[Federal Register Volume 69, Number 171 (Friday, September 3, 2004)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53808-53834]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 04-19781]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


Standards Governing the Design of Wall-Mounted Centralized Mail 
Receptacles

AGENCY: Postal Service.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This final rule replaces United States Postal 
Service[reg] (USPS[reg]) Standard 4B, 
Receptacles, Apartment House, Mail, which governs the design of wall-
mounted centralized mail receptacles whether utilized in commercial, 
residential, mixed

[[Page 53809]]

residential or other types of structures. The new standard was 
developed through a consensus process and was agreed to by a committee 
of representatives from mailbox manufacturers; mailbox distributors; 
mailbox installers and servicers; Postal Service customers; multi-unit 
residential and commercial property builders, owners, and managers; and 
the Postal Service\TM\. In addition, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM\TM\) 
standards provide manufacturers and customers with notice of the 
specifications.

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 4, 2004.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen A. Landi, (202) 268-2198.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: As justification for changes to Standard 4B, 
the Postal Service presented the committee with evidence of changing 
customer mailing habits and specific mail and package volume trends. 
Postal Service statistics indicate customers receive more mail and of 
varying sizes today than at the time of the last updated standard. A 
new standard would provide designed receptacles with increased 
protection for the mail, benefiting both senders and addressees; would 
improve the overall safety of the equipment in use; should reduce 
maintenance costs incurred by buildings; and would result in cleaner 
lobbies with less clutter. Finally, the newly designed receptacle would 
be easier to access and serve by carriers, thereby helping to reduce 
Postal Service costs.
    In a proposed rule published in the Federal Register on April 21, 
2004 [69 FR 21455], the Postal Service proposed to replace United 
States Postal Service Standard 4B, Receptacles, Apartment House, Mail, 
with a new standard, designated United States Postal Service Standard 
4C, Wall-Mounted Centralized Mail Receptacles. The proposal also 
included new provisions in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) to provide 
manufacturers and customers notice of the new standard. The Postal 
Service received four comments. After thorough consideration of the 
issues raised in these comments, and for the reasons discussed below, 
the Postal Service adopts the rules as proposed.
    As discussed in the proposal, a Postal Service Apartment Mailbox 
Consensus Committee, which included representatives of mailbox 
manufacturers; mailbox distributors; mailbox installers and servicers; 
Postal Service customers; multi-unit residential and commercial 
property builders, owners, and managers; and the Postal Service, 
developed the new standard through a consensus process. The members of 
the committee met six times as an advisory group and negotiated among 
themselves and with the Postal Service to reach a consensus on a new 
standard. Committee members were selected for the purpose of, and 
accepted the responsibility for, representing other interested 
individuals and organizations that were not present at committee 
meetings and to keep them informed of the committee's proceedings. As 
part of the consensus process, the Postal Service agreed to use a 
recommendation by the committee as the basis of the revised standard.
    Standard 4C represents the committee's recommendation. With one 
exception, each member of the committee signed the final agreement 
recommending adoption of this standard. That one committee member, a 
builders association, though supportive of the process and generally in 
concurrence with the new standard, declined to sign the agreement 
because a provision of the adopted standard establishes a minimum ratio 
of parcel lockers to customer compartments. This committee member 
stated its concerns in a comment submitted on the proposed rule, which 
the Postal Service will address with the other comments received.
    The current standard, adopted in 1975, prescribes design 
limitations that are no longer consistent with the operational 
requirements of the Postal Service. The revised Standard 4C is 
consistent with the day-to-day use of the mail by Postal Service 
customers, addresses the operational needs of the Postal Service, and 
provides security for mail through improved design of the equipment. 
The previous standard was entitled United States Postal Service 
Standard 4B, Receptacles, Apartment House, Mail. The revised standard 
is entitled United States Postal Standard 4C, Wall-Mounted Centralized 
Mail Receptacles. The Postal Service made the change in the title 
solely to reflect that the standard applies to receptacles in a variety 
of residential and commercial buildings, and not only ``apartments.'' 
The final rule does not result in any change in Postal Service policies 
concerning the purchase of this delivery equipment or the provision of 
delivery equipment for Postal Service customers previously in effect 
under Standard 4B.
    The new standard does the following:
    1. Creates a new form factor and increases the minimum size 
requirement to 12''w x 15''d x 3''h.
    2. Introduces 12 suggested design types. Note: The allowable design 
types are not limited to these 12, which we present only as possible 
compartment configurations.
    3. Eliminates the vertical form factor (5''w x 6''d x 15''h) 
design. The letter carrier delivers mail into the receptacle through 
the top of the receptacle down into the customer compartment.
    4. Introduces a parcel locker requirement based on a 1:10 parcel 
locker to customer compartment ratio.
    5. Strengthens security requirements for the entire receptacle.
    6. Standardizes and improves tenant compartment customer lock 
design.
    7. Adds testing requirements to verify acceptability for either 
indoor or outdoor use.
    8. Incorporates a preliminary review by Postal Service engineers 
intended to identify design discrepancies before manufacturers build 
prototypes and make tooling investments.
    9. Allows manufacturers to submit their designs to approved 
independent laboratories for initial environmental and functional 
testing. The Postal Service will perform security tests.
    10. Introduces quality management systems provisions.
    11. Enhances design flexibility for concept, ergonomics, and 
materials.
    12. Meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.
    13. Provides a progressive phase-in period to allow consumers to 
become aware of the new standard and include it in development plans.

Analysis of Comments

    The Postal Service received four comments in response to the 
proposal. Two commenters, a building material supplier and a trade 
association of builders that was a member of the consensus committee, 
submitted comments.
    The two individual commenters expressed a concern that the 
committee did not include any party representing the interests of 
individual apartment residents. However, in establishing the committee, 
the Postal Service attempted to assure representation of all interests. 
Before the selection of the committee, the Postal Service chose a 
facilitator who attempted to identify all interests and secure a 
suitable representative for each. The Postal Service also published a 
notice in the Federal Register and other publications announcing its 
intention to revise this mailbox standard, employing a negotiated 
rulemaking process, and identifying those whom it planned to invite. 
The notice encouraged any member of the public who believed he/she was 
not adequately represented to seek committee membership. The Postal 
Service received no applications by

[[Page 53810]]

