Flexibility Act to ensure that potential impacts of 
draft rules on small entities are properly considered.

F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    This proposed rule would not impose unfunded mandates under the 
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995. It would not, if adopted, result 
in costs of $120.7 million or more, in the aggregate, to any of the 
following: State, local, or Native American tribal governments, or the 
private sector.

G. Paperwork Reduction Act

    This proposed rule does not impose any new information collection 
requirements.

H. Regulation Identifier Number (RIN)

    A regulation identifier number (RIN) is assigned to each regulatory 
action

[[Page 29180]]

listed in the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulations. The Regulatory 
Information Service Center publishes the Unified Agenda in April and 
October of each year. The RIN number contained in the heading of this 
document may be used to cross-reference this action with the Unified 
Agenda.

I. Environmental Assessment

    The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), as amended 
(42 U.S.C. 4321-4347), requires Federal agencies to consider the 
consequences of major federal actions and prepare a detailed statement 
on actions significantly affecting the quality of the human 
environment. There are no significant environmental impacts associated 
with this proposed rule. PHMSA proposes changes to certain HMR 
requirements for the transportation of infectious substances in order 
to promote safer transportation practices, facilitate international 
commerce, and make these requirements compatible with new international 
standards regarding the transportation of infectious substances.

J. Privacy Act

    Anyone is able to search the electronic form for all comments 
received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual 
submitting the comments (or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf 
of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review DOT's 
complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on 
April 11, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 70; Pages 19477-78) or you may visit 
http://dms.dot.gov.

List of Subjects

49 CFR Part 171

    Exports, Hazardous materials transportation, Hazardous waste, 
Imports, Incorporation by reference, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

49 CFR Part 172

    Education, Hazardous materials transportation, Hazardous waste, 
Incorporation by reference, Labeling, Markings, Packaging and 
containers, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

49 CFR Part 173

    Hazardous materials transportation, Incorporation by reference, 
Packaging and containers, Radioactive materials, Reporting and 
Recordkeeping Requirements, Uranium.

49 CFR Part 175

    Air carriers, Hazardous materials transportation, Incorporation by 
reference, Radioactive materials, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

    In consideration of the foregoing, we propose to amend 49 CFR parts 
171, 172, 173, and 175 as follows:

PART 171--GENERAL INFORMATION, REGULATIONS, AND DEFINITION

    1. The authority citation for part 171 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127, 44701; 49 CFR 1.45 and 1.53; 
Pub. L. 101-410 section 4 (28 U.S.C. 2461 note); Pub. L. 104-134 
section 31001.


Sec.  171.8  [Amended]

    2. In Sec.  171.8, the definition for ``Risk Group'' is removed.

PART 172--HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TABLE, SPECIAL PROVISIONS, HAZARDOUS 
MATERIALS COMMUNICATIONS, EMERGENCY RESPONSE INFORMATION, AND 
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

    3. The authority citation for part 172 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.

    4. In Sec.  172.101, in the Hazardous Materials Table, the 
following changes are made:
    a. The entries ``Diagnostic specimen''; ``Toxins, from living 
sources, liquid, n.o.s.''; and ``Toxins, from living sources, solid, 
n.o.s.'' are removed.
    b. The entries ``Biological substance, Category B''; ``Toxins, 
extracted from living sources, liquid, n.o.s.''; and ``Toxins, 
extracted from living sources, solid, n.o.s.'' are added in appropriate 
alphabetic order.
    c. The entries ``Infectious substances, affecting animals only''; 
``Infectious substances, affecting humans''; and ``Regulated medical 
waste, n.o.s.'' are revised.
    The additions and revisions read as follows:


Sec.  172.101  Purpose and use of hazardous materials table.

* * * * *

[[Page 29181]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Hazardous                                                                            Packaging (Sec.   173.* * *)  (8)     Quantity limitations  (9)    Vessel stowage  (10)
                  materials       Hazard                                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Symbols       descriptions    class or   Identification       PG          Label       Special                                              Passenger       Cargo
                  and proper     division       numbers                      codes     provisions    Exceptions    Non-bulk       Bulk        aircraft/     aircraft      Location       Other
                shipping names                                                                                                                  rail          only
(1)            (2)............         (3)  (4)...........  (5).........         (6)  (7).........  (8A)........        (8B)  (8C)........  (9A)........  (9B)........  (10A).......       (10B)
--------------
 
 
                                                                                          * * * * * * *
               Biological              6.2  UN3373........  ............  ..........  A82.........  134.........         199  None........  4L or 4 kg..  4 L or 4 kg.  A...........          40
                substance,
                Category B.
 
