[Federal Register Volume 65, Number 212 (Wednesday, November 1, 2000)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 65274-65286]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 00-27913]


 ========================================================================
 Proposed Rules
                                                 Federal Register
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
 the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
 notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
 the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
 
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 

  Federal Register / Vol. 65, No. 212 / Wednesday, November 1, 2000 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 65274]]



POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


Standards Governing the Design of Curbside Mailboxes

AGENCY: Postal Service.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The Postal Service proposes to revise USPS STD 7A, which 
governs the design of curbside mailboxes. The proposed revision was 
developed through a consensus process and was approved by a committee 
of representatives from mailbox manufacturers, mailbox accessory 
manufacturers, and the Postal Service.

DATES: The Postal Service must receive written comments on or before 
December 1, 2000.

ADDRESSES: Written comments should be mailed to Civil Practice Section, 
Law Department, U.S. Postal Service, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW., Room 6235, 
Washington DC 20260-1127. Copies of all written comments will be 
available for public inspection and copying between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 
p.m., Monday through Friday, at the address above.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Annamarie Gildea, (202) 268-3558.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: U.S. Postal Service Standard, Mailboxes, 
City and Rural Curbside, USPS STD 7A, governs the design of curbside 
mailboxes. The current standard, adopted in 1992, prescribes design 
limitations in terms that are no longer consistent with the operational 
requirements of the Postal Service.
    The Postal Service used a consensus process in developing the 
proposed revised standard. In a consensus process, representatives of 
interests that would be substantially affected by a new rule meet as an 
advisory committee and negotiate among themselves and with the agency 
to reach a consensus on a proposed new rule. As part of the consensus 
process, the agency agrees to use a recommendation by the committee as 
the basis of the proposed rule. In addition, each private member of the 
Committee agrees that, if it agrees to a recommendation by the 
Committee, it will support that recommendation and the proposed rule to 
the extent that it reflects the recommendation.
    In this instance, the Postal Service retained the services of an 
independent, neutral third party to convene a Consensus Committee and 
facilitate discussions of Committee members. Based on the Convenors' 
recommendation, the Postal Service invited Consensus Committee members 
representing interests that were expected to be substantially affected 
by the new rule. Further, Committee members were responsible for 
representing other interested individuals and organizations that were 
not present at committee meetings and keeping them informed of the 
Committee's proceedings.
    As part of the ground rules agreed to by all members of the 
Consensus Committee, the Postal Service agreed to use a recommendation 
by the Committee as the basis of the proposed rule. In addition, each 
private member of the Committee agreed that, if it agreed to a 
recommendation by the Committee, it would support that recommendation 
and the proposed rule to the extent that it reflects the 
recommendation. After the Consensus Committee held several meetings 
that were open to the public, the Committee approved and recommended 
the standard set forth below.
    Changes incorporated in the proposed new standard, which shall be 
titled USPS STD 7B include the following:
    1. Eliminated the requirement that Traditional mailboxes must be 
built in conformance with USPS drawings (formerly designated T1, T2, 
and T3). All three USPS drawings were eliminated and replaced with a 
new figure which gives manufacturers more design flexibility.
    2. Removed all requirements to comply with military and federal 
specifications and standards.
    3. Deleted flammability, solar exposure, and color intensity test 
requirements that were determined to be invalid or unnecessary.
    4. Dropped requirement that manufacturers comply with the National 
Motor Freight Classification Rule 222.
    5. Introduced a new Locked mailbox classification with two new 
figures. This design will provide customers with an option to purchase 
mailboxes that offer increased security for their mail.
    6. Incorporated quality assurance provisions.
    7. Added a figure depicting three new alternative flag designs.
    8. Included new guidelines and a figure for acceptable door handle 
and knob designs.
    9. Clarified application requirements and introduced independent 
laboratory testing.

Re-approval of Manufacturers' Curbside Mailboxes

    The re-approval process for manufacturers with mailbox designs that 
were approved before the final publication date of USPS STD 7B will be 
conducted as follows. The approval process for all other mailbox 
designs will be conducted in accordance with USPS STD 7B, part 5.
    1. The USPS will notify currently approved manufacturers within 
five business days after final publication of USPS STD 7B in the 
Federal Register when to submit their mailboxes for re-approval. All 
mailboxes must be submitted to: Attn Test Evaluation & Quality, USPS 
Engineering, 8403 Lee Hwy, Merrifield, VA 22082-8101.
    2. Manufacturers will have 90 days after receipt of this 
notification to submit a sample of each of their previously approved 
mailboxes. In addition, manufacturers shall submit their quality 
assurance manual, and each mailbox must be accompanied with a 
compliance certificate, one set of drawings, product information, and 
instructions. Mailboxes will be tested on a first-come, first-served 
basis.
    3. If a previously approved mailbox is not submitted within the 90-
day period, it will automatically lose its approval status. A 
manufacturer may receive an extension of up to 45 days, provided 
reasonable justification is demonstrated to the USPS. Manufacturers 
seeking an extension must write to: Attn Delivery & Retail Systems, 
USPS Information Platform, 8403 Lee Hwy, Merrifield, VA 22082-8101.
    4. The USPS will have up to 90 days to respond to submissions, 
during which time manufacturers can continue to sell their mailboxes.
    5. If a submitted mailbox does not pass the revised standard's 
requirements, the manufacturer may make modifications and re-submit 
their

[[Page 65275]]

mailbox one additional time. The manufacturer will have 45 days after 
the date of USPS's notice of denial of the manufacturer's first 
application to submit a second sample. Should the second sample fail 
testing, the manufacturer has up to 180 days from notification of 
failure to cease selling it. The manufacturer is also to cease 
production immediately and use the 180 days to deplete existing 
inventory.
    6. If a mailbox fails two testing attempts, manufacturers may still 
make modifications and re-submit in accordance with the new application 
requirements specified in the revised standard. However, the conditions 
identified in #5 above remain in effect.