representatives from the ``general public''. After the committee 
convened, the Postal Service and the committee facilitator continued to 
seek out representatives of apartment and condominium dwellers. Some 
apartment and condominium residents attended meetings and participated 
actively, but chose not to serve as committee members. Further, the 
Postal Service ensured that all committee meetings were open to the 
public, and that every individual who expressed any interest in wall-
mounted centralized mail receptacles received notice of meetings and 
copies of all relevant documents in advance.
    Moreover, even though none of the committee members directly 
represented apartment residents, members shared some of the substantive 
concerns expressed by the individual commenters. For example, building 
managers, owners, and builders shared the concern for affordable 
receptacles; and Postal Service customers shared the concern that the 
receptacles should be secure and large enough to allow mail delivery 
without damage.
    Two commenters noted issues with retrofitting; i.e. replacement of 
receptacles that met the specifications in effect at the time of their 
installation with receptacles that meet the specifications in Standard 
4C. The committee discussed retrofitting at length from the first 
meeting until near the midpoint of the meetings, at which time members 
reached consensus on how to address retrofitting concerns. These 
discussions generally contrasted the benefits of retrofitting against 
the costs of purchasing new receptacles and, in some cases, making 
structural alterations necessary to accommodate those boxes. Committee 
members also raised concerns involving building codes, waivers, 
historical buildings, and objective standards that might trigger a 
retrofitting requirement. The committee agreed that building owners and 
property managers might retrofit voluntarily; and that such voluntary 
retrofits might be encouraged. However, the new standard imposes no 
general retrofit requirement.
    One commenter raised the concern that Postal Service officials 
might allow the use of non-Postal Service-approved mail receptacles. 
However, the standard did not change the general and longstanding 
requirement that, in order to receive delivery service, the Postal 
Service must approve the delivery equipment provided by the customer.
    One commenter objected to the requirement that parcel lockers be 
provided. It questioned the Postal Service's authority to require the 
installation of these receptacles and asserted the opinion that this 
requirement would give the Postal Service an advantage over other 
parcel delivery companies that cannot require buildings to provide such 
receptacles.
    The Postal Service does not, of course, require its customers to 
provide receptacles. Rather, it establishes the type of equipment that 
customers, including multi-unit residential and commercial structures, 
must provide if they wish to receive postal delivery service. Moreover, 
the new standard does not invariably require the installation of parcel 
lockers when receptacles meeting the requirements of Standard 4C are 
installed. There are certain buildings that will be exempt from the 
requirement (i.e., buildings with relatively few units). Moreover, to 
be exempt from the requirement, buildings may provide an alternative 
procedure for delivery of parcels.
    The parcel locker requirement is consistent with the Postal 
Service's statutory responsibility to provide an efficient system for 
the delivery and collection of mail (39 U.S.C. 403(b)(1)). Although the 
receptacles are commonly called ``parcel lockers,'' the Postal Service 
will use them for more than the delivery of parcels. For example, for 
delivering mail held pursuant to a customer's request during the period 
while a customer is absent, and for periodically delivering mail to 
customers whose volume exceeds the size of their assigned receptacle. 
Accordingly, they will be used for a broader variety of matter than 
that generally delivered by parcel delivery companies and will save the 
Postal Service the time and expense needed to attempt redelivery of 
mail, and customers the time and expense of trips to a Postal Service 
facility to retrieve mail that could not be delivered.
    However, even if the parcel lockers were only used for parcels, the 
adoption of the parcel locker requirement would be fair. The commenter 
observed that the cost of the receptacles will ultimately be passed on 
by building owners to residents. Therefore, the residents would 
ultimately bear the costs of their mail delivery, which also seems 
fair. The alternative would be that the Postal Service incur the costs 
and pass them on to all customers, through postal rates, even though 
they may not be residents of multi-unit structures. Parcel delivery 
companies would also pass their costs on, through the rates they 
charge, to the specific customers that use their services rather than 
to all residents of the country.
    Two commenters raised as an issue the changes in the size of the 
customer compartment, coupled with the parcel locker requirement, and 
the resulting increase in the ``footprint'' for the equipment. The 
committee recognized that increased size would present challenges and 
create pressures on lobby size, architectural design, industry 
education, and construction costs. The committee debated these factors 
and reached compromises that address those concerns by allowing 
buildings currently under design, as well as buildings just beginning 
construction, time for approval of plans without requiring 
modifications. The committee established a timeline for mandatory 
compliance in new construction, at 2 years from the publication of the 
final rule. This timeline allows committee members and the Postal 
Service time to educate the public and members and employees of their 
respective organizations of the provisions of the Standard 4C. 
Moreover, as briefly noted above, the standard does not require parcel 
lockers in buildings with less than 10 customer compartments, and 
establishes the parcel locker to customer compartment ratio at 1:10 in 
buildings with more than 10 customer compartments. The standard 
provides that postmasters shall consider and may excuse buildings from 
the need to provide parcel lockers if they have an agreement in place 
with the building owners or property managers that establishes an 
alternate parcel delivery service (e.g., concierge service or 
acceptance at the building management office). The standard allows 
flexibility in the location of parcel lockers (subject to local 
approval) if not fully integrated in the mail receptacle or if located 
adjacent to customer compartments. The standard also recognizes that 
some commercial and residential buildings provide receptacles for 
tenants that exceed the minimum size requirements and can accommodate 
parcels.
    Commenters also addressed the potentially increased cost of new 
receptacles to property owners/managers and the possibility of property 
owners/managers passing these cost increases on to their tenants. The 
committee included manufacturers of apartment mailboxes who estimated 
increases in cost for materials, components, and tooling would vary 
between 15 and 30 percent over current costs depending on many factors 
including the size and abilities of the manufacturer, the materials and 
components they use to manufacture mail receptacles, and market 
conditions. One commenter questioned whether these estimates were 
accurate, although

[[Page 53811]]

it did not provide any information suggesting the estimates are 
inaccurate. Another commenter alleged that the costs might increase by 
a factor of ``ten to twelve times,'' questioning whether the resultant 
costs were worth the benefits that would result from the new standards, 
but did not provide evidence to support its cost estimates. The Postal 
Service does not have any basis to believe the committee's cost 
estimates understate the future price increases for receptacles meeting 
the Standard 4C requirements, and believes the benefits will justify 
the changes.
    One commenter questioned the need for upgraded security for 
delivery equipment. This commenter felt the security level of current 
boxes was sufficient, a position not supported by the committee nor the 
Postal Service. USPS Engineering and the Postal Inspection Service 
demonstrated that better equipment would improve the security of 
personal information from identity theft. They provided historical 
documentation of mail theft and demonstrated proven methods of attacks 
on mail equipment. From 2000 to 2002, Inspection Service statistics 
indicate that reported attacks on wall-mounted boxes increased from 988 
in FY 2000 to 2,819 in FY 2002. While it is not economically feasible 
to require equipment that will protect receptacles against all 
potential attacks, this final rule provides equipment that will 
increase mail security and help to reduce the incidences of theft. This 
effort is consistent with other ongoing Postal Service initiatives to 
improve mail security and customer ease of use in mail delivery 
equipment.
    A commenter also asked whether the Postal Service would supply 
these receptacles to customers and whether there would be more than two 
authorized suppliers. As explained above, this rulemaking will not 
result in any changes in Postal Service policies concerning the 
provision of delivery equipment. Rather, owners/managers of multi-unit 
buildings will remain responsible for the provision of wall-mounted 
centralized mail receptacles required for delivery service. Moreover, 
the rule does not establish any limit on the number of manufacturers 
authorized to manufacture and distribute receptacles meeting the 
specifications of Standard 4C; any manufacturers (currently six) that 
meet the specifications may apply for and receive an authorization to 
produce and distribute such boxes.

Approval Process for Receptacles

    In order to be eligible for Postal Service carrier mail delivery, 
the Postal Service must approve the boxes. In order to receive approval 
under Standard 4C, the manufacturer must submit the receptacle(s), 
along with the supporting materials listed in section 6 of the 
standard, to the Postal Service at the following address:
    Attn: Delivery and Retail Systems, USPS Engineering, 8403 Lee Hwy, 
Merrifield Va 22082-8101.

Re-Approval of Standard Receptacles, Apartment House, Mail USPS STD 4B+

    The re-approval process for manufacturers with mailbox designs that 
were approved before the final publication date of Standard 4C will be 
conducted as follows: (The approval process for all other wall-mounted 
receptacle designs will be conducted in accordance with section 6 of 
Standard 4C.)
    1. The Postal Service will permit, for 180 days after publication 
in the Federal Register of the final rule, current Postal Service 
Standard 4B-approved equipment for new installations or as replacement 
for existing boxes. After the 180-day period has elapsed, the Postal 
Service will no longer authorize the distribution and installation of 
equipment approved under Standard 4B or install Arrow locks in this 
equipment.
    2. Only manufacturers with current, Postal Service-approved 
Standard 4B designs may submit design and product for recertification 
to Standard 4B+.
    3. The Postal Service will notify currently approved manufacturers 
within two (2) business days after final publication of Standard 4C in 
the Federal Register that they may submit their equipment for 
recertification. The Postal Service will provide a copy of Standard 4B+ 
Change Notice 2, which outlines the Standard 4B+ requirements. 
All equipment must be submitted to: Attn: Delivery and Retail Systems, 
USPS Engineering, 8403 Lee Highway, Merrifield, Va 22082-8101.
    4. Manufacturers will have 60 days after receipt of this 
notification to submit a written response to USPS Engineering of their 
intent to submit equipment for recertification to Standard 4B+.
    5. Manufacturers who have properly notified the Postal Service of 
their intent to manufacture equipment to Standard 4B+ under step 4 have 
365 days from the date of publication of the final rule to gain the 
necessary approval for the receptacle under Standard 4B+. However, a 
vendor may not make an additional submission until it has received a 
decision from the Postal Service on a pending submission. A vendor may 
make unlimited submissions within the 365-day period. USPS Engineering 
will respond to each submittal within 45 days.
    6. A previously approved vendor must submit written notification 
within the 60-day period to manufacture and distribute equipment that 
meets Standard 4B+ requirements. However, the vendor may elect to 
submit equipment for approval to the requirements set forth in section 
6 of Standard 4C.

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

    Postal Service.

PART 111--[AMENDED]

0
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. Sec. Sec.  101, 401, 
403, 404, 3001-3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 3626, 5001.


0
2. Revise the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) as follows:

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

D Deposit, Collection, and Delivery

D000 Basic Information

* * * * *

D040 Delivery of Mail

D041 Customer Mail Receptacles

    [Add new section 3.0, to read as follows]
3.0 WALL-MOUNTED CENTRALIZED MAIL RECEPTACLES

3.1 Manufacturer Requirements

    Manufacturers of wall-mounted centralized mail receptacles used for 
mail delivery must receive approval under the specifications and 
procedures set forth in USPS Standard 4. The specifications and other 
applicable information can be obtained by writing to USPS Engineering 
(see G043 for address) or from [email protected].