                                                                                          * * * * * * *
G............  Infectious              6.2  UN2900........  ............         6.2  A82.........  134.........         196  None........  50 mL or 50   4 L or 4 kg.  B...........          40
                substances,                                                                                                                  g.
                affecting
                animals only.
G............  Infectious              6.2  UN 2814.......  ............         6.2  A82.........  134.........         196  None........  50 mL or 50   4 L or 4 kg.  B...........          40
                substances,                                                                                                                  kg.
                affecting
                humans.
 
                                                                                          * * * * * * *
G............  Regulated               6.2  UN3291........  II..........         6.2  A13.........  134.........         197  197.........  No limit....  No limit....  B...........          40
                medical waste,
                n.o.s.
 
                                                                                          * * * * * * *
G............  Toxins,                 6.1  UN3172........  I...........         6.1  141.........  None........         201  243.........  1 L.........  30 L........  B...........
                extracted from
                living
                sources,
                liquid, n.o.s.
                                ..........                  II..........  ..........  ............  None........         202  243.........  5 L.........  60 L........  B...........
                                ..........                  III.........  ..........  ............  153.........         203  241.........  60 L........  220 L.......  A...........
G............  Toxins,                 6.1  UN3462........  I...........         6.1  141, IB8....  None........         211  243.........  5 kg........  50 kg.......  B...........
                extracted from
                living
                sources,
                solid, n.o.s.
                                ..........                  II..........  ..........  ............  None........         212  243.........  25 kg.......  100 kg......  B...........
                                                            III.........  ..........  ............  153.........         213  241.........  100 kg......  200 kg......  A...........
 
                                                                                          * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 29182]]

* * * * *


Sec.  172.102  [Amended]

    5. In Sec.  172.102, in paragraph (c)(2), Special Provision A81 is 
removed.
    6. In Sec.  172.200, paragraph (b)(4) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  172.200  Applicability.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (4) Category B infectious substances prepared in accordance with 
Sec.  173.199.
* * * * *
    7. In Sec.  172.203, in paragraph (k) introductory text a sentence 
is added after the last sentence to read as follows:


Sec.  172.203  Additional description requirements.

* * * * *
    (k) * * * A material classed as Division 6.2 and assigned 
identification UN 2914 or 2900 because it is suspected to contain an 
unknown Category A infectious substance must have the words ``suspected 
Category A infectious substance'' entered in parentheses in place of 
the technical name as part of the proper shipping description.
* * * * *
    8. In Sec.  172.301, paragraph (b) is revised to read as follows.


Sec.  172.301  General marking requirements for non-bulk packagings.

    (b) Technical names. In addition to the marking required by 
paragraph (a) of this section, each non-bulk packaging containing a 
hazardous material subject to the provisions of Sec.  172.203(k) of 
this part, except for a Division 6.2 material, must be marked with the 
technical name in parentheses in association with the proper shipping 
name in accordance with the requirements and exceptions specified for 
display of technical descriptions on shipping papers in Sec.  
172.203(k) of this part. A technical name should not be marked on the 
outer package of a Division 6.2 material.
* * * * *
    9. In Sec.  172.800, paragraph (b)(6) is revised to read as 
follows:


Sec.  172.800  Purpose and Applicability.

    (b) * * *
    (6) A select agent or toxin regulated by the Centers for Disease 
Control and Prevention under 42 CFR part 73 or, by [six months after 
effective date of final rule], a select agent or toxin regulated by the 
United States Department of Agriculture under 9 CFR part 121; or
* * * * *

PART 173--SHIPPERS--GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SHIPMENTS AND 
PACKAGINGS

    9a. The authority citation for part 173 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127, 44701; 49 CFR 1.45, 1.53.

    10. In Sec.  173.6, paragraph (a)(4) is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  173.6  Materials of trade exceptions.

