Steps Being Taken to Protect Postal Employees
And Public From Anthrax Exposure

Burrus Update #54, Oct. 12, 2001

Additional reports have been received regarding anthrax exposures through mail pieces. There is a concern at USPS headquarters, and appropriate steps are being taken to provide maximum protection to postal employees and the public. To date, there is no conclusive evidence that mail pieces involved in the Florida or New York exposures were processed and delivered through the U.S. mail. The FBI is conducting a thorough investigation; and as soon as results are received, you will be informed.

Postal management has extended a hand to the labor unions and management organizations to convene a team to evaluate all information and prepare instructions for protection. Jack Potter, the Postmaster General, initiated a telephone conference this afternoon expressing his concern and intent to move collectively to protect postal employees. Corey Thompson, Safety and Health Specialist for APWU, was designated as the APWU representative who will meet daily with postal officials to review all current and pertinent information and to prepare responses to the possible exposure.

Local unions are advised to refrain from giving media interviews at this time. Local media will be reaching out to complete their stories, seeking the union=s input. At this time there is no evidence that the anthrax exposure is directly related to postal employment. As investigations are finalized, it is possible that this conclusion will be reached; but until then there is little specific information that you can share. There is no value at this point in criticizing postal management.

As further information is available, we will communicate it from the national level. Any union official having specific questions should contact Corey Thompson of my staff.

Bill Burrus
Executive Vice President

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