3.2 Customer Requirements

    The installation of proper equipment is required for the provision 
of delivery service. The type of equipment must be approved by the 
Postal Service under 3.1 and must be appropriate for the structure. 
Customers should discuss the types of approved equipment permitted for 
their structures with their postmaster before purchasing and installing 
delivery equipment. Additional information is available at 
[email protected].
* * * * *
0
3. Replace USPS-STD-4B with USPS-STD-4C as set forth below:

[[Page 53812]]

U.S. Postal Service Standard Wall-Mounted Centralized Mail Receptacles

1. Scope

    1.1 Scope--This standard covers the design, testing, and acceptance 
of wall-mounted, centralized mail receptacles. The use of this standard 
is mandatory and the receptacles shall conform to this standard in 
order to be approved by the Postal Service\TM\.
    1.2 Suggested Design Types--Wall-mounted, centralized mail 
receptacles may be of the general types as shown in figures 1 through 
12. The depicted representations are only examples of possible 
compartment configurations. The intention of these figures is not to 
dictate specific designs and compartment arrangements, but to portray 
design examples that meet the requirements. In all cases, the units 
shall be designed for fully recessed wall mounting.
    Type I, Front Loader--A family of mail receptacles in a single 
column configuration with a single master door design, a minimum of 3 
and a maximum of 8 customer compartments, 1 mail collection compartment 
with separate outgoing mail slot and Arrow lock door, and 1 parcel 
compartment.
    Type II, Front Loader--A family of mail receptacles in a double 
column configuration with a double master door design, a minimum of 3 
and a maximum of 16 customer compartments, 1 mail collection 
compartment with separate outgoing mail slot and Arrow lock door, and 1 
or 2 parcel compartments.
    Type III, Front Loader--A family of mail receptacles in a double 
column configuration with a single master door design, a minimum of 3 
and a maximum of 16 customer compartments, 1 mail collection 
compartment with separate outgoing mail slot and Arrow lock door, and 1 
or 2 parcel compartments.
    Type IV, Rear Loader--A family of mail receptacles in a single 
column configuration with a rear access cover design, a minimum of 3 
and a maximum of 8 customer compartments, 1 mail collection 
compartment, and 1 parcel compartment.
    Type V, Rear Loader--A family of mail receptacles in a double 
column configuration with a rear access cover design, a minimum of 3 
and a maximum of 16 customer compartments, 1 mail collection 
compartment, and 1 or 2 parcel compartments.
    Type VI, Front Loader (No Parcel Compartment)--A family of mail 
receptacles in a single column configuration with a single master door 
design, a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 9 customer compartments and 1 
mail collection compartment with separate outgoing mail slot and Arrow 
lock door.
    Type VII, Rear Loader (No Parcel Compartment)--A family of mail 
receptacles in a single column configuration with a rear access cover 
design, a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 9 customer compartments, and 1 
mail collection compartment.
    Type VIII, Front Loader (No Parcel Compartment)--A family of mail 
receptacles in a double column configuration with a double master door 
design, a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 19 customer compartments, and 1 
mail collection compartment with separate outgoing mail slot and Arrow 
lock door.
    Type IX, Rear Loader (No Parcel Compartment)--A family of mail 
receptacles in a double column configuration with a rear access cover 
design, a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 19 customer compartments, and 1 
mail collection compartment.
    Type X, Front Loader, Parcel Only (No Master Door)--A family of 
parcel receptacles in a single column configuration without a master 
door design. These units are designed to provide separate parcel 
delivery capability for wall-mounted centralized mail receptacles 
installed without integral parcel compartments.
    Type XI, Front Loader, Parcel Only--A family of parcel receptacles 
in a single column configuration with a master door design. These units 
are designed to provide separate parcel delivery capability for wall-
mounted, centralized mail receptacles installed without integral parcel 
compartments.
    Type XII, Rear Loader, Parcel Only--A family of parcel receptacles 
in a single column configuration with a rear access cover design. These 
units are designed to provide separate parcel delivery capability for 
wall-mounted, centralized mail receptacles installed without integral 
parcel compartments.
    1.3 Approved Manufacturers--A list of approved manufacturers is 
available upon request from: USPS Engineering, Delivery and Retail 
Systems, 8403 Lee Highway, Merrifield Va 22082-8101.
    1.3.1 Interested Manufacturers--Manufacturers interested in selling 
wall-mounted, centralized mail receptacles to the public are required 
to obtain Postal Service approval. See section 6 for the application 
process.

2. Applicable Documents

    2.1 Specifications and Standards--Except where specifically noted, 
the specifications set forth herein shall apply to all receptacle 
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--POM, Postal Operations Manual

    Copies of the applicable sections of the Postal Operations Manual 
can be obtained from USPS Delivery and Retail, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, 
Washington, D.C. 20260-6200.

USPS-L-1172--Locks, Compartment, Customer--PSIN O910

    Copies of United States Postal Service[supreg] specifications, 
standards and drawings may be obtained from USPS Delivery and 
Industrial Equipment CMC, Greensboro, NC 27498-0001.
    2.3 Non-Government Documents--The following documents of the latest 
issue are incorporated by reference as part of this standard.

STANDARDS--American Society for Testing and 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 Sand
ASTM D3801 Standard Test Methods for Measuring the Comparative Burning 
Characteristics of Solid Plastics in a Vertical Position

    Copies of the preceding documents may be obtained from the American 
Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor, West Conshohocken, 
PA 19428-2959. (http://www.astm.org)
Underwriters Laboratories--UL 771, Night Depositories (Rain Test Only)
    Copies of the preceding document can be obtained from Underwriters 
Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096. 
(http://www.ul.com)

3. Requirements

    3.1 General Design and Construction-The general configurations of 
the wall-mounted, centralized mail receptacles shall conform to the 
requirements as described in this standard. The receptacles shall be 
designed and constructed so that they can be serviced according to the 
intended method, front or rear access. The receptacles shall be 
designed to allow wall mounting in accordance with the installation 
requirements as stipulated in this document and the applicable sections 
of the current Postal Operations Manual (POM) as referenced in section 
2.2. The receptacle design shall preclude access from one compartment 
to another and it shall provide the required level of security for all 
receptacle contents and resistance to vandalism. The clearance between 
shelving sides and interior sides or rear walls shall prevent the

[[Page 53813]]

