Threats
Security Hazards by Mail

Consult with premises Facilities Management when locating an area for mail opening to ensure suitability (isolation of HVAC, proximity of washing facilities, etc.).

If you believe that there are local circumstances that mean your site is at higher risk of receiving a bomb, incendiary, chemical, biological or other hazardous content in the mail, or by other means, contact Head of Corporate Security for advice.

The postal and courier delivered bomb, or other hazardous device, takes many forms; parcels, jiffy bag, envelopes etc. They are designed to harm the recipient, cause panic, and disrupt the business. The initial effect is local, but a parcel bomb could be large enough to cause similar damage as a device contained in a holdall. The threat of a chemical or biological device can lead to widespread disruption during the investigation and decontamination process, and cause alarm amongst colleagues.

The BBC receives large amounts of unsolicited mail from sources world-wide, including cassettes of audio and video, scripts and similar items, some (especially poorly packaged) may cause concern. These items will already have undergone some fairly rough handling by the Post Office or courier. Handling delivered mail is therefore not generally dangerous in itself, although there is a risk of cross-contamination when infected with chemical or biological agents.

Staff that handle incoming mail should be trained in spotting suspicious items and there is a check list for postal items listed below. Where the risk and scale is great enough, x-ray devices will be in operation, or other precautions as indicated by the level of threat.

Stop opening it immediately if you suspect hazardous content, and seek advice.

Sorting staff must be informed so that a watch and intercept can be arranged for repeat items.

If an explosive or incendiary device is detected it should be left alone (not put into water or covered). It is not usually necessary to evacuate a complete building, but clear and secure the immediate area, call the Duty Facilities Manager in London, or the police, and take their advice.

Everyone who receives unsolicited items should take care when opening mail. 

 

Take special care if the envelope or package appears to contain powder or other unusual contents (which might be revealed by feeling the envelope or package before opening or indicated by unusual containers and labelling).

 

Never blow into an envelope or shake out the contents.

 

Occasionally other dangerous content likely to cause harm may be received.  This could take the form of razor blades or other sharp content, or unpleasant material such as noxious substances.  Some of this content may show up during routine scanning if this is carried out locally

 

If a chemical or biological hazard is suspected, it should be carefully put down and not handled further. After reporting the incident, mail handlers should quickly move to an adjacent area, which is clear of others, to await medical attention. In the process, windows and doors must be closed, and air conditioning plant shut down.