Patient specimens are materials collected directly from humans or animals and transported for research, diagnosis, investigational activities, or disease treatment or prevention. Patient specimens include excreta, secreta, blood and its components, tissue and tissue swabs, body parts, and specimens in transport media (e.g., transwabs, culture media, and blood culture bottles). 

Patient specimens that, according to professional judgment, have a minimal likelihood of containing pathogens are exempt from the hazardous materials regulation but are subject to packaging and labeling requirements.