NCJ Number
204776
Date Published
March 2003
Length
60 pages
Annotation
This guide offers protocols and suggestions regarding the response to suspicious packages or envelopes detected in the workplace in Canada.
Abstract
The guidance presented should be customized to specific office and building requirements and local first responders should be consulted regarding local requirements. The guide begins with a section of worksheets for planners to complete; it contains worksheets listing suspicious package response personnel, an emergency phone list, and building data. Part 1 discusses how to plan for the arrival of a suspicious package. The main types of suspicious packages are described and include explosive devices, chemical agents, radiological agents, and biological agents. A threat and risk assessment (TRA) should be conducted at each workplace prior to the establishment of a Building Suspicious Package Response Plan. Security threat considerations include potential threats to the physical security of the building and the communication capability throughout the building. Minimizing risk through the design of internal building mail systems is outlined. Part 2 focuses on the responsibilities of those involved with the response to suspicious packages in the workplace, including the Responsible Building Authority (RBA), the Building Suspicious Package Response Team and Coordinator, and Workplace Occupational Health and Safety Committee members. For example, when a suspicious package is received, members of the RBA are responsible for notifying the Workplace Occupational Health and Safety Committee, whose members are entitled to participate in all inquires affecting the health and safety of employees. Equipment considerations are also included in part 2, such as hazardous materials spill kits, emergency response kits, communications capabilities, and personal protection equipment. Part 3 outlines the proper response to a suspicious package incident, beginning with the indicators that signal a package may pose a threat. These indicators include an unexpected package delivery, an unrecognizable or no return address, and packages with excessive wrapping. A checklist of what to do upon finding a suspicious package is presented and includes isolating the package and evacuating the immediate area. Finally, the security response protocol is outlined. The duties of the Building Suspicious Package Response Team Coordinator, Deputy, and members are enumerated, and responsibilities pertaining to the investigation and report, the building decontamination process, and business continuity planning are discussed. Glossary, appendix