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Published on: October 18, 2010
Infectious Sample Transport: Evaluating the Use of Parafilm for Sealing Primary Containers
Jay Robinson1, Antony Spencer1, Simon Parks1
1Diagnostics and Pathogen Characterisation, UK Health Security Agency, Salisbury, United Kingdom.
Summary
Parafilm wrapping may reduce leakage from infectious substance transport tubes, especially when lids are cross-threaded. However, careful unwrapping is still crucial to prevent spills during sample handling.
Area of Science:
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Laboratory Safety and Specimen Handling
- Materials Science and Engineering
Background:
- Transport of infectious substances is strictly regulated, requiring triple packaging and leakproof receptacles.
- Despite regulations, leakages from primary receptacles during transport occur.
- Evidence regarding the efficacy of Parafilm for preventing leakage is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of Parafilm in preventing leakage from common primary receptacles during simulated ground transport.
- To assess the impact of Parafilm application methods on leakage prevention.
Main Methods:
- Simulated ground transport using manual inversion and a rocker testing method.
- Tested two types of primary receptacles with three different volumes of fluorescein solution.
- Performed tests in quintuplicate, measuring leakage visually and by weight changes.
Main Results:
- 10% of 30 mL universal tubes leaked when lids were correctly applied and subjected to rocker testing.
- 92.5% of 30 mL universal tubes with cross-threaded lids leaked.
- 2 mL Sarstedt tubes showed no leakage, even with cross-threaded lids.
- Clockwise Parafilm application reduced leakage, while wrapping over and under offered no additional benefit.
Conclusions:
- Clockwise Parafilm application may mitigate leakage risks associated with cross-threaded lids.
- Safe handling during unwrapping remains critical, as spillage can occur.
- Further research is needed on the impact of pressure during air transport.
