Survey of Food Safety and Inspection Service Inspectors' Perceptions of COVID-19 Safety (June 2021)
Summary
USDA Office of Inspector General OAI Report 21-001-01, Survey of Food Safety and Inspection Service Inspectors' Perceptions of COVID-19 Safety in the Work Environment, dated June 2021, with a transmittal memo dated June 2, 2021 to Paul Kiecker, Administrator of the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The report states that OIG began a pulse survey on February 22, 2021 consisting of 52 questions sent to 7,065 FSIS inspectors, that participation was voluntary and responses anonymous, and that the survey closed on March 5, 2021. It states that there was a 39 percent response rate. The report presents the survey results, a questionnaire and response frequency tables, and includes the FSIS written response.
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“Survey of Food Safety and Inspection Service Inspectors' Perceptions of COVID-19 Safety (June 2021).”
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United States Department of Agriculture
Survey of Food Safety and Inspection
Service Inspectors’ Perceptions of
COVID-19 Safety in the Work Environment
OAI Report 21-001-01
June 2021
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Transmittal
Memo EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
DATE: June 2, 2021
PRODUCT
BACKGROUND
NUMBER: 21-001
TO: Paul Kiecker
AND OBJECTIVE
Administrator
Food Safety and Inspection Service
ATTN: Cara LeConte
Chief Financial Officer
PULSE SURVEY
Food Safety and Inspection Service
FROM: Virginia E. Banner Rone
RESULTS
Assistant Inspector General for Analytics and Innovation
SUBJECT: Survey of Food Safety and Inspection Service Inspectors’ Perceptions of
COVID-19 Safety in the Work Environment
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
This product presents the results of the Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) February – March
2021 pulse survey of Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) inspectors to obtain information
about how FSIS frontline inspectors perceive coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) safety in
their work environments. The survey consisted of 52 questions and was distributed by OIG
to 7,065 FSIS inspectors. The survey remained open for 2 weeks and there was a 39 percent
response rate.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
The product contains OIG’s presentation of the survey results. FSIS’ written response to the
draft is included in its entirety at the end of the product. OIG applied the established Office of
Analytics and Innovation quality assurance standards to ensure the information presented in this
product is adequately supported.
We appreciate the courtesies and cooperation extended to us by members of your staff during the
survey development and execution process. The product contains publicly available information
and will be posted in its entirety to our website (http:///www.usda.gov/oig) in the near future.
Attachment AGENCY
RESPONSE
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
Executive Summary. ................................................................................................................................................1
Background and Objective...................................................................................................................................2
Pulse Survey Results..................................................................................................................................................4 BACKGROUND
AND OBJECTIVE
Respondents’ Demographics. ...........................................................................................................................4
FSIS Inspectors’ Perceptions of COVID-19 Illness’ Impact at Their Assigned Establishments...................5
FSIS Inspectors’ Perceptions of Safety in the Work Environment Before the COVID-19 Pandemic.......6
PULSE SURVEY
FSIS Inspectors’ Perceptions of Safety in the Current Work Environment. ..................................................7
Comparing FSIS Inspectors’ Perceptions of Safety in the Work Environment Before Pandemic RESULTS
Versus Current........................................................................................................................................................8
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
FSIS Inspectors’ Comments About FSIS’ Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic . ....................................9
Scope and Methodology.....................................................................................................................................10
Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire ...................................................................................................................13
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Appendix B: Response Frequency Tables for Each Survey Question ........................................................ 35
Acronyms and Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................ 48
Agency Response ................................................................................................................................................ 49
AGENCY
RESPONSE
1 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Executive Summary
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
The U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA), Office of Inspector General
(OIG) conducted a pulse survey of Food
BACKGROUND
Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
inspectors to obtain information about
how FSIS frontline inspectors perceive
AND OBJECTIVE
coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
safety in their work environments.
On February 22, 2021, OIG began the
PULSE SURVEY
COVID-19 safety survey, which consisted
of 52 questions and was sent by OIG to
RESULTS
7,065 FSIS inspectors. Participation in
the survey was completely voluntary, and
responses were anonymous. The survey
closed on March 5, 2021. This report
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
presents the results of the survey.
Figure 1 provides an overview of the
inspectors’ responses to the survey.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Figure 1. Overview of Survey Responses
In this report, the terms, acronyms, and phrases “PE” and “personal protective equipment” (or “PPE”) are used interchangeably. AGENCY
1
2
This is the highest rate for responses not significantly restricted by skip logic, i.e., for responses attributable to the population, and not a subset, of respondents.
RESPONSE
2 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Background and Objective
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
In December 2019, a novel (new)
coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2 was
first detected in the People’s Republic of
BACKGROUND
China, causing outbreaks of COVID-19
that spread globally. On March 11,
2020, the World Health Organization
AND OBJECTIVE
announced the COVID-19 outbreak could
be characterized as a pandemic, as the
rates of infection continued to rise around
the world, including the United States.
PULSE SURVEY
The President of the United States
declared that the COVID-19 outbreak in
RESULTS
the United States constituted a national
emergency, beginning March 1, 2020.3
Multiple outbreaks of COVID-19 among
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
meat and poultry processing facility
workers occurred in the United States
which led the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) of the
Department of Health and Human
Services and the Occupational Safety
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
and Health Administration (OSHA) of
the Department of Labor to issue interim
guidance on April 26, 2020, specifically
for meat and poultry processing workers
Figure 2. Geographic Distribution of Elements
Proclamation 9994 of March 13, 2020 (Declaring a National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Outbreak), 85 Fed. Reg. 15337 AGENCY
3
(Mar. 18, 2020).
RESPONSE
3 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
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Background and Objective, continued
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
and employers.4 This guidance varied According to a CDC report released on
from the guidance given to the general July 7, 2020, at least 17,358 COVID-19
public because the facilities were cases and 91 COVID-19-related deaths
BACKGROUND
considered critical infrastructure. had occurred among U.S. meat and
poultry processing workers through
FSIS, the public health regulatory May 31, 2020. Among 14 States
AND OBJECTIVE
agency within USDA, is authorized to reporting the total number of workers
inspect all meat and poultry products in affected meat and poultry processing
sold through interstate commerce to facilities (112,616), COVID-19 was
ensure that U.S. food safety standards diagnosed in 9.1 percent of workers; the
PULSE SURVEY
are met and that the animals are fit for percentage of workers with COVID-19
human consumption. To accomplish this, ranged from 3.1 percent to 24.5 percent
FSIS employs about 8,700 employees. per facility.5
FSIS inspection personnel are RESULTS
responsible for monitoring, inspecting, USDA OIG’s Office of Analytics and
verifying, and enforcing regulations on Innovation (OAI) conducted the pulse
meat, poultry, and egg products in over survey presented in this report to gain
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
6,000 establishments (see Figure 2 on insight into FSIS inspectors’ perceptions
previous page). While FSIS inspectors of COVID-19 safety in their work
work in the establishments, they are environments. OAI coordinated the
not establishment employees nor are survey work with USDA OIG auditors
they considered to be “meat and poultry who are conducting a related inspection;6
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
processing workers.” however, the survey was conducted
independent of the inspection.
4
Meat and Poultry Processing Workers and Employers Interim Guidance from CDC and OSHA, published April 26, 2020.
Waltenburg MA, Victoroff T, Rose CE, et al. Update: COVID-19 Among Workers in Meat and Poultry Processing Facilities―United States, April–May 2020.
5
MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69:887-892. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6927e2.
6
The ongoing OIG inspection is related to actions FSIS took relating to COVID-19 to ensure the continuation of inspection operations at meat and poultry slaughter
and processing establishments. The inspection also includes how FSIS utilized $33 million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act
funding. As part of the inspection, OIG will be examining actions related to the health and safety of FSIS inspectors working at official establishments, continuity
of operations, and sufficiency of resources to implement health and safety standards. AGENCY
RESPONSE
4 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Pulse Survey Results
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
On February 22, 2021, OIG emailed
an invitation to the online COVID-19
safety survey to all inspectors
BACKGROUND
identified by FSIS. The survey, which
included 52 questions,7 closed on
March 5, 2021. Of the 7,065 employees
AND OBJECTIVE
invited to participate in the survey,
2,773 (39 percent) responded.
