According to the dangerous goods transport regulations the following definitions apply (ADR, 2.2.62.1.3 and 2.2.9.1.11):

• Pathogens: Microorganisms (including bacteria, viruses, rickettsiae, parasites, fungi) and other agents such as prions, which can cause disease in humans, animals or plants. Under the context of the contained use ordinance, this also includes biological material such as infectious viral vectors.

• Zoonotic agents: Microorganisms that cause or may cause disease in people and animals.
  

• Genetically modified (micro)- organisms: (Micro)organisms in which genetic material has been purposely altered through genetic engineering in a way that does not occur naturally. The detailed definition is given in the contained use ordinance. This also includes infectious genetically modified material such as viral vectors. Under the context of the transport requirements, genetically modified microorganisms are considered as pathogens if they meet the definition of infectious substances.

• Infectious substances: Substances which are known or are reasonably expected to contain pathogens.

• Cultures: The result of a process by which pathogens or genetically modified (micro)organisms are intentionally propagated.

• Patient specimens: Human or animal substances, collected directly form humans or animals, including, but not limited to, excreta, secreta, blood and its components, tissue and tissue fluids swabs, and body parts being carried for purposes such as research, diagnosis, investigational activities, disease treatment and prevention.

• Medical and clinical waste: Waste derived from the medical treatment of animals or humans or from bio-research.

• Shipper, Consignor: Person or institution sending substances

• Consignee: Person or institution receiving substances

• Carrier: Person or institution carrying out the transport operation

• Safety Adviser: Person responsible for helping to prevent possible risks which may occur during transport operations with regard to people, property and the environment.