Dry Ice
Dry Ice Shipping
Contact Environmental Health & Safety when you have dry ice shipping needs so that certified, trained shippers can ensure all packaging and documentation regulations are followed.
Failure to follow Federal guidelines when shipping with dry ice can have serious consequences. Regulatory compliance is the responsibility of the individual preparing and shipping the package. Violations of dangerous goods shipping regulations carries both civil and criminal penalties, and fines exceed $25,000 even for a first offense. Dry ice is classified by DOT and IATA as a 'miscellaneous' hazard, class 9.
Dry ice is considered hazardous during transportation for three reasons:
- Explosion hazard: dry ice releases a large volume of carbon dioxide gas as it sublimates. If packaged in a container that does not allow for the release of the gas, it may explode, causing personal injury or property damage.
- Suffocation hazard: a large volume of carbon dioxide gas emitted in a confined space may create an oxygen deficient atmosphere.
- Contact hazard: dry ice is a cryogenic material that causes severe frostbite upon contact with skin.
For assistance with shipping hazardous materials, contact Charlotte Waggoner (biologicals) at 540-231-5864 or Kenny Osborne (chemical/radiological) at 540-231-2509.