Valley Forum—Are You Afraid of Your Mail?

Anthrax has been spotted in mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service, primarily along the East Coast. Individuals, companies and government agencies everywhere feel threatened by the situation and are implementing precautions to avoid contact. Consequently, the San Fernando Valley Business Journal asks: Are you handling mail at your company differently since the beginning of the anthrax scare? Victor Gill Director of Public Affairs and Communications Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Burbank We have taken precautions to ensure that all staff members who come in contact with incoming mail are thoroughly briefed, both as to procedures they can follow in receiving mail and resources available if questionable items are observed. Mel Wilson General Manager Mel Wilson Re/Max Centre Woodland Hills At this juncture, the only changes made is to have my staff wear latex gloves when mail is being opened. Bob Grant Account Manager Network Appliance Woodland Hills I’ve been leery at looking through my mail. The whole ordeal is overwhelming. The air exposure is our company’s main concern. From this incident, I had to constantly wash my hands when I handle my mail. John Parker President Parker Brown, Inc. Canoga Park We are more cautious with our mail. The mail without return address is not opened. I believe we’re at a low risk, but we have taken every precaution to inform our employees. Steve Benoit Senior Account Executive Universal Mail Delivery Service Van Nuys The situation didn’t really affect us. We are not using any new approach internally. With our services to clients, we’re more careful and want our clients to be assured that their mail is safe. The best approach is to be alert. We’ve taken every possible precaution, such as surgical gloves provided to our drivers when handling mail to deliver to clients. Ron Yukelson Associate Administrator/Director, Business Development Encino-Tarzana Regional Medical Center Tarzana As a hospital, we are acutely sensitive to the anthrax scare and its potential ramifications on our community in general and our hospital specifically. In terms of mail, we are taking unprecedented precautions. We have briefed all of our management staff on the precautions that are necessary to convey to their employees and requested they conduct an in-service. Nancy Walsh Senior Account Executive Oakwood Worldwide Woodland Hills Our company is proactive with this situation. All suspicious mail is forwarded to security.