Mail Handling

Delivered items, which include letters, parcels, packages and anything delivered by post or courier, have been a commonly used terrorist tactic. A properly conducted risk assessment should give you a good idea of the likely threat to your organisation and indicate precautions you need to take.

Devices concealed within delivered items may be explosive or incendiary (the two most likely kinds), or chemical, biological or radiological. Anyone receiving a suspicious delivery is unlikely to know which type it is, so procedures should cater for every eventuality. A delivered item will probably have received some fairly rough handling in the post and so is unlikely to detonate through being moved, but any attempt at opening it, however slight, may set it off or release the contents. Unless delivered by a courier, it is unlikely to contain a timing device. Delivered items come in a variety of shapes and sizes; a well made device will look innocuous but there may be telltale signs.

NaCTSO guidance documents contain further advice on Mail Handling or delivered items. Alternatively, contact your local CTSA who will be able to provide appropriate advice.

For more information on specification and standards please read PAS97:2009 A Specification For Mail Screening & Security.