How to deal with a powder package discovered while out on delivery
Before proceeding or calling 999, you must conduct a risk assessment and call Central Postal Control (CPC) on 0345 266 1060 to agree how to proceed.
If CPC agree that the item is suspicious, you should follow the instructions below to ensure the safety of your people.
WARNING!
If a delivery/collection person has returned to Royal Mail Group premises, isolate them and record the names of any people he/she has been in contact with.
If the item has been delivered
Do not accept the item back
Advise the postman or woman that they should not accept the item back under any circumstances. If the customer is worried they should call the Police. The postman or woman should stay at the scene if the Police request.
No further action is required.
If the item has not been delivered
Find out more about the item
- Note details such as the postmark, addressee and sender details. The sender or the addressee may be able to verify the contents of the package.
- Has the powder leaked from a single item?
- Is there a large quantity of powder? Police do not generally consider a large amount of powder as suspicious. This is usually the result of the Fire Brigade using powder extinguishers to put out pillar box fires.
Call CPC to decide how to proceed
Brief Central Postal Control (CPC) on the situation and get advice on how to proceed.
Call and support the police
If CPC agree that the item may pose a risk
Call and support the police
If CPC do not agree the item poses a risk
Close the incident
If in doubt at any stage always call Central Postal Control (CPC)
Central Postal Control deals with issues on a regular basis and will be able to talk you through how to deal with any situation.