Which DOT Hazard Class covers biological agents and toxins?

• A. Hazard Class 1
• B. Hazard Class 2
• C. Hazard Class 7
• D. Hazard Class 6

Answer: (D)

Biological agents and toxins fit under Hazard Class 6 because this class covers Toxic Substances and Infectious Substances. Within Class 6, infectious substances (Division 6.2) include materials containing pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, as well as clinical or diagnostic specimens that could cause disease. Some toxins from biological sources are treated as toxic substances (Division 6.1) when their danger comes from chemical toxicity rather than infectious risk, but the overall category that covers biological agents and toxins is Hazard Class 6. That’s why this option is the correct one, rather than explosive materials (Class 1), gases (Class 2), or radioactive materials (Class 7).