Hazardous materials must be shipped through Radiological and Environmental Management

The use of hazardous materials is an integral part of research at Purdue. At times, it is necessary to ship these materials to a colleague, another research facility, back to the manufacturer or to a field research site. All hazardous materials must be shipped through Radiological and Environmental Management (REM).

Hazardous materials may include items such as:

• Laboratory chemicals (including research samples).
• Dry ice.
• Radioactive materials.
• Compressed gases.
• Biological agents.
• Equipment or instruments that contain hazardous materials.
• Lithium batteries and other rechargeable batteries.

To comply with shipping regulations, hazardous materials must be properly classified, packaged, documented and handled by trained employees. Failure to meet these requirements may result in delays, loss of research samples and potential regulatory fines. Hazardous materials should never be transported in carry-on or checked luggage. REM’s certified hazardous materials professionals provide shipping preparation services free of charge; however, the shipper is responsible for the cost of proper packaging materials, dry ice (if applicable) and shipping costs. 

More information on shipping hazardous materials can be found on REM’s website. Arrangements should be made well in advance for special requests, unusual materials or large volume shipments. Contact REM at 765-494-0121 or hazmatshipping@purdue.edu to schedule shipments or ask questions regarding shipping hazardous materials.