While many employers and agencies are making major adjustments in the wake of COVID-19 (aka coronavirus), OFCCP will conduct compliance reviews and mostly be business as usual. The agency wants job seekers, applicants, employers, and employees to know it will follow health guidelines while ensuring activities pursuant to its mission of equal employment opportunity.
OFCCP will continue performing focused reviews, compliance reviews (audits), and investigations into complaints. However, instead of physical on-site visits, the agency will conduct these evaluations and interviews through alternate means. Contractors and their employees will be contacted by phone and through remote options such as WebEx and Skype.
Should employees have trouble being accessible for conversations and reviews due to the pandemic, OFCCP will try to remain flexible. This would include additional ways of coordinating efforts and providing “reasonable extensions where needed.”
OFCCP stresses that if complainants or employers need information about their open investigations or evaluations, they should connect with the local OFCCP contact in their area.
Additionally, OFCCP’s focus on contractor and worker assistance will be ongoing. You can find resources and other helpful insight on OFCCP’s website, the Help Desk, and Contractor Assistance Portal. However, walk-ins will not be permitted at local offices indefinitely.
Updates will be provided on a consistent on a basis as more information breaks on the COVID-19 pandemic. For further assistance, you can reach the Help Desk at 1-800-397-6251. You may also ask a question online on the DOL website.
If you are searching for more clarification on your requirements as a federal contractor or subcontractor – or if you need help fulfilling your OFCCP obligations – feel free to visit LocalJobNetwork for OFCCP solutions.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on Circaworks.com. In April of 2023, Mitratech acquired Circa, a leading provider of inclusive recruiting & OFCCP compliance software. The content has since been updated to reflect our expanded product offerings, evolving talent acquisition compliance regulations, and best practices in HR management.
