Tuesday • July22

Smart Business Moment

FOIA: Communication

It’s Good to Talk

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2025ET2-225foia:communication

FOIA: Communication

It’s Good to Talk

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) contributes to an informed citizenry by providing the public with a way to access official information that sheds light on government activity. Communicating with the individual who requests information is essential to make sure the Postal Service fully complies with its legal obligations.
If you’re assigned a FOIA request to respond to, and you’re unsure of what the person is asking for, contact him or her and clarify the request. Also, if you can’t process the request within the applicable time period, contact the person by phone about the delay and followup with an email confirming the discussion.

Maintaining good communication and keeping individuals who make FOIA requests informed about their requests promotes good relationships between the Postal Service and customers, and reduces the likelihood that the customer will seek compliance through an administrative appeal or litigation.

And that’s smart business.

Alternate business moment

Discounts and Similar Benefits

Don't Take it Personally

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Discounts and Similar Benefits

Don’t Take it Personally

Postal Service employees may accept reduced membership or other fees offered to all federal government employees if the only restriction relates to professional qualifications.

Accepting a discount offered to all federal government employees rather than only to you as a postal employee maintains the Postal Service’s reputation that our employees can’t be bribed to obtain a business advantage.

And that’s smart business.
Contact the Ethics Office (ethics.help@usps.gov) for guidance on gifts.

Smart Safety Moment

Transport equipment

It’s contained.

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2025ssm-transportequipment

Transport equipment

It’s contained.

Postal employees use different types of transport equipment. Be sure to check all latches before loading or moving a container. Push containers from the swivel wheel end. Beware of obstacles and co-workers in your path. When loading or unloading a container, set the brake. Secure all containers you load onto vehicles with shoring bars or tow pins to prevent the load from shifting and rolling free during transport.

Following these procedures ensures the safe, secure and timely transport of mail.

And that’s smart safety!

For additional information or guidance, contact your safety office.

Alternate safety moment

Slips and trips

Get a grip.

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2025ssm-slipsandtrips

Slips and trips

Get a grip.

Take steps to prevent slips, trips and falls. Practice good housekeeping. Reduce wet or slippery surfaces. Avoid creating obstacles in aisles and walkways. Create and maintain proper lighting. Wear proper shoes. Be aware of your surroundings.

Working to prevent slips, trips and falls will help prevent injuries, lost time from work and injury compensation costs.

And that’s smart safety!

For additional information or guidance, contact your safety office.

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