Currents--University of Rochester

October 22,
2001

Contents

In Brief

Currents--University of Rochester newspaper

TO: The University Community

FROM: Ronald J. Paprocki, Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance

RE: Cautionary Steps Regarding Incoming Mail

There are many stories in the media these days about the possibility of organizations receiving envelopes with suspicious powder. A few mailings--in other cities--have in fact proved to contain anthrax spores.

At the University, no dangerous substances have been received, nor do we have reason to believe that this institution is a target. But it is prudent to remind those in the University community about what to do should they receive what looks like a suspicious letter or package.

When should I be concerned about an envelope or package?

Most know through the media what constitutes a "suspicious envelope." Authorities now cite some of these indicators: letters that are hand-addressed, perhaps with misspellings; with no return address; with a return address that doesn't match the postmark. Other causes for concern are wires protruding from a package or envelope, an oily stain on the outside; an oddly shaped package or one of unusual weight given its size; powder or granules in or on an envelope or package; excessive postage. Please use common sense in evaluating the envelopes or packages that come to your desk.

What should I do?

See the list of protocols that follow this memo.

Again, we have no reason to think that University offices are particular targets of any dangerous mailings, but we appreciate that recent national events have heightened awareness in the University community and around the country. We are working with a variety of health, security, and facilities staff to make sure that the right procedures are in place. Please be appropriately cautious while continuing the work of the University. If you have any questions, please call University Risk Management and Environmental Safety at x5-3241.

PROTOCOLS FOR MAIL HANDLING October 19, 2001

General:

Common sense and care should be used in inspecting and opening mail or packages.

Examine unopened envelopes for foreign bodies or powder.

Do not open letters with your hands: use a letter opener.

Open letters and packages with a minimum of movement to avoid spilling any contents.

Types of letters that may be suspect:

Any letter or package that has suspicious or threatening messages written on it.

Letters with oily stains.

Envelopes that are lopsided, rigid, bulky, discolored, or have a strange odor.

Envelopes with no return address.

Unexpected envelopes from foreign countries.

No postage, non-cancelled postage, or excessive postage.

Hand-written address, perhaps improper spelling of common names, places, or titles.

For suspect envelopes:

1. DO NOT OPEN THE ENVELOPE OR PACKAGE.

2. LEAVE it and EVACUATE the room.

3. DO NOT shake, empty, or disturb the contents.

4. KEEP others from entering.

5. NOTIFY your supervisor and Security at x13.

For packages that are opened and which contain powder:

1. DO NOT PANIC. Anthrax organisms can cause skin infection, gastrointestinal infection, or pulmonary infection. To do so, the organism must be able to enter the skin through a cut or scrape or be swallowed or inhaled as a fine, aerosolized mist. It does not leap into the body. All forms of disease are generally treatable with antibiotics.

2. Gently close the suspicious letter or package and place it on the nearest flat surface.

Do not shake, empty, or disturb the contents of any suspicious envelope or package.

Do not attempt to smell or to closely examine any powder or suspicious substance.

Do not carry the letter or package for others to examine.

Do not place the letter or package in a plastic bag or other container.

Do not attempt to clean up any spilled powder.

Do not attempt to cover any spilled powder.

3. Leave the room immediately and close the doors.

4. Notify your supervisor and Security at x13.

5. Wait in an adjacent area until responders arrive.

6. Do not allow others to enter the area.

7. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or any other part of your body.

8. Wash your hands with soap and water if a sink is available. Do not use bleach or disinfectants on your skin.

9. If clothing is heavily contaminated, don't brush vigorously.

10. Make a list all of the people who were in the room or area when the suspicious letter or package was recognized.

Updated 10/19/01 based on NYS Department of Health guidelines.

Maintained by University Public Relations
Please send your comments and suggestions to:
Public Relations.


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