    (a) * * *
    (4) A Division 6.2 material, other than a Category A infectious 
substance, that is contained in human or animal samples (including, but 
not limited to, secreta, excreta, blood and its components, tissue and 
tissue fluids, and body parts) being transported for research, 
diagnosis, investigational activities, or disease treatment or 
prevention, or is a biological product or regulated medical waste. The 
material must be contained in a combination packaging. For liquids, the 
inner packaging must be leakproof, and the outer packaging must contain 
sufficient absorbent material to absorb the entire contents of the 
inner packaging. For sharps, the inner packaging (sharps container) 
must be constructed of a rigid material resistant to punctures and 
securely closed to prevent leaks or punctures, and the outer packaging 
must be securely closed to prevent leaks or punctures. For all Division 
6.2 materials, the outer packaging must be a strong, tight packaging 
securely closed and secured against movement, including relative motion 
between packages, within the vehicle on which it is being transported.
    (i) For other than a regulated medical waste, the amount of 
Division 6.2 material in a combination packaging must conform to the 
following limitations:
    (A) One or more inner packagings, each of which may not contain 
more than 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs) or 0.5 L (17 ounces), and an outer packaging 
containing not more than 4 kg (8.8 lbs) or 4 L (1 gallon); or
    (B) A single inner packaging containing not more than 16 kg (35.2 
lbs) or 16 L (4.2 gallons) in a single outer packaging.
    (ii) For a regulated medical waste, a combination packaging must 
consist of one or more inner packagings, each of which may not contain 
more than 4 kg (8.8 lbs) or 4 L (1 gallon), and an outer packaging 
containing not more than 16 kg (35.2 lbs) or 16 L (4.2 gallons).
* * * * *
    11. In Sec.  173.24a, paragraph (c)(2) is revised to read as 
follows:


Sec.  173.24a  Additional general requirements for non-bulk packagings 
and packages.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) A packaging containing inner packagings of Division 6.2 
materials may not contain other hazardous materials except--
    (i) Refrigerants, such as dry ice or liquid nitrogen, as authorized 
under the HMR;
    (ii) Anticoagulants used to stabilize blood or plasma; or
    (iii) Small quantities of Class 3, Class 8, Class 9, or other 
materials in Packing Groups II or III used to stabilize or prevent 
degradation of the sample, provided the quantity of such materials does 
not exceed 30 mL (1 ounce) or 30 g (1 ounce) in each inner packaging. 
Such materials are not subject to the requirements of this subchapter.
* * * * *
    12. In Sec.  173.134, paragraph (a) introductory text and, (a)(1) 
through (a)(5) are revised; paragraph (a)(6) is removed; paragraphs 
(a)(7), (a)(8), and (a)(9) are redesignated as paragraphs (a)(6), 
(a)(7), and (a)(8) respectively, and paragraphs (b), (c)(1)(ii), and 
(c)(2) are revised to read as follows:


Sec.  173.134  Class 6, Division 6.2--Definitions and exceptions.

    (a) Definitions and classification criteria. For the purposes of 
this subchapter, the following definitions and classification criteria 
apply to Division 6.2 materials.
    (1) Division 6.2 (Infectious substance) means a material known or 
reasonably expected to contain a pathogen. A pathogen is a 
microorganism (including bacteria, viruses, rickettsiae, parasites, 
fungi) or other agent, such as a proteinaceous infectious particle 
(prion), that can cause disease in humans or animals. An infectious 
substance must be assigned the identification number UN 2814, UN 2900, 
UN 3373, or UN 3291 as appropriate, and must be assigned to one of the 
following categories:
    (i) Category A: An infectious substance in a form that is capable 
of causing permanent disability or life-threatening or fatal disease in 
otherwise healthy humans or animals when exposure to it occurs. An 
exposure occurs when an infectious substance is released outside of its 
protective packaging, resulting in physical contact with humans or 
animals. A Category A infectious substance must be assigned to UN 2814 
or UN 2900, as appropriate. Assignment to UN 2814 or UN 2900 must be 
based on the known medical history or symptoms of the source patient or 
animal, endemic local

[[Page 29183]]

