How can we identify which substances are classified as Category A?

Identifying substances classified as Category A is primarily done using an Indicative List of Category A Infectious Substances. This list is a crucial part of the regulatory framework that assists in the classification of materials that are known to pose a significant risk to public health and safety. Category A substances include those that can cause disease in humans or animals and can be easily transmitted.

The use of an Indicative List ensures that those working with or transporting such materials have clear guidelines based on established scientific criteria, helping promote safety and compliance with transportation regulations. This structured approach allows for consistent identification and classification across different contexts and jurisdictions.

While color coding, manufacturer labels, and chemical composition can provide useful information, they are not definitive methods for identifying Category A substances. Color coding may not be comprehensive or universally applied, manufacturer labels might not specifically denote infectious classifications, and chemical composition alone doesn't determine infectious risks. Therefore, relying on the Indicative List is the most effective means for accurate identification.