The survey questionnaire is in
PULSE SURVEY
Appendix A. The response frequency
tables for each survey question are in
RESULTS
Appendix B.
Respondents’ Demographics
The survey questionnaire led off with
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
eight introductory questions to gather
the respondents’ basic demographic data.
The respondents collectively reported
they currently work in all 50 States, as
well as the District of Columbia, Guam,
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
Figure 3 presents a high-level summary
of other respondent demographics.
7
The survey consisted of 23 numbered questions
or statements, some with multiple parts. In total,
there were 52 questions or statements for response,
hereinafter referred to as “questions.”
AGENCY
Figure 3. Highlights of Respondent Demographics
RESPONSE
5 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Survey Results, continued
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
FSIS Inspectors’
Perceptions of COVID-19
BACKGROUND
Illness’ Impact at Their
Assigned Establishments
A round of six survey questions asked AND OBJECTIVE
respondents about the impact of
COVID-19 illness on their assigned
PULSE SURVEY
establishments’ operations. This round
of questions provides a broader view of
inspectors’ experiences with COVID-19
illness in the workplace and their RESULTS
perceptions of its impact, as shown in
Figure 4.
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Figure 4. Impact of COVID-19 Illness at Inspectors’ Establishments AGENCY
RESPONSE
6 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Survey Results, continued
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
FSIS Inspectors’ Perceptions
Responses to 8 of the 9 questions of Safety in the Work
Environment Before the
BACKGROUND
about working conditions and safety
before the pandemic were greater COVID-19 Pandemic
than 50% in the positive (“Agree”); for
AND OBJECTIVE
The third section of the survey included
the 9th question, shown in Figure 5, nine questions about working conditions
48% “Agree.” and safety before the onset of the
COVID-19 pandemic. The questions in this
section were a means to establish a baseline
PULSE SURVEY
of inspectors’ perceptions of safety in their
work environments.
The majority (greater than 50 percent) of RESULTS
[Before the pandemic] FSIS was responses to each question in this section
were in the positive (“agree”), with the
APPENDICES
responsive to safety concerns
SCOPE AND
exception of responses for one question:
raised at work. Figure 5 shows 48 percent (less than the
majority) of respondents reported they
agree FSIS was responsive to safety
concerns raised at work, prior to the
pandemic.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Six of the questions in this section
parallel questions in a later section of
the survey relating to the inspectors’
current perceptions of safety in the work
Note: Percentages do not total 100 percent, due to rounding. environment (at the time of the survey).
See Figure 7 for a comparison of inspectors’
Figure 5. Responses to “FSIS was responsive to safety concerns sentiments about workplace safety
raised at work” pre-pandemic and in the current AGENCY
environment.
RESPONSE
7 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Survey Results, continued
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
FSIS Inspectors’ Perceptions workplace safety in the ongoing Six of the questions in this section
COVID-19 pandemic. parallel those asked in an earlier
of Safety in the Current
section of the survey relating to the
Work Environment
BACKGROUND
The majority (greater than 50 percent) of inspectors’ perceptions of safety in the
The fourth section of the survey focused responses to each question in this section work environment before the COVID-19
were in the positive (generally, “agree”). pandemic. See Figure 7 for a comparison
AND OBJECTIVE
on inspectors’ perceptions of safety
in their current work environments. Figure 6 shows three questions with high of inspectors’ sentiments about workplace
The 28 questions in this section were percentages of “agree” responses and safety pre-pandemic and in the current
designed to record the current pulse of three questions with high percentages of environment.
the inspectors’ sentiments regarding “disagree” responses.
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
Figure 6. Current Perceptions—Questions with High Percentages of “Agree” and “Disagree”
RESPONSE
8 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Survey Results, continued
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
Comparing FSIS Inspectors’ the survey was administered (about in the “Greatest Change” column. For
February 22, 2021). Each question three questions, the greatest change was
Perceptions of Safety in the
was posed on a three-point Likert scale an increase in the percentage of “agree”
BACKGROUND
Work Environment Before (ranging from “agree,” to “neutral,” to (positive) responses; for one question, the
Pandemic Versus Current “disagree”). greatest change was an increase in the
percentage of “neutral” responses; and for
AND OBJECTIVE
Six questions relating to workplace safety Figure 7 shows the six questions two questions, the greatest change was
were posed twice within the survey—first with their corresponding “before” and a decrease in the percentage of “agree”
asking about inspectors’ perceptions “current” responses. For each question, responses.
before the pandemic (about the answer with the greatest change
PULSE SURVEY
March 1, 2020), then asking about from “before” to “current” is called out
their current perceptions at the time
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
72%
reported COVID-19 was
the cause for those who
do not currently feel safe
AGENCY
Figure 7. Comparison of Inspectors’ Sentiments About Workplace Safety Pre-Pandemic and in the Current Environment
RESPONSE
9 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Survey Results, continued
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
FSIS Inspectors’ Comments
About FSIS’ Response to the
COVID-19 Pandemic
A final, open-ended survey question BACKGROUND
AND OBJECTIVE
permitted a text response by survey
respondents. This question gave
respondents an opportunity to express
any other thoughts or opinions not
captured in the questions. There were
PULSE SURVEY
1,018 viable comments collected from this
question, with an average word count
RESULTS
of 85.8
Words and phrases frequently used in
the comments were tabulated and used
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
to create five groupings: equipment,
environment, communication, benefits,
and health/safety. Figure 8 shows key
themes underlying each group, based on
the inspectors’ comments.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Figure 8. Key Themes Expressed by Inspectors in Responses to the Open-Ended
Question, Grouped by Topic
There were 1,213 responses to this question. We did not include 195 responses such as “No comments,” “N/A,” and “no” because we considered them AGENCY
8
inconsequential.
RESPONSE
10 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
Scope and Methodology
The intended recipients of this survey
were all FSIS inspectors. FSIS provided
OIG a list of FSIS inspection program
personnel, their email addresses,
and their FSIS districts. In addition,
OIG obtained a list of FSIS-regulated
establishments from FSIS’ website. The
online survey began on February 22,
2021, when OIG emailed the invitation
to all 7,065 inspectors identified by
FSIS. Participation in the survey was
completely voluntary, and responses were
anonymous.
The survey questionnaire included
52 questions in 5 sections:
¢ Respondent demographics.
(8 questions)
¢ Inspectors’ experiences with the
impact of COVID-19 illness at
their assigned establishments.
(6 questions)
¢ Inspectors’ perceptions of
workplace safety before the
COVID-19 pandemic (defined
as “about March 1, 2020”).
(9 questions)
¢ Inspectors’ perceptions of current
workplace safety (during the
pandemic, at the time of the
survey). (28 questions)
¢ Inspectors’ comments about
FSIS’ response to the COVID-19
pandemic. (1 question)
See the survey questionnaire
in Appendix A.
The survey closed on March 5, 2021. Of
the 7,065 employees invited to participate
in the survey, 2,773 (39 percent)
responded, including 1,213 who provided
comments in response to the final, open-
ended question. See Appendix B for the
survey results.
Table 1 shows the numbers of
inspectors, and the survey response
rates, by FSIS district. The numbers of
FSIS inspectors per district are based
upon a list of each inspector’s district,
provided by FSIS; the numbers of
respondents per district are based upon
the survey respondents’ answers to
survey question 5, “In which district do
you work?”®
Leveraging the list of FSIS-regulated
establishments from FSIS’ website,
OIG used geographic information system
mapping software to produce the map of
establishments shown in Figure 2.
thn Number of FSIS Number of Response
eS Pte. Inspectors Respondents Rate
Alameda, California (District 05) 484 172 35.54%
Denver, Colorado (District 15) 776 267 34.41%
Des Moines, lowa (District 25) 84] 306 36.39%
Springdale, Arkansas (District 35) 737 260 35.28%
Dallas, Texas (District 40) 726 325 44.77%
Chicago, Illinois (District 50) 524 201 38.36%
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (District 60) 526 307 58.37%
Raleigh, North Carolina (District 80) 869 310 35.67%
Atlanta, Georgia (District 85) 731 226 30.92%
Jackson, Mississippi (District 90) 85] 305 35.84%
Total 7,065 2,679
Table 1. Numbers of Inspectors and Response Rates by
® Forty-three (43) respondents chose “Prefer not to answer,” and 51 skipped the question.