passage of a 3\1/2\-inch (height) by 5-inch (length) by .007-inch thick 
card from one compartment to another.
    The design of all wall-mounted, centralized mail receptacles may be 
of the Types specified in 1.2. The design of all receptacles shall be 
such that the unit can be installed either indoors or outdoors. Outdoor 
installations shall be in compliance with conditions as described in 
this document and the applicable sections of the POM without damage or 
deterioration to the materials of the receptacle or to its contents. 
Each unit shall be made of the exact materials, construction, coating, 
finish, etc., as shown on the manufacturer's drawings, which are 
identified and certified by the Postal Service. The overall height, 
width, and depth of any receptacle shall be such that all the 
applicable mounting requirements shall be met.
    All front loading receptacles shall have fixed solid backs.
    3.2 Materials--Latitude shall be allowed in the materials used. The 
thickness, form, and mechanical and chemical properties of the material 
shall be adequate to meet the operational, structural, and performance 
requirements set forth in this standard. Materials must be compatible 
with each other; nontoxic and nonirritating to humans. Dissimilar 
metals shall be protected against galvanic corrosion. The material used 
in the fabrication of this equipment shall be new, suitable for the 
purpose used, free from all defects, and of the best commercial quality 
for this type of equipment.
    3.3 Colors, Coatings and Finishes--Exterior colors and finishes of 
the receptacles, in general, shall be optional with the manufacturer. 
Any finish or coating selected should meet all the requirements of this 
document.
    3.4 Mounting and Hardware--The hardware for attaching the 
receptacle to the wall shall be provided and packaged with the unit. 
All mounting hardware shall meet the corrosion resistance requirements 
of this document. Mounting hardware shall not protrude from any part of 
the unit to create a hazardous catch or bump point for customers or 
carriers. The mounting hardware shall be accessible for replacement in 
the event of damage to the unit and shall be hidden from public view 
while in service. The mounting technique and hardware selected shall 
allow the receptacle, when wall-mounted in accordance with the 
manufacturer's instructions, to meet the pull requirements of section 
4.11.9.
    3.5 Customer and Parcel Compartment Doors--All compartment doors 
shall meet the common requirements listed in this section. In addition, 
each type of compartment doors shall meet any unique door requirements 
as described in 3.5.1 through 3.5.4 below.
    All compartments of front loading receptacles shall have their own 
door and shall be hinged on the right. The door hinges shall be 
concealed or designed to prevent tampering. The doors shall be designed 
to open, close, and lock without binding or excessive play. All doors 
shall open a minimum of 90 degrees. The clearance between door and door 
opening shall be evenly spaced, consistent in size, and minimized to 
preclude prying with such simple tools as knives, screwdrivers, thin 
metal strips, etc.
    Optional compartment heights, requiring doors or blanking plates 
larger than the minimum, shall be allowable, except as stated in 
section 3.5.3. However, no offered compartment height shall preclude 
any of the critical installation requirements, or any other 
requirement, from being met. In addition, no compartment size shall be 
offered as ``approved'' that is larger than any Postal Service tested 
and approved size for that particular manufacturer.
    3.5.1 Customer Compartment Doors--Once opened, a customer door 
shall remain in the opened position until closed and locked. Each door 
shall permit the mounting of a lock as required by 3.10.1.
    3.5.2 Parcel Compartment Doors--The doors shall be spring loaded to 
return the doors to the fully closed position. The spring shall be of 
sufficient strength to close the door from any opened position. The 
strength of the spring shall not be excessive as to create the 
potential for injury or cause the doors to ``slam'' shut. Each door 
shall permit the mounting of locks as required by 3.10.2.
    3.5.3 Carrier Access (Arrow Lock) Door (Front Loader Designs)--The 
carrier access door shall have accommodations for mounting either Arrow 
lock shown in figure 13 in such a manner that the modified Arrow lock 
cylinder is flush with the front of the compartment door and the 
standard Arrow lock is slightly recessed. This door shall be designed 
to accommodate the mounting of the Arrow lock and the securing of a 
minimum-sized (3 inches high by 12 inches wide by 15 inches deep) 
compartment, which typically shall be used for retrieval of collection 
mail. For security reasons, under no circumstances shall this door be 
offered in any larger sizes. Once opened, the carrier access door shall 
remain in the opened position until closed and locked. This door shall 
not be numbered or lettered.
    3.5.4 Collection Mail Compartment Blanking Plate (Rear Loader 
Designs)--Rear loader receptacles shall have a blanking plate, sized to 
cover a minimum 3 inches high by 12 inches wide compartment, directly 
beneath the collection mail slot. This plate ensures a minimally 
acceptable compartment volume for the customer outgoing mail on rear 
loaders.
    3.6 Master Loading Door(s)
    3.6.1 Front Loader Designs--These units shall be equipped with a 
master loading door(s) on the same side as the individual compartment 
and parcel doors. The master loading door(s) shall allow access to all 
the unit's customer compartments and parcel compartments for the 
deposit of letter mail and parcels and the collection of customer 
outgoing mail. The master loading doors shall be designed not to 
interfere with the loading of customer and parcel compartments. These 
doors shall be designed so the withdrawal of mail through the 
individual customer doors allows the mail to slide smoothly over any 
parts of the master, customer, or parcel doors. The master loading 
door(s) shall be easy to open and close. For any double master loading 
door design, the doors shall be hinged on opposite sides and latched at 
the center of the unit. The door hinges shall be continuous or 
concealed and designed to prevent tampering. The doors shall lock in 
the open position by an automatic self-locking device until the 
delivery employee completes loading. The doors shall be held open at an 
angle of 90 degrees (+5, -0). The delivery employee shall be able to 
easily release the hold open device to close the door when loading has 
been completed. The door hold-open device shall withstand an inward or 
outward pull of 50 (+5, -0) pounds when applied to the master door edge 
farthest from the master door hinge and in a direction perpendicular to 
the door. (Note: For any nonparcel compartment design, disregard parcel 
compartment references.)
    The master loading door for any single door receptacle design and 
the right master loading door for any double master door design shall, 
as a minimum, have provisions and accommodations for a three-point 
(top, middle, bottom) latching mechanism, exclusive of the hinges, in 
conjunction with either a standard or modified Arrow lock to secure the 
door. Unless used solely as an actuator for locking pin(s), the Arrow 
lock shall lock the master loading door latch mechanism to ensure that 
the master loading doors are securely latched and that the latch 
mechanism

[[Page 53814]]

cannot be moved. A limited loading shall be permitted on the end of the 
Arrow lock bolt only when the Arrow lock is used as an actuator to 
engage locking pins. In this case, the locking pin(s) shall secure the 
Arrow lock door to the master loading door frame. Only Arrow locks 
dimensioned in figure 13 shall be acceptable. The latching mechanism 
shall be rigid in design to avoid distortion. Locknuts shall be 
included for installing the Arrow lock. The master loading door(s) 
shall be easy to open, close, and lock. The carrier access shall not 
have pinch points or sharp edges. Clearance between the door and door 
opening shall be evenly spaced and consistent in size. The master 
loading doors shall be easily unlatched and opened using one hand. The 
latch mechanism may be mounted either on the unit frame or the master 
loading door. Clearance below the latch handle in either case shall be 
a minimum of 1.25 inches. When the carrier activates a master loading 
door latch mechanism mounted on the unit frame, the outer edge of the 
master loading door shall be automatically opened a minimum of 1 inch 
outside the door frame, enabling the carrier to easily grasp the door. 
When the latch mechanism is mounted on the unit frame, the handle must 
provide between 1.25 and 1.50 inches of grip length and a minimum of 1 
square inch of surface area. When the carrier activates a master 
loading door latch mounted on the door, the latch handle may be used to 
pull the door open. When the latch mechanism is mounted on the door, 
the handle must provide a minimum of 1.75 inches of grip length. In any 
double master door design, when the master loading door with the Arrow 
lock traps, or locks the left master loading door, a push-out device 
shall not be required if the carrier can easily grasp and open the left 
door.
    3.6.2 Rear Loader Designs--The master loading door for any rear 
loading units shall be in the form of a rear cover or door, which can 
be opened or removed and closed or replaced by the mail carrier, which 
will permit delivery of mail to each compartment. The cover or door 
shall prevent the mail from falling out between the cover or door and 
shelves, and be strong enough to prevent theft of the contents of 
adjoining receptacles by manually forcing the rear door or cover from 
the front of the receptacle through a compartment. The cover or door 
shall be capable of being latched or secured; locking is not required.
    3.7 Customer and Parcel Compartment Sizes--Customer and parcel 
compartment size requirements shall be as specified below.
    3.7.1 Customer Compartment Sizes--The minimum interior dimensions 
of each customer delivery compartment shall be 3 inches high by 12 
inches wide by 15 inches deep. Optional compartment heights, greater 
than the 3 inch minimum, shall be allowable, and mixed size customer 
compartments may be offered in any one unit. However, no combination 
shall preclude any of the critical installation requirements, or any 
other requirement, from being met. In addition, no compartment size 
shall be offered as ``approved'' that is larger than any Postal 
Service-tested and approved size for that particular manufacturer.
    3.7.2 Parcel Compartment Sizes--The minimum interior dimensions of 
the parcel compartments shall be as follows:

(a) Standard Parcel Locker--15 inches high by 12 inches wide by 15 
inches deep
(b) Large Parcel Locker--18 inches high by 12 inches wide by 15 inches 
deep