conditions, or professional judgment concerning the individual 
circumstances of the source human or animal.
    (ii) Category B: An infectious substance that is not in a form that 
is generally capable of causing permanent disability or life-
threatening or fatal disease in otherwise healthy humans or animals 
when exposure to it occurs. This includes Category B infectious 
substances transported for diagnostic or investigational purposes. A 
Category B infectious substance must be described as ``Biological 
substance, Category B'' and assigned identification number UN 3373. 
This does not include regulated medical waste, which must be assigned 
UN 3291.
    (2) Biological product means a virus, therapeutic serum, toxin, 
antitoxin, vaccine, blood, blood component or derivative, allergenic 
product, or analogous product, or arsphenamine or derivative of 
arsphenamine (or any other trivalent arsenic compound) applicable to 
the prevention, treatment, or cure of a disease or condition of human 
beings or animals. A biological product includes a material 
manufactured and distributed in accordance with one of the following 
provisions: 9 CFR part 102 (Licenses for Biological Products); 9 CFR 
part 103 (Experimental Products, Distribution, and Evaluation of 
Biological Products Prior to Licensing); 9 CFR part 104 (Permits for 
Biological Products); 21 CFR part 312 (Investigational New Drug 
Application); 21 CFR part 314 (Applications for FDA Approval to Market 
a New Drug); 21 CFR parts 600 to 680 (Biologics); or 21 CFR part 812 
(Investigational Device Exemptions). Unless otherwise excepted, a 
biological product known or reasonably expected to contain a pathogen 
that meets the definition of a Category A or B infectious substance 
must be assigned the identification number UN 2814, UN 2900, or UN 
3373, as appropriate.
    (3) Culture means an infectious substance containing a pathogen 
that is intentionally propagated. Culture does not include a human or 
animal patient specimen as defined in paragraph (a)(4) of this section.
    (4) Patient specimen means human or animal materials that are 
collected directly from humans or animals and that are transported for 
research, diagnosis, investigational activities, or disease treatment 
or prevention. Patient specimen includes excreta, secreta, blood and 
its components, tissue and tissue swabs, body parts, and specimens in 
transport media (e.g., transwabs, culture media, and blood culture 
bottles).
    (5) Regulated medical waste means a waste or reusable material 
derived from the medical treatment of an animal or human, which 
includes diagnosis and immunization, or from biomedical research, which 
includes the production and testing of biological products. Regulated 
medical waste is assigned to UN 3291, except for regulated medical 
waste containing a Category A infectious substance, which must be 
classed as a Division 6.2 material, described as an infectious 
substance, and assigned to UN 2814 or UN 2900, as appropriate.
* * * * *
    (b) Exceptions. The following are not subject to the requirements 
of this subchapter as Division 6.2 materials:
    (1) A material that does not contain an infectious substance or 
that is unlikely to cause disease in humans or animals.
    (2) Non-infectious biological materials from humans, animals, or 
plants. Examples include non-infectious cells, tissue cultures, blood 
or plasma from individuals not suspected of having an infectious 
disease, DNA, RNA or other non-infectious genetic elements.
    (3) A material that contains micro-organisms that are non-
pathogenic to humans or animals.
    (4) A material that contains pathogens that have been neutralized 
or inactivated such that they no longer pose a health risk.
    (5) A material that has a low probability of containing an 
infectious substance, or where the concentration of the infectious 
substance is at a level naturally occurring in the environment so it 
cannot cause disease when exposure to it occurs. Examples of these 
materials include: foodstuffs; environmental samples, such as water or 
a sample of dust or mold; and substances that have been treated so that 
the pathogens have been neutralized or deactivated, such as a material 
treated by steam sterilization, chemical disinfection, or other 
appropriate method, so it no longer meets the definition of an 
infectious substance.
    (6) A biological product, including an experimental or 
investigational product or component of a product, subject to Federal 
approval, permit, review, or licensing requirements, such as those 
required by the Food and Drug Administration of the U.S. Department of 
Health and Human Services or the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
    (7) Blood collected for the purpose of blood transfusion or the 
preparation of blood products; blood products; plasma; plasma 
derivatives; blood components; tissues or organs intended for use in 
transplant operations; and human cell, tissues, and cellular and 
tissue-based products regulated under authority of the Public Health 
Service Act (42 U.S.C. 264-272) and/or the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act 
(21 U.S.C. 332 et seq.).
    (8) Blood, blood plasma, and blood components collected for the 
purpose of blood transfusion or the preparation of blood products and 
sent for testing as part of the collection process, except where the 
person collecting the blood has reason to believe it contains an 
infectious substance, in which case the test sample must be shipped as 
a Category A or Category B infectious substance in accordance with 
Sec.  173.196 or Sec.  173.199, as appropriate.
    (9) Dried blood spots or specimens for fecal occult blood detection 
placed on absorbent filter paper or other material.
    (10) A Division 6.2 material, other than a Category A infectious 
substance, that is contained in a patient sample being transported for 
research, diagnosis, investigational activities, or disease treatment 
or prevention, or a biological product, when such materials are 
transported by a private or contract carrier in a motor vehicle used 
exclusively to transport such materials. Medical or clinical equipment 
and laboratory products may be transported aboard the same vehicle 
provided they are properly packaged and secured against exposure or 
contamination. If the human or animal sample or biological product 
meets the definition of regulated medical waste in paragraph (a)(4) of 
this section, it must be offered for transportation and transported in 
conformance with the appropriate requirements for regulated medical 
waste.
    (11) A human or animal sample (including, but not limited to, 
secreta, excreta, blood and its components, tissue and tissue fluids, 
and body parts) being transported for routine testing that is not 
related to the diagnosis of an infectious disease, such as for drug/
alcohol testing, cholesterol testing, blood glucose level testing, 
prostate specific antibody testing, testing to monitor kidney or liver 
function, or pregnancy testing, or for tests for diagnosis of non-
infectious diseases, such as cancer biopsies, and for which there is a 
low probability that the sample is infectious.
    (12) Laundry or medical equipment conforming to the regulations of 
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the Department of 
Labor in 29 CFR 1910.1030. This exception includes medical equipment 
intended for use, cleaning, or refurbishment, such as reusable surgical 
equipment, or equipment used for testing where the components within