District
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11 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Scope and Methodology, continued
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
Survey Approach an answer, none of the questions who answered one or both of the
required an answer; respondents were corresponding survey questions.12 (The
Survey respondents who self-reported allowed to skip questions (i.e., linearly individual survey responses are not
BACKGROUND
they were not currently employed as continue the survey without answering included in this report, in order to protect
FSIS inspectors were immediately a question) by clicking “Next” on each the anonymity of respondents.)
disqualified from taking the survey.10 page. Additionally, respondents were
AND OBJECTIVE
offered a “Prefer not to answer” option on For the open-ended survey question, we
The survey questionnaire itself contained questions that were not asked on a Likert performed a three-step content analysis
skip logic, meaning respondents scale. on the responses to summarize key
received only those questions relevant ideas. First, we identified and removed
PULSE SURVEY
to them, based on their responses 195 comments such as “No comments,”
to earlier questions. For example,
Treatment of the Question
“N/A,” and “no,” and variations on those
Responses
RESULTS
respondents did not receive questions themes; there remained 1,018 viable
concerning shutdown of their assigned With the exception of the responses to the responses for review. In the second
establishment(s) due to a COVID-19 open-ended final question, OIG presents step, analysts tabulated words and
outbreak if they indicated in a previous in this report the responses to the phrases that were frequently used in
APPENDICES
question there had been no outbreak
SCOPE AND
survey without drawing any inferences the remaining 1,018 responses. This
of COVID-19 at their assigned or interpreting the results. In order to short list of frequently used words was
establishments. calculate the percentage of respondents leveraged to create five groupings:
who reported working in more than one equipment, environment, communication,
Many questions were asked on a type or size establishment, OIG leveraged benefits, and health/safety. Analysts
three-point Likert scale, in order to individual survey responses: OIG totaled then reviewed responses related to the
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
give respondents greater flexibility in the numbers of inspectors who reported frequently used words, consolidated key
responding.11 To promote the response they work at more than one type and/ themes that were expressed, and placed
rate and preclude respondents choosing or size of establishment and compared each theme into one of the five groupings.
to end the survey rather than give that to the number of inspectors
10
Those who attempted to participate in the survey, but specifically indicated they were “Other” than a food inspector, consumer safety inspector, frontline
supervisor, supervisory consumer safety inspector, or supervisory public health veterinarian were presented with a screen that thanked them for participating in
the survey, and the survey was terminated.
11
For example, respondents were asked about their level of agreement with the statement that “[before the COVID-19 pandemic] FSIS was responsive to safety
concerns raised at work.” Respondents were presented with a scale of possible answers as follows: Agree, Neutral, Disagree. AGENCY
12
See Survey Questions 7 and 8.
RESPONSE
12 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Scope and Methodology, continued
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
Views expressed in response to the
open-ended question may not be
representative of all FSIS employees
BACKGROUND
who participated in the survey. We did
not assess the merits of the individual
comments or suggestions provided in
AND OBJECTIVE
response to the open-ended survey
question.
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
13 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
The questionnaire’s “skip logic” is noted
below, with tables labeled “SKIP LOGIC
APPLIED.” Similarly, the questionnaire
BACKGROUND
includes tables that display the options
that were presented to respondents on
drop-down menus.
AND OBJECTIVE
Because we inserted the explanatory
tables into this questionnaire, its
pagination differs from the actual online
PULSE SURVEY
survey. The start of each online survey
page is indicated by the appearance of
RESULTS
the OIG logo in the upper left of the
image.
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
14 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
Instructions: If you choose not to answer a question, the survey will advance to
the next question.
BACKGROUND
1.What is your position at FSIS?
Food Inspector AND OBJECTIVE
Consumer Safety Inspector
PULSE SURVEY
Frontline Supervisor
RESULTS
Supervisory Consumer Safety Inspector
Supervisory Public Health Veterinarian
Other
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
Prefer not to answer
SKIP LOGIC APPLIED:
If answer is... Then skip to...
Food Inspector Question 2
Consumer Safety Inspector Question 2
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Frontline Supervisor Question 2
Supervisory Consumer Safety Inspector Question 2
Supervisory Public Health Veterinarian Question 2
Other End of survey
Prefer not to answer Question 2
AGENCY
RESPONSE
15 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
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EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
2. What is your GS grade?
AND OBJECTIVE
A drop-dow n menu offered the follow ing answers.
Prefer not to answer
Other
5
6
PULSE SURVEY
7
8
9
RESULTS
10
11
12
13
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
3. How long have you been in this position?
3 years or less
More than 3 years to 10 years
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
More than 10 years to 20 years
More than 20 years
Prefer not to answer
AGENCY
RESPONSE
16 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
4. How long have you been employed by FSIS? CONTENTS
3 years or less
EXECUTIVE
More than 3 years to 10 years
More than 10 years to 20 years
SUMMARY
More than 20 years
Prefer not to answer
BACKGROUND
AND OBJECTIVE
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
17 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
5. In which district do you work?
AND OBJECTIVE
A drop-down menu offered the following answers.
Alameda, CA (District 05)
Denver, CO (District 75)
Des Moines, IA (District 25)
Springdale, AR (District 35)
PULSE SURVEY
Dallas, TX (District 40)
Chicago, IL (District 50)
Philadelphia, PA (District 60)
RESULTS
Raleigh, NC (District 80)
Atlanta, GA (District 85)
Jackson, MS (District 90)
Prefer not to answer
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
18 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
6. In what State or U.S. territory do you currently work? CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
A drop-down menu offered the following answers.
Prefer not to answer Montana
Alabama Nebraska
SUMMARY
Alaska Nevada
American Samoa New Hampshire
Arizona New Jersey
Arkansas New Mexico
California New York
BACKGROUND
Colorado North Carolina
Connecticut North Dakota
Delaware Northern Marianas Islands
AND OBJECTIVE
District of Columbia (DC) Ohio
Florida Oklahoma
Georgia Oregon
Guam Pennsylvania
Hawaii Puerto Rico
Idaho Rhode Island
PULSE SURVEY
Illinois South Carolina
Indiana South Dakota
Iowa Tennessee
RESULTS
Kansas Texas
Kentucky Utah
Louisiana Vermont
Maine Virginia
Maryland Virgin Islands
Massachusetts Washington
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
Michigan West Virginia
Minnesota Wisconsin
Mississippi Wyoming
Missouri
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
19 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
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7. At what type of establishment(s) do you work? (Select all that apply.)
Meat slaughter
EXECUTIVE
Poultry slaughter
SUMMARY
Processing
Egg products
BACKGROUND
Siluriformes fish
Import
AND OBJECTIVE
Export
Prefer not to answer
PULSE SURVEY
8. What size is the establishment(s) in which you work? (Select all that apply.)
RESULTS
Very small (Establishments with fewer than 10 employees)
Small (Establishments with 10 or more employees but fewer than 500 employees)
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
Large (Establishments with 500 or more employees)
Prefer not to answer
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
20 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
9. Have there been reports of COVID-19 illness among establishment workers
at any of your assigned establishments?
AND OBJECTIVE
Yes
No
Prefer not to answer
PULSE SURVEY
SKIP LOGIC APPLIED:
If answer is… Then skip to…
RESULTS
Yes Question 10
No Question 12
Prefer not to answer Question 10
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
21 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
10. Did the establishment(s) shut down due to COVID-19 illness or
BACKGROUND
quarantine among establishment workers?
AND OBJECTIVE
Yes
No
Prefer not to answer
PULSE SURVEY
SKIP LOGIC APPLIED:
If answer is… Then skip to…
RESULTS
Yes Question 11
No Question 12
Prefer not to answer Question 11
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
22 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
11. When your assigned establishment(s) shut down because of COVID-19
illnesses or quarantine, were you detailed to another establishment?
AND OBJECTIVE
Yes
No
Prefer not to answer
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
23 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
12. Were you ever required to take leave for health and safety issues related to
COVID-19? (For example, a positive diagnosis for COVID-19, exposure to
COVID-19 that required quarantine, reports of COVID-19 illness among
AND OBJECTIVE
establishment workers at your assigned establishment, etc.)
