Anthrax scares have popped up across the country, but MSU employees working in campus mail rooms can rest easier knowing the university has taken measures to promote their safety and comfort.
Biohazard safety kits containing gloves, special containers and disposal instructions are available for mail rooms in every college and department through University Stores.
The kits will be delivered based on request.
“We are attempting to supply each building with a mail room with one of these kits,” said John Lewis, director of University Services. “We are also providing small containers for offices handling their own mail.”
But Lewis said this isn’t the only measure the university has taken to ease employee concerns.
“We sent out a substantial amount of information to raise awareness and help them to know what to look for,” he said.
Dr. Elizabeth Alexander, a university physican, said the university is not required to provide the kits, but the measure has become popular on college campuses across the country.
“Most universities have used these kits in the past if they feel more comfortable doing so,” she said.
A group led by Alexander is overseeing the distribution of the kits.
The group, which also consists of representatives from the Department of Police and Public Safety and the Department of Radiation, Chemical and Biological Safety, will also evaluate the program and will make further recommendations.
Kathy Lindahl, assistant vice president for Finance and Operations, is also a group member.
MSU police Lt. William Wardwell, who was instrumental in drafting instructions for people handing mail across campus, addressed concerns in a public forum at Wells Hall recently.
“Questions were raised on the need to wear masks and gloves while handling mail,” he said. “This is needed all over the country - (people who handle mail) need to be aware.”
This effort is also extended to student employees, especially those who handle the mail in the residence halls.
Wilson Hall desk receptionist Angarette Howard said she still has concerns with job safety, despite having an emergency kit nearby. But Howard, a journalism freshman, said the receptionists are given instructions on how to handle a suspicious package.
“It’s on CNN every day, you can’t not be aware of the risk,” she said. “If the post office is taking precautions, the kits are a good idea.”
The biohazard mail kits are available by contacting University Stores at (517)355-1700.
