The Laboratory's mail system is intended only to process official mail, which is mail that results from the performance of duties directly related to official Laboratory business. The Laboratory uses government funds to provide postage on outgoing mail. Using Laboratory-furnished postage for other than official business mail is a violation of Laboratory policy and the Laboratory's contractual obligations to DOE. Examples of mail that are not considered official are gifts, calendars, Christmas cards, and resumes sent to other organizations. In addition, the Laboratory's mail system may not be used for stamped personal mail. A United States Postal Service box is located for employee convenience in the cafeteria parking lot.
Similarly, the mail system may not be used for incoming personal mail (e.g., personal correspondence, bank and credit statements, popular magazines, clothing catalogs, gift packages). Incoming mail of a personal nature may be refused or returned to sender at the discretion of the Mail Services Supervisor.
The Laboratory will fund all mailings up to 200 pieces. Mailings in excess of 200 pieces will require a valid project number. All personnel are encouraged to plan for and choose the more cost-effective "bulk" mailing rate, which, on an average, provides a four- to six-day delivery time and a cost savings of up to 55% over normal third-class mail. Information regarding these rates and/or other Mail Services procedures should be directed to the Mail Services Manager at extension 5353.
Laboratory mail is checked to ensure that the proper postage charges are paid. If it is uncertain which mail classification should be used or there is reasonable cause to believe that the mail is not directly related to official Laboratory business and a return address is present on the material, the sender will be contacted to ascertain its status. If it is uncertain which mail classification should be used or there is reasonable cause to believe that the mail is not directly related to official Laboratory business and a return address is not present on the material, the mail will be opened to ascertain its status.