What is typically done to protect specimens during transport?

Using a special transport bag labeled with the biohazard symbol is a crucial practice for protecting specimens during transport. This labeling serves multiple purposes; it ensures that anyone handling the specimens is aware of the potential biohazard risk associated with the materials contained within, reducing the likelihood of accidental exposure or contamination. Additionally, these bags are typically designed to provide a secure and leak-proof environment for specimens, helping to maintain their integrity and prevent spills during transit. Proper labeling and packaging are essential to comply with safety regulations and to convey important information to transport personnel and receiving laboratories.

While placing specimens in a cooler, sealing them in airtight containers, and wrapping them in plastic are all methods that could be used in specific contexts to protect samples from temperature fluctuations or contamination, they do not inherently address the necessary biohazard considerations that come with potentially infectious or dangerous materials. Thus, the use of a specially marked transport bag is not only a safety measure but also a regulatory requirement in many situations.