    3.7.2.1 Parcel Locker to Customer Compartment Ratio--A minimum of 
one standard parcel locker shall be provided for every ten customer 
compartments. For installation sites with less than ten customer 
compartments, there shall be no mandatory parcel locker requirement, 
however, it shall be the intent of the Postal Service to strongly 
encourage the inclusion of a parcel locker.
    3.8 Collection Mail and Carrier Access (front-loading designs only) 
Compartment--All units shall have one reinforced collection mail 
compartment. A mail deposit slot 10.75 inches wide by .75 inches high 
shall be provided with a weather shield and a security shield to 
protect the deposited mail from the rain and snow and to prevent 
removal of the mail by fishing and pilfering techniques through the 
deposit slot. This compartment shall not be numbered or lettered. The 
phrase ``OUTGOING MAIL'' shall be marked on the deposit slot shield in 
black, recessed lettering. Marking shall be permanent and lettering 
size shall be \3/8\ to \1/2\ inch high.
    3.8.1 Front-Loading Designs--For front-loading designs, the front 
of the minimum-sized collection compartment shall consist of the 
carrier access (Arrow lock) door, as described in section 3.5.3, and 
the mail collection/deposit slot, which is framed by separate elements 
providing the weather and security shielding. The mail deposit slot 
frame design shall be hard mounted to the master door structure. 
Optional outgoing mail compartment heights shall be allowable. Hard-
mounted front blanking plates shall be used as required under the Arrow 
lock door for any larger collection mail compartment offerings. In 
addition, no offered outgoing mail compartment height shall preclude 
any of the critical installation requirements, or any other 
requirement, from being met, and no compartment size shall be offered 
that is larger than any fully tested size.
    3.8.2 Rear-Loading Designs--For rear-loading designs, the front of 
the minimum-sized collection compartment shall consist of a blanking 
plate hard mounted to the master door structure and the mail 
collection/deposit slot, which is framed by separate elements providing 
the weather and security shielding. Optional outgoing mail compartment 
heights, requiring blanking plates larger than the minimum, shall be 
allowable. However, no offered outgoing mail compartment height shall 
preclude any of the critical installation requirements, or any other 
requirement, from being met. In addition, no compartment size shall be 
offered that is larger than any fully tested size.
    3.9 Identification--Customer and compartment identifications shall 
be in the following manner.
    3.9.1 Customer Compartment Identification--Customer compartment 
doors shall be identified using either numbers or letters, optionally, 
in sequence from top to bottom. For any double master door designs, the 
numbers or letters shall start from the upper left corner compartment. 
In addition, they shall be \3/4\ to 1 inch high, sequential, black, and 
recessed. They may be engraved or stamped. Brushed aluminum decals with 
black numbering may be used, provided the decals are recessed in the 
door or a raised rib is provided around the decal to enhance the 
decal's location and limit removal. Decals shall be secured using a 
permanent type of adhesive. Numbers shall be made with one decal and 
not a combination of two single letter or number decals. In the 
horizontal direction, the centerline of the numbers shall be to the 
right of the customer lock (top lock) centerline. In the vertical 
direction, the customer lock and the numbers shall be the same 
centerline.
    3.9.2 Parcel Compartment Identification--Parcel compartment doors 
shall be provided with \3/4\ to 1 inch high, sequential, black, 
recessed numbers. Numbers may be engraved or stamped. Brushed aluminum 
decals with black numbering may be used, provided they are recessed in 
the door or a raised rib is provided around the

[[Page 53815]]

decal to enhance decal location and limit removal. Decals shall be 
secured using a permanent type of adhesive. Numbers shall be made with 
one decal and not a combination of two single letter or number decals. 
Raised lettering shall not be acceptable. Parcel compartment doors 
shall be numbered (typically, 1P, 2P, etc). In the horizontal 
direction, the centerline of the letters shall be to the right of the 
customer lock (top lock) centerline. In the vertical direction, the 
customer lock and the numbers shall be the same centerline.
    3.9.3 Customer Identification--A minimum \1/2\ inch wide surface 
shall be located below the front of each delivery compartment shelf. 
The surface shall be concealed by the master door(s) and shall be 
visible only by the carrier once the master door(s) is opened. The 
surface provided shall be smooth and will allow for the optional 
attachment of self-adhesive labels. Alternatively, each compartment may 
be equipped with either a clasp or holder to accommodate a name card, 
or supplied with a designated flat surface for a permanent-type 
pressure-sensitive label for identifying the customer using the 
compartment. The holder or clasp shall be located on the frame above 
each compartment or inside of the compartment where the customer's name 
will be easily visible to the carrier when the box is opened for 
loading. The holder shall be of sufficient size to hold a name card of 
.75 inch by 2.50 inches or as large as space permits.
    3.10 Locks---Locks and cams shall be provided as specified below.
    3.10.1 Customer Compartment Locks--Each customer compartment door 
shall use a PSIN O910 lock, as specified in USPS-L-1172, or equivalent. 
The hole pattern for the lock is shown in figure 14. The hole shall be 
able to withstand 100 foot pounds of rotational torque, preventing the 
lock from being turned in the door allowing unauthorized entry into the 
compartment. The locks shall be oriented so that the locking cam 
rotates 90 degrees from the locked to the unlocked position. The key 
shall be removable only in the locked position. Individual customer 
locks shall be located in the compartment doors on the left side. Each 
lock shall be provided with three keys as specified in section 3.11.1. 
Key numbers shall not be placed on any exterior exposed surface. Cams 
shall be designed by the manufacturer to allow a secure grip of the 
lock to the compartment side wall. Each compartment lock shall be keyed 
differently in each receptacle. The locks must be securely fastened to 
the door to preclude punching out and twisting off. All customer 
compartment doors shall be locked for shipment.
    3.10.2 Parcel Compartment Locks--Each parcel compartment door shall 
be configured to accept a combination 910/Arrow lock arrangement. The 
910 lock shall serve as the customer access lock. Any parcel 
compartment provided as an integral part of a receptacle design shall 
have a 910 lock that is keyed differently than any customer compartment 
lock in the receptacle. The lock may itself provide the locking cam to 
secure the parcel door or it may be used as an actuator in such a way 
as its cam moves locking pins into place to secure the parcel door. The 
locking pins would withstand the pry attack loads. The Arrow lock 
``captures'' the 910 lock after its key has been inserted and the lock 
turned to allow the customer to remove their parcel. The Arrow lock and 
the 910 lock shall be located in a partitioned compartment and, for 
ease of maintenance reasons, shall not share the same compartment 
cover. The 910 lock cover shall be secured with standard hardware while 
the Arrow lock compartment cover shall be secured with tamper resistant 
screws. All parcel compartment doors shall be locked for shipment.
    3.10.3 Master Loading Door Lock (Front-Loading Designs)--Front 
loader receptacles shall be secured with an Arrow lock, in accordance 
with figure 13, to lock the master loading door(s) as defined in 
section 3.6.1. These units shall be configured so that the Arrow lock 
is always located directly beneath the collection mail slot. The mail 
slot and the Arrow lock door (carrier access door) shall share the same 
compartment but be separate items for security reasons. The Arrow lock 
shall be furnished and installed by the local postmaster or his 
representative. In addition, the Postal Service will provide dummy 
Arrow locks for test purposes upon request.
    3.11 Keys and Key Identification--All compartment keys for locks in 
accordance with USPS-L-1172 or equivalent shall be identified and 
perform in the following manner to allow for efficient control, 
security, and operation. No two compartments in the same receptacle 
shall be keyed alike. In addition, the full complement of required key 
codes shall be utilized in sequential order prior to repeating any 
individual key code within a production lot of receptacles. All keys 
shall have any burrs removed and shall move freely in and out of the 
lock. When the lock is installed and the key is inserted, the locks 
must be positioned so that the key is free to turn without binding or 
contacting/scraping any adjoining surface.
    3.11.1 Compartment Keys--Three keys shall be provided for each 
customer compartment and shall be delivered on a single key ring. All 
keys shall be temporarily identified for their respective compartment, 
bagged, and securely taped inside the collection compartment for 
shipping.
    3.11.2 Parcel Keys and Tags--Heavy-duty, rigid, clear plastic tags 
with card inserts containing instructions to the Postal Service 
customer on the use of the key, shall be furnished with each key for an 
individual parcel receptacle. The plastic tags shall be 1\1/2\  \1/16\ inches wide by 3  \1/16\ inches long by \1/
16\ (+\1/16\, -0) inches thick, and shall have an opening at one end 
for a key ring. All holes or openings shall be reinforced. The tags 
shall also have a swivel device for key ring mounting. Heavy-duty rings 
for attaching the holder to the individual key shall be provided for 
parcel receptacle keys. The key shall not be easy to remove from the 
key ring. Each insert card shall be identified with a serial number 
that is the same as the mail receptacle unit's serial number. The cards 
shall be numbered (e.g., 1P, 2P, etc) to correspond with their 
respective parcel receptacles. Card insert lettering shall be legible 
and of sufficient size and contrast to be easily read. All keys shall 
move freely in and out of the lock. Three keys shall be provided for 
each receptacle lock, tagged with the clear plastic holder for their 
respective receptacle, and placed in the same bag with compartment 
keys.
    The card insert shall be as follows:

Clear Plastic Holder with card insert (side A & B), YOU HAVE MAIL IN 
RECEPTACLE ---- * UNLOCK TOP LOCK AND REMOVE MAIL. KEY REMAINS 
IN LOCK.


