Sending specimens through the post

[Melus]

Not sure if anyone out there can help.

I am not one for killing insects etc but I need to send a Springtail through the post to hopefully achieve a positive ID.

The website states place the specimen in 70% alcohol solution. I am using Isopropanol which I believe is OK to use.

I intend placing the small glass tube and contents in a 'Jiffy' bag but was wondering if I need to mark the bag 'Bio Hazard' or something similar to conform with Health and Safety regulations.

Anyone any idea?

Regards
Gary

[charlieb]

These might be of some use:

http://www.royalmail.com/portal/rm/c...diaId=36200675

and

http://www.royalmail.com/portal/rm/c...diaId=36200679

and

http://www.royalmail.com/portal/rm/c...mediaId=400251

[ChrisR]

I wouldn't bother with any special labels - the volume you are sending isn't significant. But I would sticky-tape the lid down nice and tight so that it doesn't come undone and I would wrap it with cotton wool and put it in a box to protect it in transit The only label you might feel like putting on the outside is "Dead entomological specimens for personal study - no commercial value" but I would only do that on international parcels.

[Melus]

Many thanks CharlieB for the link it appears as long as the alcohol is only 70% then no probs.

Thanks ChrisR for the advice I'll make sure its securly packed

Regards
Gary

[JRsbugs]

As Chris suggested, use something which won't crush, you would be surprised how the post is handled. Plenty of bubble wrap inside a small box, or rigid tube so it can't get bashed about will do the job.

Janet

[Paul mabbott]

Yes, 70% isopropanol is as effective as 70% ethanol.
Use sufficient absorbent material to mop up any alcohol should the container break.
I've never put any label on such post - 'bioogical material' labels only necessary for live, dangerous, toxic or infectious materials!

[oxycera]

I usually stick a label saying 'fragile', though I've no idea if that makes any difference.

[JRsbugs]

Originally Posted by oxycera

I usually stick a label saying 'fragile', though I've no idea if that makes any difference.

One word NO. Apart from the way mail is sorted, you have to remember that all humans are not the same. A 'fragile' lable to some can be like a red rag to a bull. Then there are so many now who are employed on part time or temporary contracts on low wages, which again is a red rag to a bull.

Anything sent through the post should be packed as if a heavy box could fall on it without damage, remember there can be heavy Royal Mail standard parcels.

[Cowgirl]

I agree with the others, you wont need special labels, I used to send samples of stuff (some stuff you really wouldn't want to know!) inc insects in alcohol soln all the time, indeed I could describe myself as a queen of packaging (I really must get a life!) & your sample will be perfectly fine, if you can't find the right size box, wrap the bottle in plenty cardboard & put in a jiffy bag.

Just make sure its sealed as post workers get a bit upset if packages leak (& who can blame them!) I also agree that a fragile sticker makes no difference whatsover as I have heard rumours of said workers playing football with such items.

[oxycera]

[QUOTE I also agree that a fragile sticker makes no difference whatsover as I have heard rumours of said workers playing football with such items.[/quote]

Well, that's handy to know.