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

    Postal Service.

PART 111--[AMENDED]

    1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. Sec. 552(a), 39 U.S.C. Secs. 101, 401, 403, 
404, 3001-3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 3626, 5001.

    2. Revise USPS STD 7A as set forth below:
1 SCOPE AND CLASSIFICATION

1.1 Scope

    This standard covers all curbside mailboxes. Curbside mailboxes are 
defined as any design made to be served by a carrier from a vehicle on 
any city, rural, or highway contract route. This standard is not 
applicable to mailboxes intended for door delivery service (see 6.1).

1.2  Classifications

    Based on their size and design, curbside mailboxes are classified 
as:

T--Traditional, Full or Limited Service (see 3.2.1 and Figure 1).
C--Contemporary, Full or Limited Service (see 3.2.2).
L--Locked, Full or Limited Service (see 3.2.3 and Figures 2 and 3).

1.3  Approved Models

1.3.1  Approved Models

    Manufacturers whose mailboxes have been approved by the United 
States Postal Service (USPS) will be listed in the Postal Operations 
Manual (POM) and published in the Postal Bulletin.

1.3.2  Interested Manufacturers

    Manufacturing standards and current information concerning the 
manufacture of curbside mailboxes may be obtained by writing to: USPS 
Information Platform, Delivery and Retail Operation Equipment, 8403 Lee 
Hwy, Merrifield, VA 22082-8101.
2  APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1  Specifications and Standards

    Except where specifically noted, the specifications set forth 
herein shall apply to all curbside mailbox designs.

2.2  Government Documents

    The following documents of the latest issue are incorporated by 
reference as part of this standard.

United States Postal Service

DMM  Domestic Mail Manual
POM  Postal Operations Manual

    Copies of the Domestic Mail Manual can be obtained from the 
Government Printing Office, Mail Stop SSOM, 732 N Capitol Street NW., 
Washington DC 20402-9375. It is available on the Internet also at 
http://pe.usps.gov.
    Copies of the Postal Operations Manual can be obtained from the 
USPS Material Distribution Center, 500 SW. Montara Pkwy, Topeka KS 
66624-9702.

2.3  Non-Government Documents

    The following documents of the latest issue are incorporated by 
reference as part of this standard.

American Standards for Testing Materials (ASTM)

ASTM G85  Standard Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing
ASTM D968  Standard Test Methods for Abrasion Resistance of Organic 
Coatings by Falling Abrasive

    Copies of these documents can be obtained from the American Society 
for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia PA 19103-
1108.

Underwriters Laboratories

UL 771  Night Depositories (Rain Test Only)

    Copies of this document can be obtained from Underwriters 
Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook IL 60062-2096.

American Society for Quality

ANSI/ASQC Q9002-1994  Quality Systems--Model for Quality Assurance in 
Production, Installation, and Servicing
ANSI/ISO/ASQC Q10013-1995  Guidelines for Developing Quality Manuals

    Copies of these documents can be obtained from the American Society 
for Quality, PO Box 3066, Milwaukee WI 53201-3066.
3  REQUIREMENTS

3.1  Quality

    Mailbox manufacturers must ensure and be able to substantiate that 
units manufactured conform to the requirements of this specification.

3.1.1  Inspection

    The Postal Service reserves the right to inspect units for 
conformance to this specification at any stage of manufacture. 
Inspection by the Postal Service does not relieve the manufacturer of 
the responsibility to provide performance that conforms to the 
requirements set forth in this specification. Prior to any visits, the 
Postal Service will provide a minimum notice of 30 business days. The 
Postal Service will suspend the approval status of any manufacturer's 
model which is found to be out of conformance with approved drawings 
(see 5.2.2).

3.1.2  System

    The manufacturer shall use a documented quality system acceptable 
to the Postal Service. As a minimum, the manufacturer's quality system 
shall include controls and record keeping in the following areas (a 
quality system in compliance with ANSI/ASQC Q9002-1994 meets this 
requirement):

3.1.2.1  Inspection and testing;
3.1.2.2  Inspection, measuring, and test equipment;
3.1.2.3  Control of nonconforming products;
3.1.2.4  Document control; and
3.1.2.5 Corrective action.

3.1.3  System Evaluation

    The Postal Service has the right to evaluate the acceptability and 
effectiveness of the manufacturer's quality system before approval and 
during tenure as an approved source.

3.1.4  Records

    All of the manufacturer's records pertaining to the approved 
product shall be kept for a minimum of three years after shipment of 
product.