    *Note: The manufacturer shall provide the numbers and names as 
specified above.

    3.12 Marking--For front-loading designs, there must be two 
inscriptions centered on the carrier access 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. For rear-loading 
designs, these inscriptions must be centered on the blank panel of the 
outgoing mail compartment. These inscriptions shall be positioned in a 
vertical stack with ``U.S. Mail'' appearing above ``APPROVED BY THE 
POSTMASTER GENERAL.'' Markings must be permanent and may be 
accomplished by applying a decal, embossing on sheet metal, applying 
raised lettering on plastic, or using other methods that are suitable. 
In addition, a

[[Page 53816]]

legible and permanently marked decal with ``USPS-STD-4C,'' the 
manufacturer's name, address, date of manufacture (month and year), 
unit serial number, and model number or nomenclature must be affixed to 
the receptacle in a location that is readily visible to carriers.
    3.13 Assembly and Installation Instructions--A complete set of 
instructions including illustrations for assembling and installing the 
receptacle shall be prepared and provided with each receptacle. Both 
front- and rear-loading receptacles shall be mounted in accordance with 
the installation requirements as stipulated in this document and the 
applicable sections of the current Postal Operations Manual (POM) as 
referenced in section 2.2. The installation described shall be tested 
in accordance with the testing of section 4.11.9. These instructions 
shall completely convey all recess wall-mounting details, including 
equipment installation height restrictions as provided in the figures 
and the parcel locker ratio information. In addition, the instruction 
sheet shall carry a notice that the receptacle met all requirements of 
the Postal Service standard.
    3.14 Workmanship--Workmanship shall be of the highest quality 
throughout. All parts shall be clean, straight, accurately formed and 
assembled, properly fitted, and uniform in size and shape. Parts shall 
be free from delaminations, cracks, warpage, bulges, kinks, dents, 
porosity, voids, lumps, foreign matter, and other defects. Finished or 
coated surfaces shall be smooth and uniform, and free from soft areas, 
stain, chips, crazing, and cracks. Seams and connections shall be 
tight. Welding, riveting, and other joining shall be done in a neat and 
approved manner. The receptacle shall be free from sharp edges, sharp 
corners, protruding rivets, and operational features, which might 
injure or hamper the carrier or customer.
    3.15 Bolted Connections--Bolts or screws that can be removed in any 
exposed area shall not be used for joining parts of the receptacle. 
Sheet metal screws shall not be used in the assembly of the receptacle.
    3.16 Riveted Joints--Hollow-type eyelets or grommets shall not be 
used in the fabrication of the receptacle.
    3.17 Welding--Any type of weld (electric-arc, resistance, gas, 
etc.) may be used in the fabrication of the receptacle, providing it 
produces a satisfactory and safe joint and is performed in accordance 
with applicable best commercial practices.
    3.18 Fabrication and Assembly--All components and parts shall be 
fabricated and assembled to be permanently square and rigid to preclude 
binding, warping, or misalignment, which may reduce or prevent proper 
equipment operation or maintenance or may result in a premature failure 
of any part or component.
4. Testing Requirements
    4.1 Testing Requirements--Units will be subjected to all applicable 
testing described herein. A unit that fails to pass any test will be 
rejected. Testing will be conducted in sequence as listed herein and in 
table III.
    4.2 Capacity
    4.2.1 Customer Compartments--Customer compartments must meet 
minimum capacity requirements tested by insertion and removal of a 
standard test gauge which measures 2\15/16\ inches high by 11\15/16\ 
inches wide by 14\15/16\ inches deep. The test gauge will be inserted 
with its 2\15/16\-inch dimension aligned in the vertical axis 
(perpendicular to the compartment 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.
    4.2.2 Collection Mail Compartment--The collection mail compartment 
must meet minimum capacity requirements tested by insertion through the 
mail deposit slot of 48 standard letters (4.00 inches high by 9.50 
inches long by .12 inch thick) and 4 Express Mail or Priority Mail 
envelopes (9.50 inches high by 12.50 inches long by .50 inch thick). 
Letter and envelope thicknesses shall be achieved by inserting 8.50 
inch by 11 inch paper.
    4.2.3 Parcel Compartment--Parcel compartments must meet minimum 
capacity requirements tested by insertion and removal of a standard 
test gauge which measures 14\15/16\ inches high by 11\15/16\ inches 
wide by 14\15/16\ inches deep. The test gauge will be inserted with a 
14\15/16\ inch dimension aligned on the vertical axis (perpendicular to 
the compartment 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.
    4.3 Operational Requirements--The carrier access (Arrow lock) door, 
customer doors, parcel doors, master loading door(s), and hold open 
device(s) must be capable of operating 10,000 normal operating cycles 
(1 cycle = open/close) at room temperature, continuously and correctly, 
without any failures such as breakage of parts. The cycle rate for 
carrier access (Arrow lock), customer and parcel doors shall not exceed 
3 seconds per cycle. The cycle rate for the master loading door(s) and 
hold open device(s) shall not exceed 10 seconds per cycle. Testing may 
be performed either manually or by means of an automated, mechanically 
driven test fixture that replicates a manual operation.
    4.4 Water-Tightness--A rain test in accordance with UL 771, section 
47.7 shall be performed to determine a receptacle's ability to protect 
mail from water. Prior to the test, the unit shall be prepared by 
shielding the body of the receptacle so that only the master door, 
customer doors, and front frame elements shall be directly exposed to 
rain during the test. The rain test shall be operated for a period of 
15 minutes on the customer compartment door (front) side of the mail 
receptacle. At the conclusion of the test, the outside of the unit is 
wiped dry and all doors are opened. The inside of the compartments must 
contain no water other than that produced by high moisture 
condensation.
    4.5 Salt Fog Resistance--A salt fog 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 1-hour fog and 1-hour 
dry-off. The unit 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 receptacle 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 upon the 
surface shall not be cause for rejection. However, any corrosion, paint 
blistering, or paint peeling is cause for rejection. It is also valid 
for units made of plastic that employ metal hardware.
    4.6 Abrasion Resistance--The unit'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 223 
seconds. The receptacle 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 
receptacle designs only.
    4.7 Temperature Stress Test--The unit under test shall be placed in 
a cold chamber at -40[deg] Fahrenheit (F) for 24 hours. The chamber 
shall first be

[[Page 53817]]

stabilized at the test temperature. After remaining in the -40[deg] F 
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 3 minutes. The room 
ambient shall be between 65[deg] and 75[deg] F. 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] F.
    4.8 Structural Rigidity Requirements--Pull loads of the specified 
magnitudes (see table II) shall be slowly applied at any point of the 
specific item of the unit under test. These forces shall be held for a 
time not to exceed one minute and then released. Supplemental bracing 
may be used to isolate the loading on the specific item to be tested. 
After the release of the load, the permanent deformation caused by the 
forces shall be measured. If the deformation exceeds the limit 
specified in table II, the unit under test has failed to meet the 
structural rigidity requirement.

