Biological

Many people have questions about how mailrooms and offices should handle mail that may contain a written threat of chemical or biological material, or mail that may contain some form of powder. Following are common-sense steps to take in the workplace. They have been developed jointly by health professionals, the FBI and the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services.

• OES Guidelines Developed For Handling Suspicious Mail

In the event of a situation with grossly contaminated premises or persons, a Hazmat response is appropriate. In other situations, personal protective equipment [PPE] beyond gloves is not required and the following guidelines are recommended. These guidelines were developed by knowledgeable professionals from the Department of Health Services and the Emergency Medical Services Authority, in consultation with OES.

• Guidelines for Handling Envelopes or Packages Suspected to Contain Biological Agents

The California Hospital Bioterrorism Response Planning Guide was developed by the Department of Health Services to assist hospitals in preparing for a possible bioterrorism event. Reducing the transmission of infectious agents such as plague, smallpox and viral hemorrhagic fevers to staff, patients, and the community will depend on how rapidly victims, including the worried-well, can be triaged, diagnosed, isolated when necessary, and treated.

Early verbal or electronic communication with local health departments is essential in identifying, controlling and preventing disease transmission. Maintenance or transfer of other ongoing, essential hospital functions is also important, and will depend to a large degree on the effectiveness of planning for and implementation of response to a bioterrorist event.

• California Hospital Bioterrorism Response Planning Guide

• View the Title 17 Amendments