Should mail-handling facilities take air and/or surface samples for traces of anthrax?
No. Routine sampling is not recommended, unless an employer has a reason to suspect that anthrax contamination has occurred. If there is a suspected exposure or contamination, established emergency response procedures must be followed. • What is the safest way to handle individual letters or packages? • Be on the lookout for suspicious envelopes or packages. • DO NOT open suspicious mail. • Open all mail with a letter opener or other method that minimizes skin contact with the mail and is least likely to disturb contents. • Open mail with a minimum amount of movement. • DO NOT blow into envelopes. • DO NOT shake or pour out contents. • Keep hands away from nose and mouth while working with and opening mail. • While opening mail, turn off fans, portable heaters, and other equipment that may create air currents. • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling mail. • More information is available in OSHA’s Workplace Response to Anthrax Threat: OSHA Recommendations for Handling