[[Page 29184]]

which the equipment is contained essentially function as packaging. 
This exception does not apply to medical equipment being transported 
for disposal.
    (13) Any waste or recyclable material, other than regulated medical 
waste, including--
    (i) Garbage and trash derived from hotels, motels, and households, 
including but not limited to single and multiple residences;
    (ii) Sanitary waste or sewage;
    (iii) Sewage sludge or compost;
    (iv) Animal waste generated in animal husbandry or food production; 
or
    (v) Medical waste generated from households and transported in 
accordance with applicable State, local, or tribal requirements.
    (14) Corpses, remains, and anatomical parts intended for interment, 
cremation, or medical research at a college, hospital, or laboratory.
    (15) Forensic material transported on behalf of a U.S. Government, 
state, local or Indian tribal government agency, except that--
    (i) Forensic material known or suspected to contain a Category B 
infectious substance must be shipped in a packaging conforming to the 
provisions of Sec.  173.24.
    (ii) Forensic material known or suspected to contain a Category A 
infectious substance or an infectious substance listed as a select 
agent in 42 CFR Part 73 must be transported in packaging capable of 
meeting the test standards in Sec.  178.609 of this subchapter. The 
secondary packaging must be marked with a BIOHAZARD symbol conforming 
to specifications in 29 CFR 1910.1030(g)(1)(i). An itemized list of 
contents must be enclosed between the secondary packaging and the outer 
packaging.
    (16) Agricultural products and food as defined in the Federal Food, 
Drug, and Cosmetics Act (21 U.S.C. 332 et seq.).
    (c) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (i) * * *
    (ii) The specific packaging requirements of Sec.  173.197, if 
packaged in a rigid non-bulk packaging conforming to the general 
packaging requirements of Sec. Sec.  173.24 and 173.24a and packaging 
requirements specified in 29 CFR 1910.1030, provided the material does 
not include a waste concentrated stock culture of an infectious 
substance. Sharps containers must be securely closed to prevent leaks 
or punctures.
    (2) A waste concentrated stock culture of a Category B infectious 
substance may be offered for transportation and transported as a 
regulated medical waste when it is packaged in a rigid non-bulk 
packaging conforming to the general packaging requirements of 
Sec. Sec.  173.24 and 173.24a and packaging requirements specified in 
29 CFR 1910.1030 and transported by a private or contract carrier in a 
vehicle used exclusively to transport regulated medical waste. Medical 
or clinical equipment and laboratory products may be transported aboard 
the same vehicle provided they are properly packaged and secured 
against exposure or contamination.
* * * * *
    13. In Sec.  173.196, the section title and paragraphs (a) 
introductory text, (a)(2), (a)(3), and (b) are revised, to read as 
follows.


Sec.  173.196  Category A infectious substances.

