A Postal Service Biohazard Detection System (BDS) began operation Aug. 13, at the Merrifield Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC). The system is designed to alert local operations managers as well as local responders if there is a positive detection of anthrax.
Prior to the installation, postal workers were alerted to the machine's capabilities and practiced drills in which the BDS detected anthrax. The drills involved the participation of police, HAZMAT teams, and other agencies.
"We are anxious to have it," said Scott Raymond, manager of distribution operation. "I think it is great for everyone, relatively speaking, life will never be the same anymore after Sept.11."
The Merrified Post Office serves as the processing and distribution center for all Northern Virginia, processing 9 million pieces of mail each day. From Merrifield, the mail is then distributed to each of the local post offices.
"[BDS] is safe here for our employees," Raymond said. "And it's safe for the customers at home."
The installation of the BDS in Merrifield is not based on any threat or reports that this community might become a target for bioterrorism. Rather, the installation continues the Postal Service efforts to maintain the safety of the mail. The new system will be installed in all Washington, D.C. regional mail processing facilities by this fall.
"The postal service is making every effort possible to protect the public," Raymond said.