FedEx pilots call for extra protection against anthrax

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Nov. 26, 2001) — Pilots at express-package giant Federal Express have asked the company to take extra precautions to protect them against the threat of anthrax.

The FedEx Pilots Association wants all aircraft filtration systems and cockpits to be tested every 24 hours for anthrax spores and cargo containers to be sealed as much as possible to minimize the air circulating around any possibly contaminated packages that could introduce pathogens into the cockpit through the air conditioning/pressurization system.

In its recommendations, the association specifically targeted U.S. Postal Service express packages and mail. It wants all USPS freight handled by FedEx sealed in thick, clear, Mylar bags.

Furthermore, it asked the company to develop policies on how to reduce the risk of anthrax exposure. It wants to create tracking mechanisms, protocols, and procedures for affected personnel, equipment, and aircraft that are exposed to actual or suspected contamination, in both domestic and international locations.

Procedures must include immediate notification, and access to immediate treatment and other medical resources, the association said.