                                Table II
                [Pull load permanent deformation limits]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 Permanent
                    Item                        deformation    Pull load
                                                  (inches)      (pounds)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carrier Access (Arrow Lock) Door(Front-                \1/8\        1400
 Loading Designs)...........................
Collection Comp. Front Blanking Plate(Rear-            \1/8\        1400
 Loading Designs)...........................
Collection Mail Slot Frame(All Designs                 \1/8\        1400
 Except Parcel-Only)........................
Master Door(s) at Hinge Side--Top & Bottom             \1/8\        1000
 (Front-Loading Designs)....................
Master Door at Center Along Arrow Lock Side--          \1/8\        1000
 (Front-Loading Designs)....................
Rear Cover(Rear-Loading Designs)............           \1/8\         250
Customer Compartment Door(All Designs Except           \1/8\         250
 Parcel-Only)...............................
Parcel Compartment Door (All Designs Except            \1/8\         250
 Non-Parcel Versions).......................
Master Door Hold-Open Device(Front-Loading                 0          50
 Designs)...................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    4.9 Impact Test--The front exposed surfaces of the receptacles and 
any coatings applied to them shall not be cracked, chipped, broken, 
dented (more than \1/16\ inch in depth), or visibly permanently 
deformed by a hard steel 2-pound ball with a \1/2\-inch spherical 
radius dropped from a height of 6 inches.
    4.10 Flammability--A flammability test shall be conducted on all 
potentially flammable materials used in the unit. The test shall be 
conducted in accordance with ASTM D3801. The ASTM D3801 standard flame 
test shall achieve a rating of V-1 or better. (Note: It is the building 
owner's responsibility to make sure that the installation of any 
receptacle is in compliance with local building and fire codes.)
    4.11 Security Test--Receptacles shall be tested, as described 
below, for resistance to tampering and unauthorized entry through the 
use of tools such as screwdrivers, flat plates, knives, pry bars, vise 
grips, pliers, chisels, and punches for a period not to exceed 3 
minutes for each feature tested. No pry tools shall exceed 18 inches in 
length. Because of the critical nature of the master-loading door and 
Arrow lock (outgoing mail) compartment, a hammer shall be used in 
tandem with the other tools during tests of these items. The head 
weight of any hammer used shall not exceed 3 pounds. In addition, the 
Arrow lock compartment door will also be subjected to a 2-minute torch 
test using commonly available microtorch kits.
    4.11.1 Customer Compartment and Parcel Compartment Customer Access 
Locks--Customer lock plugs shall withstand a minimum of 70 pounds of 
force slowly applied inward. Load forces shall be applied to the key 
entrance side of the lock. The lock and door shall remain closed and 
locked after each test. In addition, the locks shall be tested using 
vise grips and other tools in an attempt to turn the lock with the 
customer or parcel door in the closed position. These tests shall not 
allow access to the customer or parcel compartment.
    4.11.2 Customer Compartment Doors--Gaps and seams around the 
perimeter of the customer compartment doors shall be tested using pry 
tools listed in 4.11 for a period not to exceed 3 minutes to ensure 
that access to the compartment cannot be gained. The lock-mounting hole 
in the door shall be able to withstand 100 foot-pounds of torque 
applied in the plane of the door, preventing the lock from being turned 
in the door allowing unauthorized entry into the compartment.
    4.11.3 Parcel Compartment Door--Gaps and seams around the perimeter 
of the parcel compartment door(s) shall be tested using pry tools 
listed in 4.11 for a period not to exceed 3 minutes to ensure that 
access to the compartment cannot be gained.
    4.11.4 Master Loading Door (Front-Loading Designs only)--Seams 
around the perimeter of the master loading door(s) shall not allow 
access to the interior of the receptacle when tested using pry tools 
listed in 4.11 for a period not to exceed 3 minutes. A 3-pound hammer 
shall be used for a time period not to exceed 1 minute in tandem with 
these other tools during the tests of the master-loading door(s).
    4.11.5 Arrow Lock Compartment Door (Front Loading Designs only)--
The Arrow lock compartment door shall be tested using the pry tools in 
4.11 for a period not to exceed 3 minutes. A 3-pound hammer shall be 
used for a time period not to exceed 1 minute in tandem with these 
other tools during the tests of various features of the Arrow lock 
compartment. Seams and gaps around the perimeter of the Arrow lock 
compartment door and the structural integrity of the door itself shall 
not allow access to the receptacle under test conditions. In addition, 
the Arrow lock compartment door will also be subjected to a 2-minute 
torch test using commonly available microtorch kits. (Note: These tests 
shall not be performed on the same test door.)
    4.11.6 Outgoing Mail Slot--The mail slot and security shield design 
shall be tested using the pry tools in 4.11 for a period not to exceed 
3 minutes. A 3-pound hammer shall be used for a time period not to 
exceed 1 minute in tandem with these other tools during the tests of 
the seams and gaps around the perimeter of the mail slot. In addition, 
as part of the test, a pry bar not exceeding 18 inches in length shall 
be inserted into the mail slot in an attempt to gain access to 
deposited mail in the compartment.

[[Page 53818]]

    4.11.7 Outgoing Mail Compartment Front Blanking Plate--Gaps and 
seams around the perimeter of any outgoing mail compartment front 
blanking plate shall be tested using pry tools listed in 4.11 for a 
period not to exceed 3 minutes to ensure that access to the compartment 
cannot be gained. A 3-pound hammer shall be used for a time period not 
to exceed 1 minute in tandem with these other tools during the tests of 
the seams and gaps around the perimeter of this item.
    4.11.8 Rear Door/Panel (Rear Loading Designs only)--The rear cover 
shall be tested for a period not to exceed 3 minutes by attempting to 
force it to unseat. No access to the backside of the unit or to any 
adjacent compartments shall be gained as a result of this test. All 
customer compartment and parcel locker doors shall be open for this 
test.
    4.11.9 Receptacle Installation (All Designs)--Receptacles will be 
installed in a representative wall fixture in accordance with the 
installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. The 
receptacle's mounting hardware will be subjected to a uniform pull load 
of 500 pounds. This load will be applied by placing a bolster plate to 
the backside area of the receptacle and attaching it to one or more 
cables that are passed through drill holes added to the rear wall of 
the actual receptacle. Any front doors of customer compartments in 
alignment with the cables may be opened or removed for the test. All 
bolster plate cables will be tied together at a minimum distance of 3 
feet from the front surface of the unit with a single cable fitted with 
a shackle, hook, etc. A maximum horizontal pull load of 500 pounds will 
be applied and the receptacle will have met this requirement if its 
mounting hardware is not loosened from its wall mount. Supplemental 
bracing of the wall may be used to isolate the loading on the 
receptacle's mounting hardware.

5. Quality Management System Provisions

    5.1 Quality System--The approved source shall ensure and be able to 
substantiate that manufactured units conform to requirements and match 
the approved design.
    5.2 Inspection--The USPS reserves the right to inspect units for 
conformance at any stage of manufacture. Inspection by the USPS does 
not relieve the approved source of the responsibility to provide 
conforming product. The USPS may, at its discretion, revoke the 
approval status of any product that does not meet the requirements of 
this standard.
    5.3 System--The approved source shall use a documented quality 
management system acceptable to the USPS. The USPS has the right to 
evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of the approved source's 
quality management system prior to approval, and during tenure as an 
approved source. As a minimum, the quality management system shall 
include controls and record keeping in the following areas:
    5.3.1 Document Control--Documents used in the manufacture of 
product shall be controlled. The control process for documents shall 
ensure the following:

 Documents are identified, reviewed, and approved prior to use,
 Revision status is identified,
 Documents of external origin are identified and controlled.

    5.3.2 Supplier Oversight--A documented process that ensures the 
following:

 Material requirements and specifications are clearly described 
in procurement documents,
 Inspection or other verification methods are established and 
implemented for validation of purchased materials.

    5.3.3 Inspection and Testing--The approved source shall monitor and 
verify that product characteristics match approved design. This 
activity shall be carried out at appropriate stages of manufacture to 
ensure that only acceptable products are delivered.
    5.3.4 Control of Nonconforming Product--The control method and 
disposition process shall be defined and ensure that any product or 
material that does not conform to the approved design is identified and 
controlled to prevent its unintended use or delivery.
    5.3.5 Control of Inspection, Measuring, and Test Equipment--The 
approved source shall ensure that all equipment used to verify product 
conformance is controlled, identified, and calibrated at prescribed 
intervals traceable to nationally recognized standards in accordance 
with documented procedures.
    5.3.6 Corrective Action--The approved source shall maintain a 
documented complaint process. This process shall ensure that all 
complaints are reviewed and that appropriate action is taken to 
determine cause and prevent reoccurrence. Action shall be taken in a 
timely manner and be based on the severity of the nonconformance.

    Note: It is recognized that each approved source functions 
individually and consequently, the quality system of each approved 
source may differ in the specific methods of accomplishment. It is 
not the intent of this standard to attempt to standardize these 
systems, but to present the basic functional concepts that when 
conscientiously implemented will provide assurance that the approved 
source's product meets the requirements and fully matches the 
approved design.


    In addition to outlining the approved source's approach to quality, 
the documentation should specify the methodology used to accomplish the 
interlinked processes and describe how they are controlled. The 
approved source shall submit its quality documentation to the Postal 
Service for review along with the preliminary design review.
    5.3.7 Documentation Retention--All of the approved source's 
documentation pertaining to the approved product shall be kept for a 
minimum of three (3) years after shipment of product.
    5.3.8 Documentation Submittal--The approved source shall submit a 
copy of their quality system documentation relevant to the manufacture 
of wall-mounted, centralized mail receptacles for review as requested 
during the approval process and tenure as an approved source.