Yes
No
PULSE SURVEY
Prefer not to answer
RESULTS
SKIP LOGIC APPLIED:
If answer is… Then skip to…
Yes Question 13
No Question 14
Prefer not to answer Question 13
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
24 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
13. What type of leave was approved for your absence? (Select all that apply)
Administrative leave (e.g., weather and safety, emergency paid sick leave)
AND OBJECTIVE
Personal leave (e.g., sick leave, annual leave, leave without pay, compensatory time off,
etc.)
Prefer not to answer
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
25 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
14. Were you employed by FSIS before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic
(about March 1, 2020)?
AND OBJECTIVE
Yes
No
Prefer not to answer
PULSE SURVEY
SKIP LOGIC APPLIED:
If answer is… Then skip to…
Yes Question 15
RESULTS
No Question 17
Prefer not to answer Question 15
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
26 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
15. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements
regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE) available
to you BEFORE the COVID-19 pandemic.
AND OBJECTIVE
Agree Neutral Disagree
FSIS or the establishment provided
me the required PE.
PULSE SURVEY
FSIS or the establishment provided
PE adequate to protect me in my
work environment.
RESULTS
FSIS trained me in the proper use,
including the donning, doffing,
maintenance, and disposal, of PE
relevant to my job.
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
FSIS strictly enforced PE
requirements (i.e., FSIS did not
allow me to work without required
PE).
FSIS was responsive to safety
concerns raised at work.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
27 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
16. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements
regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE) available
to you BEFORE the COVID-19 pandemic.
AND OBJECTIVE
Agree Neutral Disagree
I could report safety concerns
without fear of reprisal or
repercussion.
PULSE SURVEY
I felt safe at work.
RESULTS
My immediate supervisor
demonstrated commitment to
employee safety.
FSIS demonstrated commitment to
APPENDICES
employee safety.
SCOPE AND
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
28 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
17. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements
BACKGROUND
regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE)
CURRENTLY available to you.
AND OBJECTIVE
Agree Neutral Disagree
My supervisor/FSIS ensures I am
aware of risks associated with
working during the COVID-19
pandemic.
FSIS timely implemented (COVID-19 PULSE SURVEY
pandemic-related) PE
RESULTS
requirements.
FSIS provides notice of changes to
PE requirements.
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
My supervisor/FSIS explains
changes to PE requirements to me.
My supervisor/FSIS explains how
changes to PE requirements aid in
preventing me from contracting a
COVID-19 infection.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
My supervisor/FSIS explains how
changes to PE requirements aid in
preventing the spread of COVID-19.
FSIS trains in the proper use,
including the donning, doffing,
maintenance, and disposal, of
current PE relevant to my job.
AGENCY
RESPONSE
29 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
18. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements
regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE)
CURRENTLY available to you.
AND OBJECTIVE
Agree Neutral Disagree
I understand the current FSIS PE
requirements.
PULSE SURVEY
FSIS' current PE requirements are
reasonably sufficient to protect me
from COVID-19 infection.
RESULTS
FSIS or the establishment
provides me the required PE.
FSIS reimburses me for my
APPENDICES
purchases of required PE.
SCOPE AND
FSIS strictly enforces PE
requirements (i.e., FSIS does not
allow me to work without required
PE).
FSIS or the establishment provides
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
PE of adequate quality to reduce
my risk of infection from COVID-19
in my work environment.
FSIS or the establishment provides
PE in sufficient quantities.
AGENCY
RESPONSE
30 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
19. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements regarding
working conditions and the protective equipment (PE) CURRENTLY available
to you.
Agree Neutral Disagree AND OBJECTIVE
FSIS informs me if I have come into
contact with workers confirmed to
PULSE SURVEY
have COVID-19.
My establishment informs me if I
RESULTS
have come into contact with
workers confirmed to have COVID-
19.
FSIS has informed me of the
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
process for reporting a positive
diagnosis for COVID-19.
FSIS or the establishment conducts
on site symptom assessment of
inspectors at my establishment (for
example temperature screening or
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
orally asks health-screening
questions concerning COVID-19).
I know who to inform if I develop
symptoms consistent with COVID-
19.
I know what actions to take if I
develop symptoms consistent with
COVID-19.
I can report pandemic-related
safety concerns without fear of AGENCY
RESPONSE
reprisal or repercussion.
31 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
20. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements regarding
working conditions and the protective equipment (PE) CURRENTLY available
to you.
AND OBJECTIVE
Agree Neutral Disagree
FSIS is responsive to pandemic-
related safety concerns raised at
work.
PULSE SURVEY
My immediate supervisor
demonstrates commitment to
RESULTS
employee safety.
FSIS demonstrates commitment to
employee safety.
APPENDICES
COVID-19 testing is available to me
SCOPE AND
at no cost if I am exposed at work.
FSIS encourages me to seek
guidance from my medical provider
regarding testing for COVID-19 if I
suspect I have been exposed.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
32 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
21. I feel safe at work. CONTENTS
Agree Neutral Disagree
SKIP LOGIC APPLIED:
EXECUTIVE
If answer is… Then skip to…
SUMMARY
Agree Question 23
Neutral Question 23
Disagree Question 22
BACKGROUND
AND OBJECTIVE
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
33 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
22. I do not feel safe at work, but COVID-19 is not the cause.
Agree Neutral Disagree
AND OBJECTIVE
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
34 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE
OIG Pulse Survey of FSIS Inspectors SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
23. If there is anything additional you would like to share concerning
FSIS' response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please enter comments
below.
AND OBJECTIVE
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Appendix B: Response Frequency Tables for
Each Survey Question EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
The following tables show the
respondents’ chosen answers, and
BACKGROUND
numbers and percentages of responses,
for each of the survey questions.
Percentages are rounded to two decimal
AND OBJECTIVE
places and may not sum to the total
shown.
To protect the anonymity of respondents,
PULSE SURVEY
the free-text responses to the final,
open-ended question are not included in
RESULTS
this report.
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
36 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q1. What is your position at FSIS?
CONTENTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Food Inspector 247 8.88%
Consumer Safety Inspector 1,989 71.55%
EXECUTIVE
Frontline Supervisor 60 2.16%
Supervisory Consumer Safety Inspector 95 3.42%
Supervisory Public Health Veterinarian 349 12.55% SUMMARY
Other 10 0.36%
Prefer not to answer 30 1.08%
Total Answered 2,780 100.00%
BACKGROUND
Answered 2,780 99.89%
Skipped 3 0.11%
AND OBJECTIVE
Total Surveyed 2,783 100.00%
NOTE: 10 respondents were filtered out of the remaining survey questions because the respondents indicated they held positions “Other” than
the targeted inspector positions.
PULSE SURVEY
Q2. What is your GS grade?
RESULTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Prefer not to answer 27 1.02%
Other 6 0.23%
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
5 53 2.00%
6 0 0.00%
7 205 7.74%
8 162 6.11%
9 1,592 60.08%
10 195 7.36%
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
11 11 0.42%
12 335 12.64%
13 64 2.42%
Total Answered 2,650 100.00%
Answered 2,650 95.56%
Skipped 123 4.44%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
AGENCY
RESPONSE
37 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q3. How long have you been in this position?
CONTENTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
3 years or less 991 36.00%
More than 3 years to 10 years 727 26.41%
More than 10 years to 20 years 661 24.01% EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
More than 20 years 330 11.99%
Prefer not to answer 44 1.60%
Total Answered 2,753 100.00%
Answered 2,753 99.28%
BACKGROUND
Skipped 20 0.72%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
AND OBJECTIVE
Q4. How long have you been employed by FSIS?
Answer Choices Responses Responses
PULSE SURVEY
(Number) (Percent)
3 years or less 312 11.32%
RESULTS
More than 3 years to 10 years 698 25.32%
More than 10 years to 20 years 878 31.85%
More than 20 years 837 30.36%
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
Prefer not to answer 32 1.16%
Total Answered 2,757 100.00%
Answered 2,757 99.42%
Skipped 16 0.58%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
38 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q5. In which district do you work?
CONTENTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Alameda, California (District 05) 172 6.32%
EXECUTIVE
Denver, Colorado (District 15) 267 9.81%
Des Moines, Iowa (District 25) 306 11.24%
SUMMARY
Springdale, Arkansas (District 35) 260 9.55%
Dallas, Texas (District 40) 325 11.94%
Chicago, Illinois (District 50) 201 7.38%
BACKGROUND
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (District 60) 307 11.28%
Raleigh, North Carolina (District 80) 310 11.39%
Atlanta, Georgia (District 85) 226 8.30%
AND OBJECTIVE
Jackson, Mississippi (District 90) 305 11.20%
Prefer not to answer 43 1.58%
Total Answered 2,722 100.00%
Answered 2,722 98.16%
PULSE SURVEY
Skipped 51 1.84%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
39 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q6. In what State or U.S. territory do you currently work?
Q6, continued. In what State or U.S. territory do you currently work? CONTENTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent) Answer Choices Responses Responses
Prefer not to answer 66 2.44% (Number) (Percent)
Alabama 95 3.51% Nevada 4 0.15%
Alaska 6 0.22% New Hampshire 6 0.22% EXECUTIVE
American Samoa 0 0.00% New Jersey 55 2.03%
Arizona 10 0.37% New Mexico 7 0.26% SUMMARY
Arkansas 118 4.36% New York 86 3.18%
California 158 5.84% North Carolina 110 4.07%
BACKGROUND
Colorado 40 1.48% North Dakota 9 0.33%
Connecticut 12 0.44% Northern Marianas Islands 0 0.00%
Delaware 41 1.52% Ohio 53 1.96%
AND OBJECTIVE
District of Columbia (DC) 2 0.07% Oklahoma 38 1.40%
Florida 54 2.00% Oregon 21 0.78%
Georgia 129 4.77% Pennsylvania 154 5.69%
Guam 1 0.04% Puerto Rico 11 0.41%
PULSE SURVEY
Hawaii 14 0.52% Rhode Island 4 0.15%
Idaho 17 0.63% South Carolina 31 1.15%
RESULTS
Illinois 57 2.11% South Dakota 38 1.40%
Indiana 50 1.85% Tennessee 56 2.07%
Iowa 90 3.33% Texas 233 8.61%
Kansas 45 1.66% Utah 16 0.59%
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
Kentucky 63 2.33% Vermont 7 0.26%
Louisiana 43 1.59% Virginia 56 2.07%
Maine 9 0.33% Virgin Islands 1 0.04%
Maryland 28 1.03% Washington 48 1.77%
Massachusetts 21 0.78% West Virginia 13 0.48%
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Michigan 39 1.44% Wisconsin 86 3.18%
Minnesota 77 2.85% Wyoming 3 0.11%
Mississippi 85 3.14% Total Answered 2,706 100.00%
Missouri 94 3.47% Answered 2,706 97.58%
Montana 6 0.22% Skipped 67 2.42%
Nebraska 90 3.33% Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
AGENCY
RESPONSE
40 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q7. At what type of establishment(s) do you work? (Select all that apply.)
CONTENTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Prefer not to answer 54 1.96%
Meat slaughter 1,177 42.82%
EXECUTIVE
Poultry slaughter 1,277 46.45%
Processing 1,604 58.35%
Egg products 166 6.04% SUMMARY
Siluriformes fish 86 3.13%
Import 123 4.47%
BACKGROUND
Export 620 22.55%
Total Answered 5,107 185.78%
Answered 2,749 99.13%
AND OBJECTIVE
Skipped 24 0.87%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
NOTE: Total answered exceeds 100 percent because some respondents selected more than one answer.
PULSE SURVEY
Q8. What size is the establishment(s) in which you work? (Select all that apply.)
RESULTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Prefer not to answer 80 2.92%
Very small (Establishments with fewer than
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
10 employees) 760 27.70%
Small (Establishments with 10 or more employees
but fewer than 500 employees) 1,447 52.73%
Large (Establishments with 500 or more
employees) 1,530 55.76%
Total Answered 3,817 139.10%
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Answered 2,744 98.95%
Skipped 29 1.05%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
NOTE: Total answered exceeds 100 percent because some respondents selected more than one answer.
AGENCY
RESPONSE
41 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q9. Have there been reports of COVID-19 illness among establishment workers at any of your assigned establishments?
CONTENTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Yes 2,449 89.22%
No 221 8.05%
EXECUTIVE
Prefer not to answer 75 2.73%
Total Answered 2,745 100.00%
Answered 2,745 98.99% SUMMARY
Skipped 28 1.01%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
Q10. Did the establishment(s) shut down due to COVID-19 illness or quarantine among establishment workers? BACKGROUND
AND OBJECTIVE
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Yes 620 25.31%
No 1,764 72.00%
PULSE SURVEY
Prefer not to answer 66 2.69%
Total Answered 2,450 100.00%
RESULTS
Answered 2,450 88.35%
Skipped 323 11.65%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
Q11. When your assigned establishment(s) shut down because of COVID-19 illnesses or quarantine, were you detailed to another
establishment?
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
Yes 169 26.45%
No 430 67.29%
Prefer not to answer 40 6.26%
Total Answered 639 100.00%
Answered 639 23.04%
Skipped 2,134 76.96%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
AGENCY
RESPONSE
42 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q12. Were you ever required to take leave for health and safety issues related to COVID‐19? (For example, a positive diagnosis for COVID‐19,
exposure to COVID‐19 that required quarantine, reports of COVID‐19 illness among establishment workers at your assigned establishment, etc.) CONTENTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Yes 776 28.39%
No 1,870 68.42% EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
Prefer not to answer 87 3.18%
Total Answered 2,733 100.00%
Answered 2,733 98.56%
Skipped 40 1.44%
BACKGROUND
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
AND OBJECTIVE
Q13. What type of leave was approved for your absence? (Select all that apply.)
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
PULSE SURVEY
Prefer not to answer 26 3.34%
Administrative leave (e.g., weather and safety,
RESULTS
emergency paid sick leave) 504 64.78%
Personal leave (e.g., sick leave, annual leave,
leave without pay, compensatory time off, etc.) 370 47.56%
APPENDICES
Total Answered 900 115.68%
SCOPE AND
Answered 778 28.06%
Skipped 1,995 71.94%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
NOTE: Total answered exceeds 100 percent because some respondents selected more than one answer.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
43 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q14. Were you employed by FSIS before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (about March 1, 2020)?
CONTENTS
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Yes 2,538 93.07%
No 162 5.94%
EXECUTIVE
Prefer not to answer 27 0.99%
Total Answered 2,727 100.00%
Answered 2,727 98.34% SUMMARY
Skipped 46 1.66%
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
Q15. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE) BACKGROUND
available to you BEFORE the COVID-19 pandemic.
Answer Choices Agree
Responses
Agree
Responses
Neutral
Responses
Neutral
Responses
Disagree
Responses
Disagree
Responses
Total
Answered
Total
Answered
Answered
(Number)
Answered
(Percent)
Skipped
(Number)
Skipped
(Percent)
Total
Surveyed
Total
Surveyed AND OBJECTIVE
(Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent)
FSIS or the establishment
provided me the required PE. 1,769 70.34% 320 12.72% 426 16.94% 2,515 100.00% 2,515 90.70% 258 9.30% 2,773 100.00%
PULSE SURVEY
FSIS or the establishment
provided PE adequate to protect
me in my work environment. 1,666 66.32% 400 15.92% 446 17.75% 2,512 100.00% 2,512 90.59% 261 9.41% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS trained me in the proper
RESULTS
use, including the donning,
doffing, maintenance, and
disposal, of PE relevant to my
job. 1,386 55.13% 557 22.16% 571 22.71% 2,514 100.00% 2,514 90.66% 259 9.34% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS strictly enforced PE
requirements (i.e., FSIS did not
APPENDICES
allow me to work without
SCOPE AND
required PE). 1,472 58.60% 593 23.61% 447 17.79% 2,512 100.00% 2,512 90.59% 261 9.41% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS was responsive to safety
concerns raised at work. 1,197 47.65% 745 29.66% 570 22.69% 2,512 100.00% 2,512 90.59% 261 9.41% 2,773 100.00%
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
44 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q16. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE)
available to you BEFORE the COVID-19 pandemic. CONTENTS
Answer Choices Agree Agree Neutral Neutral Disagree Disagree Total Total Answered Answered Skipped Skipped Total Total
Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Answered Answered (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) Surveyed Surveyed
(Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent)
I could report safety concerns
without fear of reprisal or
EXECUTIVE
repercussion. 1,852 73.76% 456 18.16% 203 8.08% 2,511 100.00% 2,511 90.55% 262 9.45% 2,773 100.00%
I felt safe at work. 1,442 58.45% 601 24.36% 424 17.19% 2,467 100.00% 2,467 88.97% 306 11.03% 2,773 100.00%
My immediate supervisor
SUMMARY
demonstrated commitment to
employee safety. 1,826 72.89% 479 19.12% 200 7.98% 2,505 100.00% 2,505 90.34% 268 9.66% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS demonstrated commitment
to employee safety. 1,385 55.29% 691 27.58% 429 17.13% 2,505 100.00% 2,505 90.34% 268 9.66% 2,773 100.00%
BACKGROUND
Q17. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE)
CURRENTLY available to you.