3.2  General Design

    Mailboxes must meet regulations and requirements as stipulated in 
paragraph 2.2. This includes carrier door operation as stated in 3.4, 
flag operation as stated in 3.7, incoming mail openings, and the 
retrieval of outgoing mail. The opening style, design, and size are 
determined by the manufacturer; however, the carrier must be able to 
deposit the customer's mail through the slot or open door with a single 
motion of the carrier's arm. Outgoing mail of all designs must be able 
to be pulled straight out of the mailbox without interference from 
protrusions, hardware, etc. Mailboxes must be capable of passing the 
applicable testing requirements in 3.15. Mailboxes must not be made of 
any

[[Page 65276]]

transparent, toxic, or flammable material (see 3.3). The mailbox must 
protect mail from water damage which may result from wet weather 
conditions (see 3.15.3). Any and all advertising on a mailbox or its 
support is prohibited. Additional specific requirements follow.

3.2.1  Traditional Designs (Limited and Full Service)

    Mailbox designs that conform to Figure 1 and meet capacity 
requirements specified in 3.15.1 will be classified as Traditional. 
Designs incorporating a carrier signal flag (see 3.7) will be 
classified as full service mailboxes. Designs with no flag will be 
classified as limited service (see 3.12.2). As specified in 3.5, a rear 
door is permitted to enable the customer to remove mail without 
standing in the street. The use of locks, locking devices, or inserts 
is prohibited.

3.2.2  Contemporary Designs (Limited and Full Service)

    Mailbox designs that do not conform to the dome-rectangular shape 
of Traditional designs but meet capacity requirements specified in 
3.15.1 will be classified as Contemporary. Designs incorporating a 
carrier signal flag (see 3.7) will be classified as full service 
mailboxes. Designs with no flag will be classified as limited service 
(see 3.12). Although the shape and design is less restrictive, 
Contemporary mailboxes must meet the same applicable functional 
requirements. Contemporary designs can also incorporate a rear door, as 
specified in 3.5, to enable the customer to remove mail without 
standing in the street. The use of locks, locking devices, or inserts 
is prohibited.

3.2.3  Locked Designs

    Mailbox designs that provide security for customer's incoming mail 
will be classified as Locked mailboxes (see Figures 2 and 3). Although 
the shape and design is less restrictive, Locked mailboxes must meet 
the same applicable functional requirements. Designs having a slot for 
incoming mail must be at least 1.75 inches high by 10 inches wide. If a 
slot has a protective flap it must operate inward to ensure mail can be 
inserted in horizontal manner without requiring any additional effort 
of carriers (see Figure 3). The slot must be positioned on the front 
side of the mailbox facing the street. In addition, the slot must be 
clearly visible and directly accessible by mail carriers. Any designs 
that allow for outgoing mail must meet all applicable requirements of 
this standard.

3.2.3.1  Full Service

    Locked mailbox designs of this class allow for both incoming and 
outgoing mail as depicted in Figure 2. It is preferred that both 
incoming and outgoing mail compartments be located behind a single 
carrier service door as shown in Figure 2 (the term ``preferred'' in 
this document means that compliance is desired but not mandatory). 
Alternate positioning of the incoming mail compartment, such as beneath 
or side-by-side with the outgoing compartment, is permitted provided 
that no additional carrier service is introduced.

3.2.3.2  Limited Service

    Locked mailbox designs of this class allow only for incoming mail 
as shown in Figure 3.

3.2.4  Mailbox Accessories

    Decorative art and devices can be attached to the exterior of 
approved mailbox designs provided they do not interfere with mail 
delivery or present a safety hazard. Devices can also be mounted in the 
interior of approved mailboxes provided they do not cause the mailbox 
to fail the capacity test described in 3.15.1 and do not interfere with 
mail delivery or present a safety hazard. Any and all advertising on a 
mailbox or its support is prohibited. Unrestricted spring-loaded 
devices and designs are prohibited. Auxiliary flags or devices used to 
signal the customer that the mail has arrived must operate 
automatically without requiring additional carrier effort.

3.3  Materials

    Ferrous or nonferrous metal, wood (restrictions apply), plastic, or 
other materials may be used, as long as their thickness, form, 
mechanical properties, and chemical properties adequately meet the 
operational, structural, and performance requirements set forth in this 
standard. Materials used must not be toxic, flammable, or transparent.

3.3.1  Mailbox Floor

    The entire bottom area of all mailboxes where mail would rest shall 
be fabricated to prevent mail from damage due to condensation or 
moisture. Except for the internal mail compartment of locked-style 
mailboxes, all designs must not present a lip or protrusion that would 
prevent the mail from being inserted or pulled straight out of the 
mailbox. The surface of the floor cannot be made of wood material. The 
floor shall be ribbed as shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3 or dimpled, 
embossed, or otherwise fabricated provided the resulting surface area 
(touching mail) does not exceed .25 square inch (per dimple/impression) 
and is minimum of .12 inch high on centers not exceeding 1 inch. A mat 
insert having a raised surface contour may be used for the internal 
mail compartment of locked-style mailboxes only (see Figures 2 and 3).

3.3.2  Carrier Signal Flag

    Cannot be made of wood. Plastic is the preferred material.

3.3.3  Door Handle

    Cannot be made of wood. Plastic is the preferred material.

