Specimen Handling

Packaging

Government regulations require that all body fluids be packaged in a manner which protects against breakage or leaks. A specimen should be placed in the sealed portion of the bag and the requisition form in the separate pouch to avoid contamination. Inside packaging should carry a Biohazard label. If the specimen is known to be or highly suspected to be infectious, a Biohazard label should be put on the outside packaging, too. Unless otherwise noted, specimens should be packaged and stored at 4 to 20°C.

Supplies

Specimen bags, test requisition forms, and mailing tubes will be supplied by FBR upon request.

Specimen Transport / Courier Service

Specimens can be sent by US mail or by package delivery services such as FedEx, UPS, or Airborne. Please send packages so that they do not arrive at FBR on weekends or holidays. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the sender. Courier services are available between FBR and most Maine locations. To determine whether courier services are available in your area, please call Clinical Support.