    (a) Category A infectious substances packaging. A packaging for a 
Division 6.2 material that is a Category A infectious substance must 
meet the test standards of Sec.  178.609 of this subchapter and must be 
marked in conformance with Sec.  178.503(f) of this subchapter. A 
packaging for a Category A infectious substance is a triple packaging 
consisting of the following components:
* * * * *
    (2) A watertight secondary packaging. If multiple fragile primary 
receptacles are placed in a single secondary packaging, they must be 
either wrapped individually or separated to prevent contact between 
them.
    (3) A rigid outer packaging of adequate strength for its capacity, 
mass and intended use. The outer packaging must measure not less than 
100 mm (3.9 inches) at its smallest overall external dimension.
* * * * *
    (b) Additional requirements for packaging Category A infectious 
substances. Category A infectious substances must be packaged according 
to the following requirements, depending on the physical state and 
other characteristics of the material.
    (1) Infectious substances shipped at ambient temperatures or 
higher. Primary receptacles must be made of glass, metal, or plastic. 
Positive means of ensuring a leakproof seal must be provided, such as 
heat seal, skirted stopper, or metal crimp seal. If screw caps are 
used, they must be secured by positive means, such as with adhesive 
tape, paraffin sealing tape, or manufactured locking closure. 
Lyophilized substances may also be transported in primary receptacles 
that are flame-sealed with glass ampoules or rubber-stoppered glass 
vials fitted with metal seals.
    (2) Infectious substances shipped refrigerated or frozen (ice, pre-
frozen packs, dry ice). Ice, dry ice, or other refrigerant must be 
placed around the secondary packagings or in an overpack with one or 
more complete packages marked in accordance with Sec.  178.503 of this 
subchapter. Interior supports must be provided to secure the secondary 
packagings in the original position after the ice or dry ice has 
dissipated. If ice is used, the outer packaging or overpack must be 
leakproof. If dry ice is used, the outer packaging or overpack must 
permit the release of carbon dioxide gas and otherwise meet the 
provisions in Sec.  173.217. The primary receptacle and the secondary 
packaging must maintain their integrity at the temperature of the 
refrigerant used, as well as the temperatures and pressures of 
transport by aircraft to which they could be subjected if refrigeration 
were lost.
    (3) Category A infectious substances shipped in liquid nitrogen. 
The primary receptacle and the secondary packaging must maintain their 
integrity at the temperature of the liquid nitrogen as well as the 
temperatures and pressures of transport by aircraft to which they could 
be subjected if refrigeration were lost. Refrigerated liquid nitrogen 
packagings must be metal vacuum insulated vessels or flasks vented to 
the atmosphere to prevent any increase in pressure within the 
packaging. The use of safety relief valves, check valves, frangible 
discs, or similar devices in the vent lines is prohibited. Fill and 
discharge openings must be protected against the entry of foreign 
materials that might cause an increase in the internal pressure. The 
package orientation markings specified in Sec.  172.312(a) of this 
subchapter must be marked on the packaging. The packaging must be 
designed to prevent the release of any refrigerated liquid nitrogen 
irrespective of the packaging orientation.
* * * * *
    14. In Sec.  173.197, paragraphs (a), (b), (d)(1)(iv), (d)(1)(vi), 
(d)(2)(iii), (d)(3)(vi), (e)(2) and (e)(3) introductory paragraph are 
revised to read as follows:


Sec.  173.197  Regulated medical waste.

    (a) General provisions. Non-bulk packagings, Large Packagings, and 
non-specification bulk outer packagings used for the transportation of 
regulated medical waste must be rigid containers meeting the provisions 
of subpart B of this part.
    (b) Non-bulk packagings. Except as provided in Sec.  
173.134(c)(1)(ii) of this subpart, non-bulk packagings for

[[Page 29185]]

regulated medical waste must be UN standard packagings conforming to 
the requirements of Part 178 of this subchapter at the Packing Group II 
performance level. A non-bulk packaging used as a sharps container must 
be puncture-resistant for sharps and sharps with residual fluid as 
demonstrated by conducting the performance tests in Part 178, subpart 
M, of this subchapter on packagings containing materials representative 
of the sharps and fluids (such as sterile sharps) intended to be 
transported in the packagings. Sharps containers must be securely 
closed to prevent leaks or punctures.
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (iv) Untreated concentrated stock cultures of infectious substances 
containing Category A materials may not be transported in a Cart or 
BOP.
* * * * *
    (vi) Division 6.1 or Class 7 chemotherapeutic waste; untreated 
concentrated stock cultures of infectious substances containing 
Category B infectious substances; unabsorbed liquids; and sharps 
containers may be transported in a Cart or BOP only if packaged in 
rigid non-bulk packagings conforming to paragraph (a) of this section.
* * * * *
    (2) * * *
    (iii) Each Cart must be capable of meeting the requirements of 
Sec.  178.810 (drop test) at the Packing Group II performance level.
* * * * *
    (3) * * *
    (vi) Division 6.1 or Class 7 chemotherapeutic waste, untreated 
concentrated stock cultures of infectious substances containing 
Category B infectious substances, unabsorbed liquids, and sharps may be 
transported in a BOP only if separated and secured as required in 
paragraph (d)(3)(v) of this section.
* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (2) Liquids. Liquid regulated medical waste transported in a Large 
Packaging, Cart, or BOP must be packaged in a rigid inner packaging 
conforming to the provisions of subpart B of this part. Liquid 
materials are not authorized for transportation in inner packagings 
having a capacity greater than 19 L (5 gallons).
    (3) Sharps. Sharps transported in a Large Packaging, Cart, or BOP 
must be packaged in a puncture-resistant inner packaging (sharps 
container). Each sharps container must be securely closed to prevent 
leaks or punctures. Each sharps container exceeding 76 L (20 gallons) 
in volume must be capable of passing the performance tests in Part 178, 
subpart M, of this subchapter at the Packing Group II performance 
level. A sharps container may be reused only if it conforms to the 
following criteria:
* * * * *
    15. In Sec.  173.199, the section title and paragraphs (a), (b) 
introductory text, (b)(1), (b)(2), (b)(5), and (c) are revised, 
paragraphs (d) and (e) are redesignated (e) and (f), respectively, new 
paragraph (d) is added, and redesignated paragraphs (e) introductory 
text and (f) are revised, to read as follows:


Sec.  173.199  Category B infectious substances and used health care 
products.

