Recently the Center for Disease Control (CDC) distributed specific information for procedures that will help protect employees in the mail industry. At a MAILCOM 2007 seminar, the CDC introduced a video that explores the threat of anthrax in the mail center and gives guidance on methods to minimize the risk of contracting an infection.

In prior articles, we discussed ways to neutralize and kill anthrax. We have also discussed the practicality and feasibility for implementing such systems. For the majority of our colleagues, we recommend the low cost methods suggested by the CDC to protect your employees and facility. The use of HEPA filtration is one of the most recommended methods for keeping the mail center clean and secure. HEPA filters can be used for a variety of applications such as cleaning work surfaces, processing equipment and securing HVAC ducts.

A client in NYC recently attached the hose of a 55 gallon HEPA filter to several Omation and Envopak envelope openers. The unit collects the chafe produced by the opener and draws potential airborne particles down and away from the operator. Another client used a smaller, portable unit to clean all the workstations and floor after processing mail.


Another application for HEPA filtration is found with safety cabinets. These units provide a completely secure environment for opening suspect mail. The filters (1-2 units) create a vacuum shield and extract any loose particles. Like all such filters, the collection medium is removed and disposed in a secure environment, never cleaned and reused.

HEPA filters will collect 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and
larger and should be DOP-tested. Most filters should also meet OSHA, EPA, and NADCA standards for cleaning the air of toxic and nuisance dust.

For a list of the other CDC recommendations or to order their free video, click here. If you need further information on our line of HEPA filtration, click here or give us a call at (201)329-7200.