A system and methods of the present invention advantageously provide efficient mail processing and handling that, as compared to existing procedures, enhances detection of biological, germ, chemical, or other harmful agents within the mail being processed or handled. A system and methods additionally provide a higher level of quality and consistency for processing and handling mail so that concerns over contamination of postal workers and potential mail recipients are reduced. A system and methods further provide enhanced detection of contaminated mail contents, mail, mail equipment, mail containers, and mail personnel due to exposure or contact with harmful agents associated with mail. The system and methods preferably includes the use of at least one harmful agent sensor associated with mail processing equipment.
RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/134,941, file Apr. 30, 2002, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/999,462, filed Oct. 31, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,765,490 issued on Jul. 20, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/336,418 titled "System And Methods For Detecting Harmful Agents Within Contents Of Mail" filed on Oct. 23, 2001.
