Module 3
Training, Safety, Privacy & Compliance
HIPAA, chain of custody, specimens, temperature control, and when OSHA or DOT rules apply.
HIPAA and patient privacy, in plain language
HIPAA is a federal law that protects patients' health information. As a courier you may see names, labels, or paperwork. Treat it all as private: don't read, photograph, share, or leave it visible in your vehicle.
Couriers working for or with healthcare providers often must sign confidentiality agreements and complete privacy training the employer provides.
Chain of custody & proof of delivery
Chain of custody is the documented record of who had an item, when, and where. Every handoff is logged — usually by scan, signature, or photo.
Proof of delivery (POD) confirms the item arrived to the right person. Never skip a scan or sign for someone else.
Specimens, temperature, and infection control
Specimens travel in sealed, labeled packaging. Keep containers upright and secured, and never open them.
Temperature-sensitive items (refrigerated, frozen, room temp) have set ranges. Follow the employer's cooler, ice pack, and logging procedures.
Infection-control awareness: use gloves when instructed, keep a spill kit if provided, and wash hands. Report any leak immediately using the employer's incident procedure.
When OSHA, DOT, and hazmat rules apply
OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard applies when an employer's workers have reasonably anticipated exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. Employers must then provide training at no cost to the employee.
The DOT's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) regulates transport of hazardous materials, which can include some infectious substances (e.g., Category B biological substances, dry ice). Hazmat training is legally required for workers who perform covered functions.
Commercial vehicle rules (FMCSA) generally apply to larger vehicles, not standard cars — but check if you drive a van or truck across state lines.
Important: never handle specimens or regulated materials without the employer's instructions and the training required for that cargo.
What you should know
- Privacy, chain of custody, and proof of delivery are non-negotiable.
- Bloodborne pathogen and hazmat training are legally required only in specific circumstances.
- Employers usually provide the required training.
Actions to take
- Read the HHS HIPAA summary page (15 minutes).
- Skim OSHA's bloodborne pathogens overview.
- Ask every employer: "What training do you provide for specimen handling?"
Checklist
0 of 4 done · saved on this device
Useful links
Real-world example
On a route, Jordan notices a damp specimen bag. Instead of opening it, she bags it in the provided secondary bag, gloves up, notifies dispatch, and logs an incident report — exactly as trained.
Knowledge check
Who usually provides bloodborne pathogen training when required?
Chain of custody means…