Which statement best describes Category A infectious substances?

Which statement best describes Category A infectious substances?

• A. They are infectious substances capable of causing death or severe disease in humans or animals.
• B. They are infectious substances not capable of causing serious disease.
• C. They are exempt from labeling.
• D. They are liquids only.

Answer: (A)

Category A infectious substances are defined by their potential to cause death or severe disease in humans or animals. This severity is what drives their control in the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, so shipments of Category A materials require stricter packaging and labeling and proper training for handlers. They are assigned UN2814 when they pose danger to humans or animals. The other statements don’t fit because these substances are not exempt from labeling, they’re not restricted to liquids only (they can be solids or other forms), and they are characterized by the possibility of serious disease, not the absence of it.

Category A infectious substances are defined by their potential to cause death or severe disease in humans or animals. This severity is what drives their control in the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, so shipments of Category A materials require stricter packaging and labeling and proper training for handlers. They are assigned UN2814 when they pose danger to humans or animals. The other statements don’t fit because these substances are not exempt from labeling, they’re not restricted to liquids only (they can be solids or other forms), and they are characterized by the possibility of serious disease, not the absence of it.