Mail Handlers and postal workers from around the country continue to courageously perform essential federal service under the extraordinary circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic.When I last reported to you regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) on April 28, 2020, there were1,234 postal workers who were confirmed to be COVID-19 positive and 847 employees presumed to be positive for a total of 2,081 infected employees. The latest numbers (as of May 6, 2020) show 1,100 postal workers who have tested positive and 624 employees who have been presumed to be positive for a total of 1,724 infected employees. The number of Mail Handlers who tested positive is 199. Unfortunately, 54 postal workers have died as a result of COVID-19 including 4 Mail Handlers. The numbers certainly seem to be “flattening.” More and more postal employees are returning to work as the availability rates in many postal installations continue to rise.

The Postal Service has modified its policy on face coverings and now requires the wearing of face coverings or masks in all areas or operations where social distancing (six feet from others) cannot be maintained. This would include all bullpens, platforms and many other mail processing operations. This is mandatory and not optional. Please keep in mind that the wearing of masks or face coverings is in addition to and not instead of social distancing. These requirements apply in all postal facilities to all employees, postal or otherwise. This would include all HCR drivers and contractors.

The Unions have been assured that a sufficient supply of masks and cloth face coverings is available in all postal facilities. The Postal Service has recently purchased 1.4 million reusable cloth face coverings. Employees may also use personal face coverings which employees might prefer to use place. The details such as the exact temperature threshold, procedures when an employee exceeds that threshold, and return to work protocols are still being finalized. Discussions are also taking place about which installations will implement “temperature taking” procedures. The Postal Service has informed the NPMHU and the other postal unions that they will soon be testing the temperature taking equipment that they plan to use in the following facilities:

1. Merrifield P & DC

2. Oklahoma City P & DC

3. Merrifield Carrier Annex

4. Fairfax, VA

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