A Message from WISHA About Bioterrorism

"The tragic events of September 11 and the recent reports of anthrax cases have resulted in a heightened state of awareness in Washington and across the nation. I assure you that we have received no credible threats in Washington State.  I also assure you that we are doing everything possible to protect your health and safety."  

--Governor Gary Locke, October 16, 2001   
Taken from Gov. Locke's statement to state employees on current health and safety issues

WISHA has received inquiries about bioterrorism and the steps that should be taken in response to the risk.  The Washington State Department of Health has the lead in directing bioterrorism prevention and response efforts.  WISHA is responding by supporting the Department of Health and Centers for Disease control and Prevention's (CDC) guidelines.  We will use this site as a place to post information and related links in order to provide the most current and accurate information regarding bioterrorism.  Please refer to these links and information provided by your local health department.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)	www.bt.cdc.gov
Department of Health (DOH) (local Health Departments can be accessed from this site)	www.doh.wa.gov
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)	www.fbi.gov
Washington State Patrol	www.wsp.wa.gov
United States Postal Service	www.usps.com
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)	www.fema.gov
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)	www.osha.gov/SLTC/bioterrorism/anthrax/index.html

For more information please contact

John Furman
WISHA Policy & Technical Services
360-902-5666
furk235@lni.wa.gov