A suspicious package was found and opened inside the UPMC Mercy Pavilion, prompting a police response on Wednesday morning.

Around 9 a.m., the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire and hazmat teams responded to the building after receiving reports of a suspicious package found inside an office.

Police say an employee opened the package, discovering a powdery substance and subsequently notified 911.

People were sheltered in place, and hazmat crews had people on the first and fifth floors evacuated.  

"We cordoned off the areas, and we were able to close doors and keep people in place until we evaluated if there was a further problem," Assistant Fire Chief Mathew Davis said.

Several agencies were investigating the substance. They say it only took them about five minutes to figure it out.

Crews quickly determined the powder was flour.

"Once we made it into the room, the rooms that had the substance, we were able to identify within five minutes. They were quick with their research," Assistant Chief Davis said.

According to Assistant Chief Davis, at no point was Mercy's emergency room impacted. One person has been transported to the hospital for further evaluation. Two others were evaluated at the scene, police said.  

He stressed how we must all take precautions.

"If you were to open up a package or letter that has any type of substance, don't touch it. Call 911 immediately," he added.

He said that training and collaboration between agencies kept this situation safe.

UPMC says in a statement that they were up and back to normal operations by late morning.

"We prepare for the worst and hope for the best at all times. Everything went seamlessly and smoothly today. All the bureaus worked together great."

At this point, no word on any charges anyone would be facing. UPMC police are investigating.

Editor's note: A previous version of this story described the incident taking place inside UPMC Mercy Hospital.