| Nature
of the Anthrax Threat |
Response
Actions |
 |
 |
 |
Physical
evidence
(such as a suspicious package containing powder) |
1. Determine if there is a logical explanation
for the "physical evidence" (e.g. suspicious package or
powder). Some examples may include:
- If you receive a suspicious package, try to identify who sent it
and call them to ask about it.
- If you find suspicious powder, try to determine if the powder came
from a logical source (e.g. powdered soap dispenser, spilled baking
soda box, construction debris, etc.).
2. If you determine that the "physical
evidence" came from a logical source and it is not suspicious, it
is unlikely that anthrax is present.
or
If you cannot find a logical explanation for the "physical
evidence:"
|
Epidemiological
or medical observations
(such as individual cases of anthrax) |
1. If one or more employees are exhibiting
symptoms of anthrax:
- Encourage them to see a health care professional to evaluate the
cause of the symptoms.
- Many of the anthrax symptoms are similar to common illnesses, such
as the flu, and can cause unnecessary distress in the workplace.
2. If no confirmed cases of anthrax are
discovered, it is unlikely that a credible threat of anthrax exposure
exists at your worksite.
or
If a confirmed case of anthrax is discovered at your worksite:
- Notify your local health department. Call 9-1-1 if you are unsure
who to contact.
- Follow the directions of the health department and help them
determine if your workplace may have been the source of the
exposure.
|
Threat
(such as a phone call or letter stating that
anthrax has been used) |
1. Call 9-1-1 and report the threat. An anthrax
threat is a criminal act, regardless if the threat is credible or not.
2. Notify your employees of the threat. Inform them to be cautious of
suspicious mail/packages and to report any potential anthrax found in
the workplace.
3. If physical evidence is discovered, initiate your Emergency
Action Plan (EAP).
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