6. Application Requirements

    6.1 Application Requirements--All correspondence and inquiries 
shall be directed to the address in 1.3. The application process 
consists of:
    6.1.1 Preliminary Review--Manufacturers must first satisfy 
requirements of a preliminary review prior to submitting samples of any 
receptacles. The preliminary review consists of a review of the 
manufacturer's conceptual design drawings for each receptacle type for 
which the manufacturer is seeking approval. Computer-generated drawings 
are preferred, but hand-drawn sketches are acceptable provided they 
adequately depict the important design aspects of the proposed 
receptacle design. In particular, drawings should include overall unit 
with standard and optional compartment size information plus details on 
the design of such critical features as the carrier access, customer, 
parcel and master load door(s) designs, hinge designs, all lock-
mounting techniques and cam engagements, material selections, the 3-
point latching and handle designs, the wall mounting concept, and 
outgoing mail slot design. If drawings show that the proposed 
receptacle design appears likely to comply with the requirements of 
this standard, manufacturers will be notified in writing and may then 
continue with the application requirements described

[[Page 53819]]

in 6.1.2. Do NOT submit any sample units to the USPS prior to complying 
with the requirements of 6.1.2. 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 ultimately be approved.
    6.1.2 Independent Lab Testing--Upon receiving written notification 
from the USPS that their design(s) satisfies requirements of the 
preliminary review, manufacturers shall at their own expense submit at 
least one representative sample of the highest total-compartment 
version of each Type apartment receptacle for which the vendor seeks 
USPS approval to an independent laboratory for testing along with a 
copy of the preliminary review letter from the USPS. If the vendor 
plans to offer optional compartment sizes, the submitted samples shall 
include at least one of the largest compartment size. All tests shall 
be performed by an approved independent test lab, except for the 
security tests which shall be performed by the Postal Service. See 
Appendix A for a list of USPS approved independent test labs.
    6.1.3 Final Review--Manufacturers shall submit two representative 
samples of the largest (typically, the highest total-compartment) 
version to the USPS for security testing, final review and approval. If 
the vendor plans to offer optional compartment sizes, the submitted 
samples shall include at least one of the largest compartment size. The 
sample shall be accompanied with a certificate of compliance and a copy 
of the laboratory test results (see 6.1.3.3). Receptacles submitted to 
the USPS (see 1.3) for final evaluation must be identical in every way 
to the receptacles to be marketed, and must be marked as specified in 
3.11. 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 6.1.3.4) and an onsite quality 
system evaluation (see 5.2).
    6.1.3.1 Installation Instructions--Manufacturers shall furnish a 
written copy of their installation instructions for review. These 
instructions shall contain all information as detailed in section 3.13.
    6.1.3.2 Documentation--Units submitted for approval shall be 
accompanied by two complete sets 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. If other versions of the approved Type 
unit are to be offered, the drawings must include the unique or 
differing design items of these versions. The drawings must include 
sufficient details to allow the USPS to inspect all materials, 
construction methods, processes, coatings, treatments, finishes 
(including paint types), 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.
    6.1.3.3 Certification of Compliance & Test Results--Manufacturers 
shall furnish a written certificate of compliance indicating that their 
design fully complies with the requirements of this standard. In 
addition, the manufacturer shall submit the lab's original report which 
clearly shows results of each test conducted (see table IV). 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 IV.--Test Requirements
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Test                         Requirement           Reference       Industry  specifications
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity...........................  Insertion of test gauges...         4.2
Operational Requirements...........  10,000 cycles..............         4.3
Water-Tightness....................  No appreciable moisture....         4.4  UL 771, section 47.7.
Salt Fog Resistance................  25 cycles..................         4.5  ASTM G85.
Abrasion Resistance................  75 liters..................         4.6  ASTM D968.
Temperature Stress Test............  Shall function between -            4.7
                                      40[deg]F and 140[deg]F.
Structural Rigidity Requirements...  Refer to Table I for loads          4.8
                                      and points, maximum \1/8\
                                      inch permanent deformation.
Impact.............................  2 lbs. dropped from 6               4.9
                                      inches.
Flammability.......................  V-1 or better..............  ..........  ASTM D 3801.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    6.1.3.4 Quality Policy Manual--Manufacturer shall submit its 
quality policy manual to the address listed in section 1.3.

7. Approval or Disapproval

    7.1 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.
    7.1.1 Disapproved Receptacles--Units 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.
    7.2 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.
    7.2.1 Approved Receptacles--Units that are approved will be 
retained by the USPS.
    7.2.2. Rescission--Manufacturer's production units shall be 
constructed in accordance with the USPS-certified drawings and the 
provisions of this specification and be of the same materials, 
construction, coating, workmanship, finish, etc., as the approved 
units. 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 receptacle model is not in 
compliance with this standard or is out of conformance with approved 
drawings, the USPS may, at its discretion, rescind approval of the 
receptacle as follows:
    7.2.2.1 Written Notification--The USPS shall provide written 
notification to the manufacturer that a receptacle is not in compliance 
with this standard or

[[Page 53820]]

is out of conformance with approved drawings. This notification shall 
include the specific reasons that the unit is noncompliant or out of 
conformance and shall be sent via Registered MailTM.
    7.2.2.1.1 Health and Safety--If the USPS determines that the 
noncompliance or nonconformity constitutes a danger to the health or 
safety of customers and/or letter carriers, the USPS may, at its 
discretion, immediately rescind approval of the unit. In addition, the 
USPS may, at its discretion, order that production of the receptacle 
cease immediately, and that any existing inventory not be sold for 
receipt of U.S. mail.
    7.2.2.2 Manufacturer's Response--In all cases of noncompliance or 
nonconformity other than those determined to constitute a danger to the 
health or safety of customers and/or letter carriers, the manufacturer 
shall confer with the USPS and shall submit one sample of a corrected 
receptacle to the USPS for approval no later than 45 calendar days 
after receipt of the notification described in 7.2.2.1. Failure to 
confer or submit a corrected receptacle within the prescribed period 
shall constitute grounds for immediate rescission.
    7.2.2.3 Second Written Notification--The USPS shall respond to the 
manufacturer in writing, via Registered MailTM, no later 
than 30 calendar days after receipt of the corrected receptacle with a 
determination of whether the manufacturer's submission is accepted or 
rejected and with specific reasons for the determination.
    7.2.2.4 Manufacturer's Second Response--If the USPS rejects the 
corrected receptacle, the manufacturer may submit a second sample of 
the corrected receptacle to the USPS for approval no later than 45 
calendar days after receipt of the notification described in 7.2.2.3. 
Failure to confer or submit a corrected receptacle within the 
prescribed period shall constitute grounds for immediate rescission.
    7.2.2.5 Final USPS Rescission Notification--The USPS shall provide 
a final response to the manufacturer in writing no later than 30 
calendar days after receipt of the second sample corrected receptacle 
with a determination of whether the manufacturer's submission is 
accepted or rejected and with specific reasons for the determination. 
If the second submission is rejected, the USPS may, at its discretion, 
rescind approval of the receptacle. In addition, the USPS may, at its 
discretion, order that production of the receptacle cease immediately, 
and that any existing inventory not be sold or used for receipt of U.S. 
mail. If the USPS rescinds approval, the manufacturer is not prohibited 
from applying for a new approval pursuant to the provisions of section 
6.
    7.2.3 Revisions, Product or Drawings--Changes that affect the form, 
fit, and/or function (i.e., dimensions, material, finish, etc.) of 
approved products or drawings shall not be made without written USPS 
approval. 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.
    7.2.3.1 Corporate or Organizational Changes--If any substantive 
part of the approved manufacturer's structure changes from what existed 
when the manufacturer became approved, the manufacturer shall promptly 
notify the USPS and will be subject to a reevaluation of their approved 
product(s) and/or quality system. Examples of substantive structural 
changes include the following: change in ownership, executive or 
quality management; major change in quality policy or procedures; 
relocation of manufacturing facilities; major equipment or 
manufacturing process change (e.g., outsourcing vs. inplant 
fabrication); etc. Notification of such changes must be sent to the 
address in section 1.3.
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P

[[Page 53821]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.004


[[Page 53822]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.005


[[Page 53823]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.006


[[Page 53824]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.007


[[Page 53825]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.008


[[Page 53826]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.009


[[Page 53827]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.010


[[Page 53828]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.011


[[Page 53829]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.012


[[Page 53830]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.013


[[Page 53831]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.014


[[Page 53832]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.015


[[Page 53833]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.016


[[Page 53834]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03SE04.017

BILLING CODE 7710-12-C

Appendix A

USPS Approved Independent Test Laboratories

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

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


    The Postal Service will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR 
111.3 to reflect these changes.

Stanley F. Mires,
Chief Counsel, Legislative.
[FR Doc. 04-19781 Filed 9-2-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P