AND OBJECTIVE
Answer Choices Agree Agree Neutral Neutral Disagree Disagree Total Total Answered Answered Skipped Skipped Total Total
Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Answered Answered (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) Surveyed Surveyed
(Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent)
My supervisor/FSIS ensures I am
aware of risks associated with
working during the COVID-19
PULSE SURVEY
pandemic. 1,934 72.00% 489 18.21% 263 9.79% 2,686 100.00% 2,686 96.86% 87 3.14% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS timely implemented
(COVID-19 pandemic-related) PE
requirements. 1,162 43.25% 623 23.19% 902 33.57% 2,687 100.00% 2,687 96.90% 86 3.10% 2,773 100.00%
RESULTS
FSIS provides me notice of
changes to PE requirements. 1,911 71.44% 578 21.61% 186 6.95% 2,675 100.00% 2,675 96.47% 98 3.53% 2,773 100.00%
My supervisor/FSIS explains
changes to PE requirements to
me. 1,885 70.52% 543 20.31% 245 9.17% 2,673 100.00% 2,673 96.39% 100 3.61% 2,773 100.00%
My supervisor/FSIS explains how
changes to PE requirements aid
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
in preventing me from
contracting a COVID-19
infection. 1,621 60.53% 671 25.06% 386 14.41% 2,678 100.00% 2,678 96.57% 95 3.43% 2,773 100.00%
My supervisor/FSIS explains how
changes to PE requirements aid
in preventing the spread of
COVID-19. 1,635 61.03% 673 25.12% 371 13.85% 2,679 100.00% 2,679 96.61% 94 3.39% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS trains me in the proper use,
including the donning, doffing,
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
maintenance, and disposal, of
current PE relevant to my job. 1,393 52.04% 732 27.34% 552 20.62% 2,677 100.00% 2,677 96.54% 96 3.46% 2,773 100.00%
AGENCY
RESPONSE
45 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q18. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE)
CURRENTLY available to you. CONTENTS
Answer Choices Agree Agree Neutral Neutral Disagree Disagree Total Total Answered Answered Skipped Skipped Total Total
Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Answered Answered (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) Surveyed Surveyed
(Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent)
I understand the current FSIS PE
requirements. 2,380 89.24% 217 8.14% 70 2.62% 2,667 100.00% 2,667 96.18% 106 3.82% 2,773 100.00%
EXECUTIVE
FSIS’ current PE requirements
are reasonably sufficient to
protect me from COVID-19
SUMMARY
infection. 1,571 58.82% 705 26.39% 395 14.79% 2,671 100.00% 2,671 96.32% 102 3.68% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS or the establishment
provides me the required PE. 2,321 86.93% 276 10.34% 73 2.73% 2,670 100.00% 2,670 96.29% 103 3.71% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS reimburses me for my
purchases of required PE. 887 33.51% 1,282 48.43% 478 18.06% 2,647 100.00% 2,647 95.46% 126 4.54% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS strictly enforces PE
BACKGROUND
requirements (i.e., FSIS does not
allow me to work without
required PE). 1,874 70.32% 553 20.75% 238 8.93% 2,665 100.00% 2,665 96.11% 108 3.89% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS or the establishment
AND OBJECTIVE
provides PE of adequate quality
to reduce my risk of infection
from COVID-19 in my work
environment. 1,785 66.85% 579 21.69% 306 11.46% 2,670 100.00% 2,670 96.29% 103 3.71% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS or the establishment
provides PE in sufficient
quantities. 2,027 75.92% 475 17.79% 168 6.29% 2,670 100.00% 2,670 96.29% 103 3.71% 2,773 100.00%
PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
46 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q19. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE)
CURRENTLY available to you. CONTENTS
Answer Choices Agree Agree Neutral Neutral Disagree Disagree Total Total Answered Answered Skipped Skipped Total Total
Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Answered Answered (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) Surveyed Surveyed
(Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent)
FSIS informs me if I have come
into contact with workers
EXECUTIVE
confirmed to have COVID-19. 778 29.34% 721 27.19% 1,153 43.48% 2,652 100.00% 2,652 95.64% 121 4.36% 2,773 100.00%
My establishment informs me if I
have come into contact with
SUMMARY
workers confirmed to have
COVID-19. 856 32.35% 599 22.64% 1,191 45.01% 2,646 100.00% 2,646 95.42% 127 4.58% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS has informed me of the
process for reporting a positive
diagnosis for COVID-19. 1,446 54.61% 595 22.47% 607 22.92% 2,648 100.00% 2,648 95.49% 125 4.51% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS or the establishment
BACKGROUND
conducts on site symptom
assessment of inspectors at my
establishment (for example
temperature screening or orally
AND OBJECTIVE
asks health-screening questions
concerning COVID-19). 1,731 65.37% 433 16.35% 484 18.28% 2,648 100.00% 2,648 95.49% 125 4.51% 2,773 100.00%
I know who to inform if I develop
symptoms consistent with
COVID-19. 2,279 85.87% 252 9.50% 123 4.63% 2,654 100.00% 2,654 95.71% 119 4.29% 2,773 100.00%
I know what actions to take if I
develop symptoms consistent
with COVID-19. 2,203 83.29% 275 10.40% 167 6.31% 2,645 100.00% 2,645 95.38% 128 4.62% 2,773 100.00%
PULSE SURVEY
I can report pandemic-related
safety concerns without fear of
reprisal or repercussion. 1,847 69.67% 548 20.67% 256 9.66% 2,651 100.00% 2,651 95.60% 122 4.40% 2,773 100.00%
RESULTS
Q20. Please state your level of agreement with the following statements regarding working conditions and the protective equipment (PE)
CURRENTLY available to you.
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
Answer Choices Agree Agree Neutral Neutral Disagree Disagree Total Total Answered Answered Skipped Skipped Total Total
Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Answered Answered (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) Surveyed Surveyed
(Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent)
FSIS is responsive to pandemic-
related safety concerns raised at
work. 1,230 46.47% 852 32.19% 565 21.34% 2,647 100.00% 2,647 95.46% 126 4.54% 2,773 100.00%
My immediate supervisor
demonstrates commitment to
employee safety. 2,016 76.10% 442 16.69% 191 7.21% 2,649 100.00% 2,649 95.53% 124 4.47% 2,773 100.00%
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
FSIS demonstrates commitment
to employee safety. 1,407 53.26% 732 27.71% 503 19.04% 2,642 100.00% 2,642 95.28% 131 4.72% 2,773 100.00%
COVID-19 testing is available to
me at no cost if I am exposed at
work. 877 33.37% 1,036 39.42% 715 27.21% 2,628 100.00% 2,628 94.77% 145 5.23% 2,773 100.00%
FSIS encourages me to seek
guidance from my medical
provider regarding testing for
COVID-19 if I suspect I have been
exposed. 1,517 57.51% 741 28.09% 380 14.40% 2,638 100.00% 2,638 95.13% 135 4.87% 2,773 100.00%
AGENCY
RESPONSE
47 OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Q21. I feel safe at work.
Answer Choices Agree Agree Neutral Neutral Disagree Disagree Total Total Answered Answered Skipped Skipped Total Total CONTENTS
Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Answered Answered (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) Surveyed Surveyed
(Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent)
I feel safe at work. 1,015 40.75% 915 36.73% 561 22.52% 2,491 100.00% 2,491 89.83% 282 10.17% 2,773 100.00%
EXECUTIVE
Q22. I do not feel safe at work, but COVID-19 is not the cause.