3.4  Carrier Service Door

    There shall be only one carrier service door, which must provide 
access for mail delivery and collection intended by the unit and meet 
USPS delivery operational requirements (see 2.2). The door must meet 
the applicable testing requirements specified in 3.15.2. The carrier 
service door must operate freely and solely by pulling outward and 
downward with a convenient handle or knob. The design of the door, 
including hinges and handles, must provide protection against wind, 
rain, sleet, or snow (see 3.15.3). Door latches must hold the door 
closed but allow easy opening and closing requiring no more than 5 
pounds of force. Action of the latch must be a positive mechanical one 
not relying solely on friction of the hinge parts. The door shall not 
be spring-loaded. Magnetic latches are acceptable provided adequate 
closure power is maintained during ambient conditions specified in 
3.15.6 and applicable testing described in 3.15. It is preferred that 
by either tactile or by sound (i.e., snap or click) carriers are 
alerted that the door is properly shut. The door, once opened, must 
remain in the open position until the carrier pushes it closed. The 
door must rotate a minimum of 100 degrees when opened and it is 
preferred that the maximum rotation be limited to 120 degrees or less. 
When in a fully opened and rest position, the opening angle of the door 
cannot measure more than 180 degrees. No protrusions other than the 
handle or knob, door catch, alternate flag design, decorative features, 
or markings are permitted on the carrier service door. Decorative 
features or markings must not interfere with delivery or present a 
safety hazard. Protrusions of any kind that cause a mailbox to fail the 
capacity test described in 3.15.1 are prohibited. See section 3.2.3 for 
carrier service door requirements for Locked mailbox designs.

[[Page 65277]]

3.4.1  Handle/Knob

    The handle or knob shall have adequate accessibility to permit 
quickly grasping and pulling it with one hand (with or without gloves) 
to open the door. The handle or knob shall be located within the top 
third of the door. Various acceptable handle and knob designs with 
required dimensions are depicted in Figure 5. Other designs may be 
acceptable, provided they allow enough finger clearance and surface 
area for carriers to grasp.

3.5  Rear Doors

    Mailboxes may have a rear door, provided that it does not interfere 
with the normal delivery and collection operation provided by the 
carrier or require the carrier to perform any unusual operations. The 
rear door must not be susceptible to being forced open as a result of 
large mail items such as newspapers and parcels being inserted through 
the carrier door. The rear door must meet the applicable testing 
requirements specified in 3.15.

3.6  Locks

    Locked mailbox designs shall have an effective means to ensure that 
incoming mail is accessible only by the customer. The use of locks on 
Contemporary and Traditional mailbox designs is prohibited. 
Manufacturers must include the following statement in their 
instructions to customers: ``IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT IT IS NOT THE 
RESPONSIBILITY OF MAIL CARRIERS TO OPEN MAILBOXES THAT ARE LOCKED, 
ACCEPT KEYS FOR THIS PURPOSE, OR LOCK MAILBOXES AFTER DELIVERY OF THE 
MAIL.''

3.7  Carrier Signal Flag

    Traditional, Contemporary, and Locked mailbox designs classified as 
Full Service shall have a carrier signal flag. The flag design must be 
one of the approved concepts depicted in Figures 1, 2, and 4. As shown 
in each figure, the flag must be mounted on the right side when facing 
the mailbox from the front. The flag must not require a lift or more 
than 2 pounds of force to retract. Additionally, when actuated 
(signaling outgoing mail) the flag must remain in position until 
retracted by the carrier. The color of the flag must be in accordance 
with requirements described in 3.10. The operating mechanism of the 
flag must not require lubrication and must continue to operate properly 
and positively (without binding or excessive free play) after being 
subjected to testing described in 3.15. Optionally, the flag may 
incorporate a self-lowering feature that causes it to automatically 
retract when the carrier service door is opened, provided no additional 
effort is required of the carrier. The self-lowering feature cannot 
present protrusions or attachments and must not interfere with delivery 
operations in any manner or present hazardous features as specified in 
3.2.

3.8  Marking

    The mailbox must bear two inscriptions on the carrier service door: 
``U.S. MAIL'' in a minimum of .50-inch-high letters and ``Approved By 
The Postmaster General'' in a minimum of .18-inch-high letters. These 
inscriptions may be positioned beneath the incoming mail slot for 
Limited Service Locked mailboxes as shown in Figure 3. Markings must be 
permanent and may be accomplished by applying a decal, embossing on 
sheet metal, raised lettering on plastic, engraving on wood, or other 
methods that are suitable for that particular unit. The manufacturer's 
name, address, date of manufacture (month and year), and model number 
or nomenclature must be legible and permanently marked or affixed on a 
panel (rear, backside of door, bottom, or side interior near the 
carrier service door) of the mailbox that is readily accessible and not 
obscured.

3.8.1  Modified Mailbox Marking

    Mailboxes that use previously approved units in their design must 
include marking stating the new manufacturer's name, address, date of 
manufacture, and model nomenclature in a permanent fashion and location 
as described above. Additionally, the ``U.S. MAIL'' and ``Approved By 
The Postmaster General'' marking shall be reapplied if it is obscured 
or obliterated by the new design.

3.9  Coatings and Finishes

    Choice of coatings and finishes is optional, provided all 
requirements of this standard are met. All coatings and finishes must 
be free from flaking, peeling, cracking, crazing, blushing, and powdery 
surfaces. Coatings and finishes must be compatible with the mailbox 
materials. Accept for small decorative accents, mirrorlike coatings or 
finishes are prohibited. The coating or finish must meet the applicable 
testing requirements described in 3.15.5.