    (a) Category B infectious substances. Except as provided in this 
paragraph (a), Category B infectious substances are excepted from all 
other requirements of this subchapter when offered for transportation 
or transported in accordance with this section. Category B infectious 
substances offered for transportation or transported under the 
provisions of this section are subject to the incident reporting 
requirements in Sec. Sec.  171.15 and 171.16 of this subchapter and to 
the requirements in Sec.  175.85 of this subchapter concerning cargo 
location. Except as provided in paragraph (a)(9) of this section, a 
Category B infectious substance meeting the definition of a hazard 
class other than Division 6.2 must be offered for transportation or 
transported in accordance with applicable requirements of this 
subchapter.
    (1) A Category B infectious substance must be packaged in a triple 
packaging consisting of a primary receptacle, a secondary packaging, 
and a rigid outer packaging.
    (2) Primary receptacles must be packed in secondary packaging in 
such a way that, under normal conditions of transport, they cannot 
break, be punctured, or leak their contents into the secondary 
packaging.
    (3) Secondary packagings must be secured in rigid outer packagings 
with suitable cushioning material such that any leakage of the contents 
will not impair the protective properties of the cushioning material or 
the outer packaging.
    (4) The completed package must be designed, constructed, 
maintained, filled, its contents limited, and closed so that under 
conditions normally encountered in transportation, including removal 
from a pallet or overpack for subsequent handling, there will be no 
release of hazardous material into the environment. Package 
effectiveness must not be substantially reduced for minimum and maximum 
temperatures, changes in humidity and pressure, and shocks, loadings 
and vibrations normally encountered during transportation. The 
packaging must be capable of successfully passing the drop test in 
Sec.  178.603 of this subchapter at a drop height of at least 1.2 
meters (3.9 feet). Following the drop test, there must be no leakage 
from the primary receptacle, which must remain protected by absorbent 
material, when required, in the secondary packaging. At least one 
surface of the outer packaging must have a minimum dimension of 100 mm 
by 100 mm (3.9 inches).
    (5) The following mark must be displayed on the outer packaging on 
a background of contrasting color. The width of the line must be at 
least 2 mm (0.08 inches) and the letters and numbers must be at least 6 
mm (0.24 inches) high. The size of the mark must be such that no side 
of the diamond is less than 50 mm (1.97 inches) in length. The proper 
shipping name ``Biological substances, Category B'' must be marked on 
the outer packaging adjacent to the diamond-shaped mark in letters that 
are at least 6 mm (0.24 inches) high.