SUMMARY
Answer Choices Agree Agree Neutral Neutral Disagree Disagree Total Total Answered Answered Skipped Skipped Total Total
Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Responses Answered Answered (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) Surveyed Surveyed
(Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent) (Number) (Percent)
I do not feel safe at work, but
COVID-19 is not the cause. 56 7.61% 148 20.11% 532 72.28% 736 100.00% 736 26.54% 2,037 73.46% 2,773 100.00%
BACKGROUND
Q23. If there is anything additional you would like to share concerning FSIS’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please enter comments below.
AND OBJECTIVE
Answer Choices Responses Responses
(Number) (Percent)
Answered 1,213 43.74%
Skipped 1,560 56.26%
PULSE SURVEY
Total Surveyed 2,773 100.00%
RESULTS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Acronyms and Abbreviations
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
CDC...................................... Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
COVID-19............................. coronavirus disease 2019
BACKGROUND
FSIS........................................ Food Safety and Inspection Service
OAI........................................ Office of Analytics and Innovation
AND OBJECTIVE
OIG....................................... Office of Inspector General
OSHA.................................... Occupational Safety and Health Administration
PE.......................................... protective equipment
PPE........................................ personal protective equipment PULSE SURVEY
RESULTS
U.S......................................... United States
USDA..................................... U.S. Department of Agriculture
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
AGENCY
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Agency Food Safety and
Response
Inspection Service
TO: Phyllis K. Fong
EXECUTIVE
1400 Independence
Avenue, SW.
Inspector General
SUMMARY
Washington, D.C.
20250 USDA Office of Inspector General
FROM: Paul Kiecker / s / 5/26/2021
Administrator
USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service
BACKGROUND
SUBJECT: Response to OIG Draft Report entitled, “Survey of Food Safety and
Inspection Service Inspectors’ Perceptions of COVID-19 Safety in the
Work Environment” (OAI Product 21-001-01)
Thank you for providing the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) an AND OBJECTIVE
opportunity to respond to the USDA Office of Inspector General (OIG), Office of
Analytics and Innovation, draft report entitled, “Survey of Food Safety and Inspection
Service Inspectors’ Perceptions of COVID-19 Safety in the Work Environment.”
FSIS is committed to protecting the health and safety of its employees, while
PULSE SURVEY
ensuring that our Nation’s food supply remains safe. During the COVID-19
RESULTS
pandemic, FSIS proactively worked to protect its employees and ensure that they are
empowered and equipped to perform their duties as safely as possible.
Eighty-five percent of FSIS employees work in the field and are involved in
inspecting food products at over 6,500 regulated facilities. As an Agency, we were
challenged to adapt to rapidly changing conditions and evolving guidance from
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
public health partners and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), while
simultaneously implementing shifting best practices. These types of dynamic
working conditions make it difficult to capture accurate perceptions in a survey that
can be completed in a reasonable amount of time. Therefore, FSIS has the following
comments with respect to key themes highlighted by the OIG that emerged from the
survey results to provide more context:
Protective Equipment:
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
FSIS expeditiously developed, implemented, and communicated COVID-19
protective equipment (PE) requirements to inspection program personnel (IPP) as
soon as Federal guidance was issued. From the outset of the pandemic, FSIS
communicated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance to IPP
and issued internal guidance to protect inspectors’ health and safety aligned with
Federal guidelines and best practices recommended by the CDC, Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and OPM to mitigate the risks associated
with COVID-19.
An Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer AGENCY
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Page 2 CONTENTS
• Masks: The CDC reported the first case of COVID-19 in the United States on
January 21, 2020 and the World Health Organization officially declared
COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. Through April 2, 2020, the
EXECUTIVE
CDC recommended people do not wear a mask unless sick or caring for someone
who was sick and unable to wear a mask. However, on March 26, 2020, FSIS
SUMMARY
communicated to all employees they could voluntarily wear masks.
On April 3, 2020, the CDC revised its position and recommended the use of cloth
face coverings and masks. FSIS promptly communicated to all employees that
they should follow the updated guidance while the FSIS procurement process
BACKGROUND
proceeded. To support employees in their ability to follow CDC guidelines when
masks were not yet made available through the Agency due to global supply
shortages, FSIS authorized a reimbursement of up to $50 for employees to
purchase or make their own face coverings. The Agency also authorized purchase
AND OBJECTIVE
card holders to buy hand sanitizer and disinfectants for IPP locally.
Due to high demand globally, even acquiring cloth face coverings and disposable
masks in quantities sufficient to cover all IPP was challenging. FSIS reached out
to approximately 55 vendors to procure masks.
PULSE SURVEY
On April 26, 2020, CDC again updated its guidance and jointly released with
OSHA the Meat and Poultry Processing Workers and Employers Interim
Guidance for COVID-19. On May 1, 2020, the Agency started distributing cloth
RESULTS
face coverings and disposable masks to IPP. Additionally, FSIS told industry that
if they had supplies of face coverings or other PE and were requiring their
employees to wear them, then they were expected to provide coverings/masks to
FSIS inspectors in their establishments.
• Face Shields: Based on the April 26, 2020, CDC/OSHA recommendations, FSIS
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
immediately began procuring face shields for IPP and requiring them to wear the
shields in conjunction with masks as soon as they were available. On
May 7, 2020, FSIS began to ship out our initial stock of face shields to IPP on
slaughter assignments who were prioritized because in some instances, they had
challenges fully socially distancing. By mid-June, FSIS was able to procure
sufficient face shields for all IPP. FSIS’ supervisors checked with every IPP to
ensure that they both had face masks and face shields and that they understood
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
that they were required to wear both.
• Hand Sanitizer: At the beginning of the pandemic hand sanitizer was in short
supply. FSIS immediately authorized local purchases by purchase card holders
and then quickly procured large shipments of hand sanitizer, which was available
to IPP on May 5, 2020.
An Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer AGENCY
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Page 3
Environment and Statutory Mandate:
As noted, FSIS was operating in a rapidly changing and evolving environment,
requiring the Agency to effectively shift direction as Federal guidance changed and
regulated industry implemented significant changes to its business practices in EXECUTIVE
response to COVID-19. FSIS effectively navigated these challenges while operating
SUMMARY
within its existing authorities.
• The Federal Meat Inspection Act, Poultry Products Inspection Act and Egg
Products Inspection Act provide FSIS with the authority to conduct inspections at
Federally regulated establishments across the United States. The majority of FSIS
BACKGROUND
employees work in the field and provide these essential inspection services at
regulated establishments to ensure the safety of regulated product and, therefore,
are not eligible to telework. FSIS IPP inspect each and every livestock and
poultry carcass before it can enter commerce, and Agency inspectors inspect
AND OBJECTIVE
every processing plant at least once per shift. FSIS proactively explored all
administrative means and flexibilities to protect its employees and ensure that
they were, and continue to be, equipped to perform their duties as safely as
possible. By mid-June, FSIS employees had access to protective equipment,
including face coverings, face shields, and hand sanitizer. FSIS required the use
of cloth face coverings or disposable face masks in conjunction with face shields
PULSE SURVEY
by IPP to ensure FSIS could continue to meet its statutory mission while properly
protecting themselves and others.
RESULTS
Health and Safety:
• FSIS relies on its Federal (CDC and OSHA), state, and local public health
partners for best practices to control human transmitted illnesses. Because
situations in states and specific areas within states were rapidly changing, FSIS
also instructed IPP to follow state and local health department protocols.
APPENDICES
Additionally, FSIS instructed IPP to comply with establishment pandemic
SCOPE AND
protocols because these measures are often informed by the appropriate state and
local public health conditions.
• FSIS allowed employees identified as high-risk by the CDC to take paid
administrative leave based on their self-certification until FSIS could adequately
mitigate the hazards with proper PE. Approximately 740 IPP utilized this
flexibility.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
An Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer AGENCY
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Page 4 CONTENTS
Benefits:
• On March 23, 2020, FSIS issued guidance to managers and supervisors on
leave/telework options available to employees who needed to be absent from
EXECUTIVE
work due to COVID-19 illness, quarantine, and/or caregiving responsibilities.
This guidance aligned with COVID-19 Human Resources flexibilities set forth in
OPM and USDA policy. FSIS allowed employees who fell within higher-risk
categories defined by CDC to self-certify with their supervisor, excusing them SUMMARY
from inspection duties by taking paid administrative leave. As noted above,
approximately 740 IPP took advantage of this flexibility. After FSIS started
equipping employees with face shields and masks in May 2020, self-certifying
employees were given the option of returning to work, requesting paid or unpaid
BACKGROUND
leave, or requesting a Reasonable Accommodation. A return-to-work decision
tree was provided to supervisors as an aid in conducting risk assessments for
CDC-defined high-risk employees.