3.10  Color

    The color of the mailbox and flag must be in accordance with the 
following requirements. The mailbox may be any color. The carrier 
signal flag can be any color except any shade of green, brown, white, 
yellow, or blue. The preferred flag color is fluorescent orange. Also, 
the flag color must present a clear contrast with the predominant color 
of the mailbox.

3.11  Mounting

    The mailbox shall be provided with a means for convenient and 
locked mounting that meets all applicable requirements of the Postal 
Operations Manual. The manufacturer may offer various types of mounting 
accessories such as a bracket, post, or stand. Although the USPS does 
not regulate the design of mounting accessories, it is pointed out that 
no part may project beyond the front of the mounted mailbox. Mounting 
accessories must not interfere with delivery operations as described in 
3.2 or present hazardous features as described in 3.14. See section 6 
for additional important information.

3.12  Instructions and Product Information

3.12.1  Assembly and Installation

    A complete set of instructions for assembling and mounting the 
mailbox shall be furnished with each unit. The instructions must 
include the following conspicuous message: ``CUSTOMERS ARE REQUIRED TO 
CONTACT THE LOCAL POST OFFICE BEFORE INSTALLING THE MAILBOX TO ENSURE 
ITS CORRECT PLACEMENT AND HEIGHT AT THE STREET. GENERALLY, MAILBOXES 
ARE INSTALLED AT A HEIGHT OF 41-45 INCHES FROM THE ROAD SURFACE TO 
INSIDE FLOOR OF THE MAILBOX OR POINT OF MAIL ENTRY (LOCKED DESIGNS) AND 
ARE SET BACK 6-8 INCHES FROM FRONT FACE OF CURB OR ROAD EDGE TO THE 
MAILBOX DOOR.''

3.12.2  Limited Service Mailboxes

    The following conspicuous note shall be included with each mailbox:
``THIS IS A LIMITED SERVICE MAILBOX (WITHOUT FLAG) AND IT IS INTENDED 
ONLY FOR CUSTOMERS WHO DO NOT WANT POSTAL CARRIERS TO PICK UP THEIR 
OUTGOING MAIL. UNLESS POSTAL CARRIERS HAVE MAIL TO DELIVER, THEY WILL 
NOT STOP AT LIMITED SERVICE MAILBOXES.''

3.13  Newspaper Receptacles

    A receptacle for the delivery of newspapers may be attached to the 
post of a curbside mailbox, provided no part of the receptacle 
interferes with the delivery of mail, obstructs the view of the flag, 
or presents a hazard to the carrier or the carrier's vehicle. The 
receptacle must not extend beyond the front of the box when the door is 
closed.

[[Page 65278]]

No advertising may be displayed on the outside of the receptacle, 
except the name of the publication.

3.14  Workmanship

    The mailbox shall be properly assembled and utilize the best 
commercial practice workmanship standards in the fabrication of all 
components and assemblies. All movable parts shall fit and operate 
properly with no unintended catch or binding points. The unit must be 
free from harmful projections or other hazardous devices. The unit must 
not have any sharp edges, sharp corners, burrs, or other features (on 
any surfaces) that may be hazardous to carriers/customers, or that may 
interfere with delivery operations as described in 3.2.

3.15  Testing Requirements

    Mailboxes will be subjected to all applicable testing described 
herein (specific requirements follow). A mailbox that fails to pass any 
test will be rejected. Testing will be conducted in sequence as listed 
herein and in Table III.

3.15.1  Capacity

    Traditional and Contemporary designs must meet minimum capacity 
requirements tested by insertion and removal of a standard test gauge 
which measures 18.50" long x 5.00" wide x 6.00" high. The test gauge is 
inserted with its 6.00" dimension aligned in the vertical axis 
(perpendicular to the mailbox floor). The gauge must be capable of easy 
insertion and removal and, while inserted, allow for the door(s) to be 
completely closed without interference. The capacity of Locked designs, 
which have slots, chutes, or similar features, will be tested and 
approved based upon whether standard USPS mail sizes (see Table I) can 
be easily inserted through the mail slot or opening. Retrieval of this 
mail from the locked compartment shall be equally as easy.

                Table I.--Standard Mail (Locked Designs)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Description                      Size (L x H x Thk)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Express and Priority Mail Envelopes.......  12\1/2\" x 9\1/2\" x \1/2\"
Priority Mail Box.........................  8\5/8\" x 5\3/8\" x 1\5/8\"
------------------------------------------------------------------------

3.15.2  Operational Requirements

    Carrier service doors, auxiliary doors, door catches/mechanisms, 
carrier signal flags, and applicable accessory devices must be capable 
of operating 7,500 normal operating cycles (one cycle=open/close) at 
room temperature, continuously and correctly, without any failures such 
as breakage of parts. Testing may be performed either manually or by 
means of an automated, mechanically driven test fixture which 
essentially mimics a manual operation. This test is applicable to all 
mailbox designs.

3.15.3  Water Tightness

    A rain test in accordance with UL 771, section 47.7, shall be 
performed to determine a mailbox's ability to protect mail from water. 
The rain test shall be operated for a period of 15 minutes for each 
side. At the conclusion of the test, the outside of the unit is wiped 
dry and all doors are opened. The inside of the compartment must 
contain no water other than that produced by high moisture 
condensation. This test is applicable to all mailbox designs.

