Prototype Assembly & Feedback

SAND2022-10278 W

Thank you for volunteering to help Sandia National Laboratories and the University of Madiguri with our Infectious Substance Shipping & Transport Packaging Design Project. As part of our team, we would like you to assemble our package prototype and provide us with feedback on the design.

Please read and complete the instructions below to obtain materials for and assemble the package prototype. There are questions throughout to gather your feedback on the process. Please complete these questions to the best of your ability.

Disclaimer: This design is intended for shipping and transport of infectious substances within Nigeria by ground or air only. International shipments of infectious substances are subject to UN guidelines. At this time, these package designs have not been tested or certified to meet international air transportation regulations.

Please acquire the supplies and assemble the prototype at your own risk. Sandia National Laboratories is not responsible for injury or other risks.

Our goal is to design a prototype that:

1. Utilizes materials easily obtained in Nigeria.

2. Is low cost compared to certified UN packaging.

3. Can be easily assembled, disinfected and reused.

4. Provides improved security and safety over other types of packaging currently used for shipping and transportation of infectious substances.

Obtaining Materials

Please utilize local markets, stores, and online retailers in Nigeria to obtain components for the prototype.

Materials needed (makes 1 prototype):

1. 4.546 L (1 gal) paint can outer packaging. This will serve as the rigid outer packaging.
2. Primary receptacle (e.g. test tube, vacutainer)
3. PVC pipe assembly secondary packaging:
   1. <76.2 mm or 3-inch diameter PVC pipe. Length will vary depending on fittings used. This will serve as the secondary packaging and must fit snugly inside the paint can.
   2. Female socket cap.
   3. Straight adapter, female socket x female threaded
   4. Male threaded end cap.
4. Absorbent packing material (e.g. paper towels, gauze/pads) sufficient to secure and cushion the primary receptacle(s) inside the secondary packaging.
5. Non-absorbent foam cushioning. This will secure and cushion the secondary packaging inside the paint can outer packaging.

Tools needed:

1. Super glue
2. PVC glue or cement
3. Safety knife, utility knife, or scissors
4. Pipe cutter, hacksaw/miter saw, or nylon string
5. Rubber mallet/hammer