[[Page 29186]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP19MY05.034

    (6) When packages are placed in an overpack, the package markings 
required by this section must be either clearly visible or reproduced 
on the outside of the overpack.
    (7) The name, address, and telephone number of a person who is 
either knowledgeable about the material being shipped and has 
comprehensive emergency response and incident mitigation information 
for the material, or has immediate access to a person who possesses 
such knowledge and information, must be included on a written document 
(such as an air waybill or bill of lading) or on the outer packaging.
    (8) For transportation by aircraft, each package or overpack 
containing a Category B infectious substance must be inspected for 
leakage when it is unloaded from the aircraft. If evidence of leakage 
is found, the cargo compartment in which the package or overpack was 
transported must be disinfected. Disinfection may be by any means that 
will make the material released ineffective at transmitting disease.
    (9) A packaging containing inner packagings of Category B 
infectious substances may not contain other hazardous materials 
except--
    (i) Refrigerants, such as dry ice or liquid nitrogen, as authorized 
under paragraph (d) of this section;
    (ii) Anticoagulants used to stabilize blood or plasma; or
    (iii) Small quantities of Class 3, Class 8, Class 9, or other 
materials in Packing Groups II and III used to stabilize or prevent 
degradation of the sample, provided the quantity of such materials does 
not exceed 30 mL (1 ounce) or 30 g (1 ounce) in each inner packaging. 
Such materials are not subject to the requirements of this subchapter.
    (10) Clear instructions on filling and closing a packaging used to 
transport a Category B infectious substance must be provided by the 
packaging manufacturer and subsequent distributors to the consignor or 
person who prepares the package to enable the package to be correctly 
prepared for transport. A copy or electronic image of these 
instructions must be retained by the manufacturer and subsequent 
distributors for at least one year from the date of issuance, and made 
available for inspection by a Federal or State Government 
representative upon request. Packagings must be filled and closed in 
accordance with the information provided by the packaging manufacturer 
or subsequent distributor.
    (b) Liquid Category B infectious substances. Liquid Category B 
infectious substances must be packaged in conformance with the 
following provisions:
    (1) The primary receptacle must be leakproof.
    (2) Absorbent material must be placed between the primary 
receptacle and secondary packaging. If several fragile primary 
receptacles are placed in a single secondary packaging, they must be 
either individually wrapped or separated to prevent contact between 
them. The absorbent material must be of sufficient quantity to absorb 
the entire contents of the primary receptacles and not compromise the 
integrity of the cushioning material or the outer packaging.
* * * * *
    (5) For shipments by aircraft, the maximum quantity contained in 
each primary receptacle, including any material used to stabilize or 
prevent degradation of the sample, may not exceed 1 L (34 ounces), and 
the maximum quantity contained in each outer packaging, including any 
material used to stabilize or prevent degradation of the samples, may 
not exceed 4 L (1 gallon). The outer packaging limitation does not 
include ice, dry ice, or liquid nitrogen when used to maintain the 
integrity of the material.
    (c) Solid Category B infectious substances. Solid Category B 
infectious substances must be packaged in a triple packaging, 
consisting of a primary receptacle, secondary packaging, and outer 
packaging, conforming to the following provisions:
    (1) The primary receptacle must be siftproof.
    (2) If several fragile primary receptacles are placed in a single 
secondary packaging, they must be either individually wrapped or 
separated to prevent contact between them.
    (3) The secondary packaging must be siftproof.
    (4) If there is any doubt as to whether residual liquid may be 
present in the primary receptacle during transportation, then the 
material must be transported in accordance with requirements in 
paragraph (b) of this section.
    (5) Except for packages containing body parts, organs, or whole 
bodies, for shipment by aircraft, the outer packaging may not contain 
more than 4 kg (8.8 pounds), including any material used to stabilize 
or prevent degradation of the samples. The outer packaging limitation 
does not include ice, dry ice, or liquid nitrogen when used to maintain 
the integrity of the material.

[[Page 29187]]

    (d) Refrigerated or frozen specimens (ice, dry ice, and liquid 
nitrogen). In addition to complying with the requirements in this 
paragraph (d), dry ice and liquid nitrogen must be offered for 
transportation or transported in accordance with the applicable 
requirements of this subchapter.
    (1) Ice or dry ice must be placed outside the secondary packaging 
or in an overpack. Interior supports must be provided to secure the 
secondary packagings in the original position after the ice or dry ice 
has dissipated. If ice is used, the outside packaging must be leakproof 
or must have a leakproof liner. If dry ice is used, the outside 
packaging must permit the release of carbon dioxide gas and otherwise 
meet the provisions in Sec.  173.217. The primary receptacle and 
secondary packaging must maintain their integrity at the temperature of 
the refrigerant used, as well as the temperatures and pressures of 
transport by aircraft they could be subjected to if refrigeration were 
lost, and sufficient absorbent material must be provided to absorb all 
liquid, including melted ice.
    (2) The package is marked ``Carbon dioxide, solid'' or ``Dry ice'' 
and an indication that the material being refrigerated is used for 
diagnostic treatment purposes (e.g., frozen medical specimens).
    (e) Used health care products. A used health care product being 
returned to the manufacturer or the manufacturer's designee is excepted 
from the requirements of this subchapter when offered for 
transportation or transported in accordance with this section. For 
purposes of this section, a health care product is used when it has 
been removed from its original inner packaging. Used health care 
products contaminated with or suspected of contamination with a 
Category A infectious substance may not be transported under the 
provisions of this section.
* * * * *
    (f) Training. Each person who offers or transports a Category B 
infectious substance or used health care product under the provisions 
of this section must know about the requirements of this section.

PART 175--CARRIAGE BY AIRCRAFT

    16. The authority citation for part 175 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.

    17. In Sec.  175.630, the section heading is revised and paragraph 
(c) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  175.630  Special requirements for Division 6.1 (poisonous) 
material and Division 6.2 (infectious substances) materials.

* * * * *
    (c) When unloaded from the aircraft, each package or overpack 
containing a Division 6.2 material must be inspected for signs of 
leakage. If evidence of leakage is found, the cargo compartment in 
which the package or overpack was transported must be disinfected. 
Disinfection may be by any means that will make the material released 
ineffective at transmitting disease.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on May 10, 2005, under the authority 
delegated in 49 CFR part 106.
Robert A. McGuire,
Associate Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety.
[FR Doc. 05-9717 Filed 5-18-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-60-P