The report also cited ongoing issues with “inaccurate reporting of delayed mail” and “high late and canceled outbound trip percentages” at those facilities. Image: Sundry Photography/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffAn inspector general audit has called attention to “persistent” safety and security problems at mail processing facilities, faulting both employees for not following safety policies and the USPS for “not consistently directing local management to enforce and monitor compliance” with those policies.
In a follow-up to reports over 2023 and 2024 on 24 facilities—six of which the IG visited—auditors found safety and security issues at 20, including all of those six. For example, it said, postal vehicle service and highway contract route drivers “did not always consistently follow the safety policies and procedures for securing vehicles and mail containers.”
“We found vehicles without the appropriate number of cargo straps to secure mail containers, trailer wheels not chocked, and trailer doors not locked. In addition, we saw trailers not being properly loaded. Securing containers properly is critical to public safety and protection of mail. When employees do not observe safe working practices and safety rules, there is an increased risk of employee accidents and injuries,” it said.
“Additionally, management’s attention to maintenance, safety, and security deficiencies can reduce the risk of injuries to employees and customers; reduce related costs, such as workers’ compensation claims, lawsuits, and OSHA penalties; and enhance the customer experience and Postal Service brand,” it said.
In response, USPS management “stated it will issue memorandums to both employees and contractors reiterating safety and security policies,” the report said.
The report also cited ongoing issues with “inaccurate reporting of delayed mail” and “high late and canceled outbound trip percentages” at those facilities.
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