3.15.4  Salt Spray Resistance

    A salt spray test shall be conducted in accordance with method A5 
of ASTM G85, Standard Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing. 
The salt test shall be operated for 25 continuous cycles with each 
cycle consisting of one hour of fog and one hour of dry-off. The 
mailbox shall be tested in a finished condition, including all 
protective coating, paint, and mounting hardware, and shall be 
thoroughly washed when submitted to remove all oil, grease, and other 
nonpermanent coatings. No part of the mailbox may show finish 
corrosion, blistering, or peeling or other destructive reaction upon 
conclusion of test. Corrosion is defined as any form of property change 
such as rust, oxidation, color changes, perforation, accelerated 
erosion, or disintegration. The buildup of salt deposits on the surface 
shall not be cause for rejection. However, any corrosion, paint 
blistering, or paint peeling is cause for rejection. This test is 
primarily applicable to ferrous metal mailbox designs. It is also valid 
for mailboxes designs made of plastic, wood, or other materials which 
use any metal hardware.

3.15.5  Abrasion Resistance

    The mailbox's coating/finish shall be tested for resistance to 
abrasion in accordance with method A of ASTM D968. The rate of sand 
flow shall be 2 liters of sand in 22 seconds, plus or minus 3 seconds. 
The mailbox will have failed the sand abrasion test if less than 15 
liters of sand penetrates its coating or if less than 75 liters of sand 
penetrates its plating. This test is applicable to metal mailbox 
designs only.

3.15.6  Temperature Stress Test

    The mailbox under test shall be placed in a cold chamber at 
-65 deg. Fahrenheit for 24 hours. The chamber shall first be stabilized 
at the test temperature. After remaining in the -65 deg. environment 
for the 24-hour period, the unit shall be quickly removed from the cold 
chamber into room ambient and tested for normal operation. The removal 
from the chamber and the testing for normal operation shall be 
accomplished in less than three minutes. The room ambient shall be 
between 65 deg. and 75 deg. Fahrenheit. Normal operation is defined as 
operation required and defined by this document. The unit under test 
shall undergo a similar temperature test, as described above, at a 
temperature of 140 deg. Fahrenheit. This test is applicable to all 
mailbox designs.

3.15.7  Structural Rigidity Requirements

    Forces of specified magnitude (see Table II) shall be slowly 
applied at specific points on the mailbox under test (see Figure 6). 
These forces shall be held for a minimum of one minute and then 
released. After their release, the deformation caused by the forces 
shall be measured. If the deformation exceeds the limit specified in 
Table II, the mailbox under test has failed to meet the structural 
rigidity requirement. The doors shall remain closed for test positions 
one through six. The application of the forces at positions one and two 
shall be applied with the mailbox in its normal upright position, 
supported by a horizontal board. The application of the forces at 
positions three, four, and five shall be applied with the mailbox lying 
on its side (flag side down). The mailbox shall be supported, on the 
underside, by a flat board that is relieved in the immediate area of 
the flag mechanism. The application of force at position six 
(Traditional style flags only) shall be applied with the mailbox lying 
on its side (flag side up). The application of force at position six 
shall be repeated at the top of the flag with the mailbox in its normal 
upright position. If visible cracks in the material have developed as a 
result of the testing, the mailbox under test has failed to meet the 
structural rigidity requirement. At the conclusion of the structural 
rigidity testing, if the mailbox under test fails to operate normally, 
as defined by this document, the mailbox under test has failed to meet 
the structural rigidity requirement. This test is applicable to all 
mailbox designs.

[[Page 65279]]



                 Table II.--Permanent Deformation Limits
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Deformation      Load
                   Position                       (inches)     (pounds)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.............................................        \1/8\          200
2.............................................        \1/8\          200
3.............................................        \1/8\           50
4.............................................        \1/8\           50
5.............................................        \1/8\          100
6.............................................        \1/2\            2
------------------------------------------------------------------------

3.15.8  Impact Test

    Refer to Figure 6 for load positions. Precondition the mailbox for 
four hours at -20 deg. Fahrenheit. The following testing shall be 
performed within three minutes of removing the mailbox from the 
temperature chamber. At both load positions three and four, with the 
mailbox lying on its side (flag side down) with the door(s) closed, 
apply an impact load equivalent to a 10-pound weight dropped from a 
height of 3 feet above the mailbox surface onto a bolster plate having 
a surface not larger than 2 inches by 2 inches. The mailbox shall be 
supported, on the underside, by a flat board that is relieved in the 
immediate area of the flag mechanism. If any noticeable perforation, 
occurrence of sharp edges, or cracking of the material, either inside 
or outside the mailbox, develops as a result of the impact, or if the 
door becomes inoperable or fails to close normally, the mailbox under 
test has failed to meet the impact resistance requirement. This test is 
applicable to all mailbox designs.
4  APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

4.1  Application Requirements

    Requests for application materials, and all other correspondence 
and inquiries, shall be directed to the address in 1.3.2. The 
application process is described below.

