After removing a Category B package from cold conditions, how long must you wait before performing the drop test?

• A. 10 minutes
• B. 15 minutes
• C. 30 minutes
• D. 60 minutes

Answer: (B)

The test assumes the package has reached ambient temperature before the drop is performed. When a package stored cold is dropped while still cold, surface moisture can condense and cold-related changes in material strength can affect the result, producing a misleading outcome. Waiting 15 minutes gives enough time for the contents and packaging to warm to ambient conditions so the drop test reflects normal handling. Shorter times risk condensation or cold stiffness skewing the result, while longer waits don’t add meaningful accuracy.