Environment, Health and Safety Online
The site for free, objective information you can use! Search the site
Contact Info for:
EPA
State agencies
OSHA
DOT
Regs:
Search Government regs and sites
Data: Search EPA databases
Other Topics:
Information About How to Recognize and Handle a Suspicious Package or Envelope
In 2001, letters containing Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) have been received by mail in several areas in the United States. In some instances, anthrax exposures have occurred, with several persons becoming infected. With these anthrax events in the news, a recent case of bubonic plague, and news oif potential smallpox terrorist attacks, remaining vigilant and learning how to recognize a suspicious situation is more important. To prevent such exposures and subsequent infection, all persons should learn how to recognize a suspicious package or envelope and take appropriate steps to protect themselves and others
Identifying Suspicious Packages and Envelopes
Some characteristics of suspicious packages and envelopes include the following:
Inappropriate or unusual labeling
 | Appearance | Other suspicious signs | |
If a package or envelope appears suspicious, DO NOT OPEN IT.
Handling of Suspicious Packages or Envelopes*
| Do not shake or empty the contents of any suspicious package or envelope. | Do not carry the package or envelope, show it to others or allow others to examine it. | Put the package or envelope down on a stable surface; do not sniff, touch, taste, or look closely at it or at any contents which may have spilled. | Alert others in the area about the suspicious package or envelope. Leave the area, close any doors, and take actions to prevent others from entering the area. If possible, shut off the ventilation system. | WASH hands with soap and water to prevent spreading potentially infectious material to face or skin. Seek additional instructions for exposed or potentially exposed persons. | If at work, notify a supervisor, a security officer, or a law enforcement official. If at home, contact the local law enforcement agency. | If possible, create a list of persons who were in the room or area when this suspicious letter or package was recognized and a list of persons who also may have handled this package or letter. Give this list to both the local public health authorities and law enforcement officials | |
*These recommendations were published on October 26, 2001, in “Update: Investigation of bioterrorism-related anthrax and interim guidelines for exposure management and antimicrobial therapy.” MMWR 2001;50:909-919
Much more information about anthrax
|
Environmental Health & Safety Online | |
| Table of Contents to free guidance and resources: http://www.ehso.com/contents.php | |
|
Environmental and safety services for business - training, consulting, assessments, ISO14000, report and permit preparations and expert testimony: http://www.ehso.com/EHSservices/enviserv.htm | |
|
If you provide environmental, safety, transportation, or related services or products; such as training, consulting, management, etc., EHSO would like to hear from you. We are looking for quality professionals to offer their services as affiliates. Please contact us via feedback. |
Email: |
|
How to get help with your questions | |