4.1.1  Preliminary Review

    Manufacturers must first satisfy requirements of a preliminary 
review prior to submitting any sample mailboxes or accessories. The 
preliminary review consists of a review of the manufacturer's 
conceptual design drawings. Computer-generated drawings are preferred, 
but hand-drawn sketches are acceptable provided they clearly depict the 
overall shape and interior size of the proposed mailbox design. 
Drawings must also include details on design of applicable features 
such as the carrier service door, latch, handle, flag, floor, and slot. 
In addition to drawings, proposed accessories shall show or describe 
intended function. If drawings show that the proposed mailbox design 
appears to comply with the requirements of this standard, manufacturers 
will be notified in writing and may then continue with the application 
requirements described in 4.1.2. Do not submit any sample mailboxes to 
the USPS prior to complying with the requirements of 4.1.2. 
Notification that a manufacturer's drawings satisfy the requirements of 
the preliminary review does not constitute USPS approval of a design 
and shall not be relied upon as an assurance that a design will be 
approved.

4.1.2  Testing

    Upon receiving written notification from the USPS that their design 
satisfies requirements of the preliminary review, manufacturers shall 
at their own expense submit one sample of their mailbox or accessory to 
an independent laboratory for testing along with a copy of the 
preliminary review letter from the USPS. See Appendix A for a list of 
USPS-approved independent test labs. Manufacturers with more than one 
unique model shall have each one tested independently. Models which are 
generally of the same size, shape, and material of previously approved 
designs but have only different decorative features (i.e., color scheme 
and surface contours) are not considered unique and do not require any 
testing. Manufacturers seeking approval of models that are not unique 
shall submit documentation for each model in accordance with section 
4.1.3.2. This documentation will be reviewed and the proposed model 
will be approved or disapproved (see section 5). The USPS may request 
that the manufacturer submit one sample of the proposed model.

4.1.3  Final Review

    Manufacturers shall submit one sample mailbox or accessory to the 
USPS for final review and approval. The sample shall be accompanied by 
a certificate of compliance and a copy of the laboratory test results 
(see 4.1.3.3). Mailboxes submitted to the USPS (see 1.3.2) for final 
evaluation must be identical in every way with the mailboxes to be 
marketed and must be marked as specified in 3.8. Manufacturers may be 
subject to a verification of their quality system prior to approval. 
This may consist of a review of the manufacturer's quality manual (see 
4.1.3.4) and an on-site quality system evaluation (see 3.1).

4.1.3.1  Instructions

    Submit a copy of the instructions conforming to 3.12 including the 
statement concerning locks in 3.6.

4.1.3.2  Documentation

    The unit submitted for approval shall be accompanied by one 
complete set of manufacturing drawings consisting of black-on-white 
prints (blueprints or sepia are unacceptable). The drawings shall be 
dated and signed by a manufacturer's representative(s). The drawings 
must completely document and represent the design of the unit tested. 
The drawings must include sufficient details to allow the USPS to 
inspect all materials, construction methods, processes, coatings, 
treatments, finishes (including paint types and colors), control 
specifications, parts, and assemblies used in the construction of the 
unit. Additionally, the drawings must fully describe any purchased 
materials, components, and hardware, including their respective 
finishes. The USPS may request individual piece parts to verify 
drawings.

4.1.3.3  Certification of Compliance and Test Results

    Manufacturers shall furnish a written certificate of compliance 
indicating that their design fully complies with the requirements of 
this specification. In addition, the manufacturer shall submit the 
lab's original report which clearly shows results of each test 
conducted (see Table III). The manufacturer bears all responsibility 
for their unit(s) meeting these requirements and the USPS reserves the 
right to retest any and all units submitted, including those which are 
available to the general public.

                                                              Table III.--Test Requirements
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Test                                       Requirement                        Reference                Applicable document
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity...............................  Insertion of test gauge...........................          3.15.1
Operational Requirements...............  7,500 cycles......................................          3.15.2
Water Tightness........................  No appreciable moisture...........................          3.15.3  UL 771, Section 47.7.
Salt Spray Resistance..................  25 cycles.........................................          3.15.4  ASTM G85.
Abrasion Resistance....................  75 liters.........................................          3.15.5  ASTM D968.

[[Page 65280]]

 
Temperature Stress Test................  Shall function between -65  deg.F and 140  deg.F..          3.15.6
Structural Rigidity Requirements.......  Refer to Table I for loads and points, maximum \1/          3.15.7
                                          8\ inch permanent deformation.
Impact Test............................  10 lbs. dropped from 3 feet.......................          3.15.8
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4.1.3.4  Quality Assurance Manual

    The manufacturer shall submit its quality policy manual. The manual 
should be structured in accordance with ISO 10013 and with the 
requirements of ISO 9002.
5  APPROVAL OR DISAPPROVAL

5.1  Disapproval

    Written notification, including reasons for disapproval, will be 
sent to the manufacturer within 30 days of completion of the final 
review of all submitted units. All correspondence and inquiries shall 
be directed to the address listed in 1.3.2.

5.1.1  Disapproved Mailboxes

    Mailboxes disapproved will be disposed of in 30 calendar days from 
the date of the written notification of disapproval, or returned to the 
manufacturer if requested, provided the manufacturer pays shipping 
costs.

5.2  Approval

    One set of manufacturing drawings with written notification of 
approval will be returned to the manufacturer. The drawings will be 
stamped and identified as representing each unit.

5.2.1  Approved Mailboxes

    Mailboxes that are approved will be retained by the USPS.

