Guidelines for handling mail

Stanford University Environmental Health & Safety, October 25, 2001

The following guidelines are for people who have questions about how mailrooms and offices should handle mail or parcels that may contain a threat of biological, chemical, radiological agents, or explosive materials.

General precautions:

• Stay alert and aware for suspicious packages (See EH&S guidelines for "Biological Threats Received by Mail")

• Wash your hands with warm soap and water after handling mail.

• Do not eat, drink, apply cosmetics or smoke around mail.

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves and gowns are generally not necessary or recommended.

However, if mail-handling employees elect to wear PPE for comfort purposes, department supervisors can assist by providing disposable masks and gloves upon request.

Disposable gloves

Non-powdered latex, nitrile, or vinyl gloves are common options for general barrier protection. Since some people may be allergic to latex, nitrile or vinyl types should be considered.

Disposable masks

Disposable masks with an "N"- rating (i.e., N95, N99, N100) are known to provide better protection than non-rated dust masks (assuming the masks are properly worn). Due to the current heavy demand for masks, delivery may be delayed.

If you have any questions about these guidelines, contact EH&S at 723-0448.