What does 95kPa mean?

"kPa" stands for kilopascals, a unit of pressure within the International System of Units (SI). Specifically, 1 kilopascal (kPa) is equal to 1,000 pascals, and one pascal is defined as one newton of force applied per square meter of area. Therefore, 95kPa represents a pressure of 95,000 newtons per square meter.

In the context of biological sample transportation, the 95kPa standard refers to the internal pressure that a primary container (such as a vial, tube, or bag holding the sample) must be able to withstand without leaking when subjected to specific conditions. This requirement is outlined in international regulations, most notably by the United Nations (UN) and adopted by transport authorities like the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Requirements for safe transportation of biological specimens

Packaging standards:

The transport containers or packaging materials of highly pathogenic microorganisms shall comply with the Class A packaging standards specified in the ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (DOC9284 Packaging Instructions PI602).
The packaging must meet the requirements of waterproof, damage-proof, leakage-proof and high-pressure resistance.

Labels and logos:

The packaging should be printed with biological hazard labels, logos, as well as transportation registration forms, warning terms and prompt terms, in accordance with the regulations of the health authorities or veterinary authorities of the State Council.

Physical properties:

The primary container and auxiliary packaging should be able to withstand an internal pressure difference of not less than 95kPa and be leak-free within a temperature range of -40℃ to 55℃.

External markings:

The outer packaging should be marked with UN2814 (Class A infectious substances that can infect humans) or UN2900 (Class A infectious substances that only infect animals).
The background color of the mark should be significantly different to ensure clear visibility and easy identification.

Specific Shipping Name:

The specific shipping name must be indicated on the outer packaging near the diamond mark, such as "Infectious Substances Affecting Humans" or "Infectious Substances Affecting Animals".

These requirements are to ensure the safety and integrity of biological samples during transportation, prevent the leakage or spread of pathogenic microorganisms, and thus protect public health and safety.

Ensuring the safe transit of biological specimens is a global priority, with stringent regulations in place to protect both public health and environmental safety. Key to these regulations is the 95kPa pressure standard, which mandates that primary containers like vials and bags must withstand significant internal pressure changes without leakage, particularly crucial during air transport where cabin pressure can fluctuate.

Beyond this, robust packaging must be waterproof, damage-proof, and leak-proof, often adhering to Class A packaging standards for highly pathogenic microorganisms. Clear labeling is also mandatory, including biological hazard symbols, transport registration details, and specific shipping names like "Infectious Substances Affecting Humans" or "Animals," alongside external markings such as UN2814 or UN2900 for easy identification.

These comprehensive measures collectively guarantee the integrity of the samples during transit and prevent the spread of potentially harmful microorganisms.