Scanlon Advocates for PPE for USPS Workers, Letter Carriers
EAST LANSDOWNE, PA,
April 6, 2020
Today, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon led a letter to United States Postal Service Postmaster General Megan J. Brennan inquiring about access and distribution of safety supplies to postal workers and letter carriers during COVID-19.
Recent media reports have noted shortages of hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and cleaners, masks and gloves at postal facilities across the country.
“I have confirmed through personal observation, conversations with stakeholders and social media posts that such shortages exist at many USPS facilities in southeastern Pennsylvania,” Congresswoman Scanlon wrote.
“Throughout the duration of our nation’s response to this pandemic, USPS employees have remained steadfast in their commitment to their work,” she continued. “Knowing that the mail will be delivered reliably day in and day out is vital to the health and wellbeing of millions of Americans, and it is critical that we protect those affording us these services with the equipment required to work safely.”
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has standard guidelines for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), generally requiring gloves, eye and face protection, and when necessary, respiratory protection. While OSHA has not yet released PPE-related guidance specific to COVID-19, the OSHA regulation should reasonably be applied to occupational hazards faced by USPS employees during this pandemic.
“We must ensure that postal workers have the PPE necessary to safely perform their jobs and protect the public,” Congresswoman Scanlon said.
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