Description
This communication serves to notify contractors that the FEMA Administrator issued the FEMA Forward Framework on June 5, 2020. The framework is a set of guidelines developed to transition the Agency through the COVID-19 pandemic. It requires decision-makers to consider criteria set forth by Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Department of Homeland Security, and other governing authorities to facilitate the return of personnel to FEMA physical facilities. The earliest individuals will start to re-populate FEMA’s physical facilities is June 15, 2020, based on the approach outlined in the framework. During Phase 1, occupancy is limited to 25%, inclusive of FEMA and contractor employees. The framework has three-phases; the earliest date that phases 1, 2, and 3 can begin are June 15th, July 15th, and August 15th, respectively. Before entering each phase, the framework considers external factors, such as state, county, and local stay-at-home orders; local school systems, daycare, and dependent care facilities closures; public transportation; and other factors unique to a locality. Collaboration from everyone reporting to an onsite location is crucial, to include FEMA Contractors. Consistent with FEMA Forward , FEMA contractors are required to: Seek written approval from the relevant Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) or Contracting Officer prior to accessing any FEMA physical facility. Comply with COVID-19 mitigation measures when accessing FEMA facilities, as outlined in FEMA Forward, including: Enhanced screening protocol to include temperature checks; Desk space reservation by contacting the designated COR to assist in making the seat reservation on the part of the contractor employee; Social distancing protocol adherence, to include a minimum of 6 feet for workspaces and common areas; and Use of cloth face coverings in common areas including entrances, elevators, kitchens, bathrooms, and conference rooms. Contractor employees are permitted to bring their own face coverings; FEMA can provide face coverings upon request. This communication does not modify the terms and conditions of any FEMA contract. If you have questions, please contact your COR or Contracting Officer.