AND OBJECTIVE
Communication:
• Policy Changes: FSIS adapted and effectively communicated updated guidance
and requirements to IPP through several channels, including weekly All
Employee Town Halls, FSIS All-User emails, and FSIS Notices. Supervisors
were charged with enforcing the requirements.
PULSE SURVEY
• Employee Communication: FSIS consistently held routine Town Halls with all
employees and calls with district and regional managers. The calls afforded
RESULTS
Senior leadership opportunities to directly engage with employees, particularly
those in the field, offer a platform for listening, and share the most current
information and guidance from USDA and other Federal agencies (e.g., CDC,
OSHA). Since March 2020, FSIS conducted 83 Employee Town Halls (weekly
town halls were held at multiple times during the day to provide opportunities for
employees working different shifts the opportunity to participate) and responded
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
to over 1,170 COVID-19 email inquiries submitted through our FSIS Feedback
mailbox, reflecting FSIS’ commitment to ensuring employees are kept informed
of relevant guidance and policies. This communication has been critical as an
avenue for immediate information release to the employee population.
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
An Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer AGENCY
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Page 5 CONTENTS
• Industry Communication: FSIS began a series of regular industry calls to provide
updates on COVID-19 specific protocols. Even though FSIS does not have
regulatory authority over the industry employees, FSIS emphasized the need for
EXECUTIVE
industry to follow current CDC and OSHA guidance including the Meat and
Poultry Processing Workers and Employers Interim Guidance, which included
SUMMARY
recommended controls for reducing the risk of COVID-19 which many
establishments have implemented. OSHA has authority to ensure safe and
healthful working conditions for establishment workers by setting and enforcing
relevant safety standards, requirements, and protocols. FSIS also emphasized the
need for establishments to immediately communicate information regarding
BACKGROUND
COVID-19 positives to FSIS and encourage establishment employees to wear PE
and provide it to FSIS inspection staff if the measures were part of the COVID-19
mitigation plan for their own employees. Establishments across the country
continue to implement protocols to comply with OSHA and CDC guidance,
AND OBJECTIVE
including screening procedures, barriers in work and office areas, and social
distancing to the extent feasible. FSIS personnel also participate in establishment
screening practices as was clearly communicated from the beginning.
• Public Health Advice and Communication: A major organizational challenge
during a pandemic is balancing an employee’s privacy concerns with the need to
PULSE SURVEY
alert other employees to potential exposures in the workplace. To strike an
appropriate balance, FSIS followed CDC guidance for contact tracing and related
communications. In addition to describing criteria for classifying persons as close
RESULTS
contacts to a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19, this guidance also
outlines advice for close contacts regarding quarantine and testing. It is important
to note that FSIS employees would not necessarily be informed about infected
individuals at their worksite if a contact tracing investigation did not determine
these employees to be close contacts. FSIS regulatory authority does not extend to
requiring establishments to inform FSIS when establishment workers are
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
confirmed to have COVID-19 as safety issues are under OSHA and subject to the
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA.)
Both FSIS and a significant portion of the regulated industry have taken steps to mitigate
occupational risks associated with COVID-19. As noted above, FSIS has made, and
continues to make, significant progress since the start of the pandemic and FSIS
employees now have access to protective equipment. FSIS-regulated establishments have
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
instituted engineering and administrative controls that help mitigate the risk of
COVID-19 to employees in accordance with CDC and OSHA’s Meat and Poultry
Processing Workers and Employers Interim Guidance. Taken together, these factors have
reduced the risk of FSIS employees being exposed to COVID-19 in the workplace.
An Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer AGENCY
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
FSIS COVID-19 Response Timeline CONTENTS
Federal and Global Response USDA and FSIS Response
Prior to COVID-19, FSIS inspectors did not wear face masks except in specific animal-disease situations; therefore, FSIS had no mask stockpile or inventory.
March 10, 2020
EXECUTIVE
USDA issues a COVID-19 early decision-making guide for all
USDA agencies to follow.
SUMMARY
March 11, 2020 March 11, 2020
WHO declares COVID-19 pandemic. FSIS follows CDC guidance: masks are only for the medical and
first responder community.
March 12, 2020 March 12, 2020
OMB encourages agencies to approve paid administrative leave FSIS starts holding weekly town hall meetings for employees
for high-risk employees who are not eligible to telework, which on COVID-19 at three different times during the day on a regular
BACKGROUND
includes FSIS Inspectors. basis.
March 13, 2020
The White House issues the Proclamation on Declaring a
National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease
AND OBJECTIVE
(COVID-19) Outbreak.
March 17, 2020
OMB issues Federal Agency Operational Alignment to Slow the March 19, 2020
Spread of Coronavirus. FSIS inspection personnel in CDC high-risk category can self-
certify & stay home with full pay.
March 23, 2020
FSIS issues COVID-19 illness and exposure quarantine protocols.
PULSE SURVEY
March 26, 2020
April 2, 2020 FSIS allows FSIS employees to begin voluntarily wearing face
masks.
CDC recommends people do not wear a mask unless sick or
RESULTS
caring for someone who is sick and unable to wear a mask.
April 3, 2020 April 3 - 4, 2020
CDC recommends the use of cloth face masks. CDC advised that FSIS begins contacting vendors for face masks (ongoing orders
surgical masks or N-95 masks must be reserved for the medical are placed as needed) and notifies inspectors about the new
field. CDC guidance.
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
April 8, 2020
FSIS announces it will reimburse up to $50 for employees who
buy or make their own cloth face masks. Follows with a notice
to all employees about the voluntary use of protective face
masks to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
April 15, 2020
FSIS announces the expectation is that all FSIS employees
should be wearing face coverings.
April 26, 2020 April 26 - May 6, 2020
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
CDC and OSHA jointly issue interim guidance to FSIS-regulated FSIS starts procuring face shields and informs inspection
establishments to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19. personnel that as face shields become available, they will be
Guidance recommended use of face shields with face masks or required to wear them over face masks.
coverings as part of protective equipment.
May 6, 2020
FSIS informs inspection personnel it had hand sanitizer
available for order. FSIS is able to procure hand sanitizer despite
the initial nation-wide shortage.
May 11, 2020
FSIS issues notice to all employees indicating that inspection
personnel are required to wear a cloth face covering or
disposable face mask along with face shields.
Mid-June 2020 - Present
November 20, 2020 Ample supplies of protective equipment, including masks, face
AGENCY
CDC issues an updated scientific brief indicating that masking shields, and hand sanitizer remain available for employees who
offers personal protection for the mask wearer, not just for others. need them.
RESPONSE
OAI PRODUCT 21-001-01
TABLE OF
Food Safety and Inspection Service CONTENTS
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
EXECUTIVE
FSIS COVID-19 Response
SUMMARY
FSIS inspection personnel must be present at all establishments processing meat, poultry, and egg products to ensure Americans continue to
have a safe food supply during the COVID-19 pandemic. FSIS provides inspection services at over 6,500 regulated facilities.
FSIS Employees & Regulated Facilities BACKGROUND
8,700 7,100 740 6,500+ AND OBJECTIVE
FSIS employees FSIS Inspection Personnel FSIS Inspection Regulated Facilities
Personnel Who
Self-Certified Without
PULSE SURVEY
Loss of Pay*
Protective Equipment**
RESULTS
$23,285 53,065
Reimbursed to Employees Individual Protective
SCOPE AND APPENDICES
for Face Masks Equipment Orders Shipped
Communication (March 2020 - April 2021)
METHODOLOGY AND ACRONYMS
83 1,170 23
Employee Employee Industry Calls
Town Halls Email Inquiries
*FSIS took the unprecedented step of protecting its employees by allowing those inspectors in CDC’s high-risk health categories to self-certify
with their supervisor and excusing them from inspection duties until the risk from COVID-19 decreased.
**FSIS regulated establishments are required to provide protective equipment to FSIS inspection personnel if provided to their own
establishment employees.
USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.
AGENCY
RESPONSE
Learn more about USDA OIG
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