5.2.2  Production Units

    Manufacturer's production units shall be constructed in accordance 
with the identified (stamped) drawings and provisions of this 
specification and be of the same materials, construction, coating, 
workmanship, finish, etc. as the approved units. Within 60 days upon 
sale of their approved mailbox to the public, manufacturers shall 
submit one production unit to the USPS office listed in 1.3.2. The USPS 
reserves the right at any time to examine and retest units obtained 
either in the general marketplace or from the manufacturer. If the USPS 
determines that a particular mailbox model is not in compliance with 
this standard, USPS may suspend or rescind approval as follows.
5.2.2.1  The USPS will provide written notice to the manufacturer that 
a particular mailbox model is not in compliance with this standard. 
This notice will state specific reason(s) why the product is no longer 
considered in compliance. It will be sent registered mail with the 
manufacturer's receipt of notice documented.
5.2.2.2  The manufacturer must then respond to the USPS within 30 days 
with a reasonable and timely corrective plan of action to bring the 
mailbox model back into compliance. During the interim, production of 
the mailbox shall cease and any existing inventory shall be destroyed.
5.2.2.3  The USPS will then respond within 14 days whether the 
submitted corrective plan of action is accepted or rejected, with 
reason noted.
5.2.2.4  The USPS will proceed to monitor the manufacturer's compliance 
with their corrective plan of action.
5.2.2.5  The corrected mailbox model is sent to the USPS for re-
approval within the corrective plan of action's time frame.
5.2.2.6  The USPS will respond within 30 days whether the corrected 
model is again in compliance with this standard. If the model is found 
to be out of compliance, the USPS will rescind its approval. 
Consequently, the manufacturer will have to follow application 
requirements outlined in section 4 to regain approval of the model.

5.2.3  Revisions, Product or Drawings

    Changes which affect the form, fit, or function (i.e., dimensions, 
material, finish) of approved products or drawings shall not be made 
without written approval from the USPS. Any proposed changes shall be 
submitted with the affected documentation, reflecting the changes 
(including a notation in the revision area) and a written explanation 
of the changes. One unit, incorporating the changes, may be required to 
be resubmitted for testing and evaluation for approval.

5.2.3.1  Revisions, Manufacturer Structure

    If any substantive part of the approved manufacturer's structure 
changes from what existed when the manufacturer became approved, the 
manufacturer shall notify the USPS and may be subject to a re-
evaluation of product or quality system. Examples of substantive 
structural changes are: change in executive or quality management, 
major change in quality policy or procedures, relocation of 
manufacturing facilities, major equipment or manufacturing process 
change (e.g., outsourcing versus in-plant fabrication), etc. 
Notification of such changes will be to the address in 1.3.2.

5.2.4  Product Brochure

    Within 60 days upon sale to public, manufacturers shall submit one 
copy of their product(s) brochure(s) representing approved mailbox 
design(s) to the address listed in 1.3.2, and to: USPS, Delivery Policy 
and Programs, 475 L'Enfant Plaza, Rm. 7142, Washington, DC 20260-0004.
6  Notes
    6.1  Mailboxes intended to be used in delivery to customer's doors 
are not currently ``approved'' by the United States Postal Service as 
referenced in this standard. However, it is recommended that these 
boxes conform to the intentions of this specification, particularly the 
safety of the carrier and customer and the protection of the mail. The 
local postmaster shall be contacted prior to installation and use of 
any door mailbox.
    6.2  The United States Postal Service does not approve mailbox 
posts or regulate mounting of mailboxes other than the requirements 
specified in sections 3.11 and 3.12. Please note that mailbox posts are 
often subject to local restrictions, state laws, and federal highway 
regulations. Further information may be obtained from:

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, 444 
N Capitol St NW, Ste 249, Washington, DC 20001-1512
Federal Highway Administration Office of Highway Safety HHS 10, 400 7th 
St SW, Washington, DC 20590-0003
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BILLING CODE 7710-12-C

Appendix A--USPS-Approved Independent Test Laboratories

    (1) ACTS Test Labs, 100 Northpointe Parkway, Buffalo, NY 14228-
1884, Contact: Dennis Maclaughlin, Phone: 716-505-3547 Fax: 716-505-
3301.
    (2) The Coatings Lab, 10175 Harwin Drive, Suite 110, Houston, TX 
77036, Contact: Tom Schwerdt, Phone: 713-981-9368 Fax: 713-776-9634.
    (3) Ithaca Materials Research and Testing, Inc. (IMR), Lansing 
Business and Technology Park, 31 Woodsedge Drive, Lansing, NY 14882, 
Contact: Jeff Zerilli, Vice President, Phone: 607-533-7000.
    (4) Independent Test Laboratories, Inc., 1127B Baker Street, 
Costa Mesa, CA 92626, Contact: Robet Bouvier, Phone: 800-962-Test 
Fax: 714-641-3836.
    (5) Environ Labs L.L.C., 9725 Girard Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 
55431, Contact: Chuck Mapes, Phone: 800-826-3710 Fax: 612-888-6345.
    (6) Midwest Testing Laboratories, Inc., 1072 Wheaton, Troy, MI 
48083, Contact: Cherie Ulatowski, Phone: 248-689-9262 Fax: 248-689-
7637.

    Note: Additional test laboratories may be added provided they 
satisfy USPS certification criteria. Interested laboratories should 
contact: USPS Engineering, Test Evaluation and Quality, 8403 Lee 
Hwy, Merrifield, VA 22082-8101.


Stanley F. Mires,
Chief Counsel, Legislative.

[FR Doc. 00-27913 Filed 10-31-00; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P