A0IG 

Farm Credit Administration 

Office of Inspector General 

Farm Credit Administration 

Office of Inspector General 

Inspection Report 

Survey of Farm Credit

Administration Employees on 

COVID-19 

I-21-02 

June 9, 2021 
PCA0IG 

Farm Credit Administration 

Office of Inspector General 

June 9, 2021 

The Honorable Glen R. Smith, Board Chairman 

The Honorable Jeffery S. Hall, Board Member 

Farm Credit Administration 

1501 Farm Credit Drive 

McLean, Virginia 22102-5090 

Dear Chairman Smith and Board Member Hall: 

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) completed an inspection on a survey of Farm Credit 

Administration (FCA) employees on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The objective of this 

inspection was to conduct a survey on the safety measures and other actions implemented by FCA in 

response to COVID-19. To address our objective, we developed a 17-question survey to collect 

employee input. The survey questions were designed based on guidance set forth in Executive Order 

13991, Protecting the Federal Workforce and Requiring Mask-Wearing, and the Office of 

Management and Budget’s memorandum, COVID-19 Safe Federal Workplace: Agency Model Safety 

Principles (M-21-15). The survey had a 72 percent response rate with 225 employees completing the 

survey. The survey was administered using a web-based platform and responses were collected 

anonymously. 

The survey results showed that employees believed the Agency took positive actions to implement 

safety measures and other actions in response to COVID-19. The survey showed that most employees 

were working remotely since the COVID-19 operating changes, and they felt that they have been able 

to fully perform all work responsibilities in the remote environment. In addition, survey results showed 

that employees had appropriate resources for telework. 87 percent of respondents reported that they

had not observed incorrect mask-wearing, a lack of social distancing, occupancy that was not limited, 

and other sanitation issues at their assigned worksite. 

Survey results identified certain opportunities to provide additional communication to employees 

on procedures related to COVID-19. We made one recommendation in our inspection. 

Management agreed with the recommendation and provided appropriate corrective actions. 

We appreciate the courtesies and professionalism extended by FCA to our staff during the inspection. 

If you have any questions about this inspection, we would be pleased to meet with you at your 

convenience. 

Respectfully, 

Sonya K. Cerne 

Assistant Inspector General for Audits, Inspections, and Evaluations 

1501 Farm Credit Drive, McLean, VA 22102 703-883-4030 www.fca.gov/about/inspector-general 
 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

Survey of FCA Employees on COVID-19 

Report No. I-21-02 June 9, 2021 

Objective 

The objective of this inspection was to 

conduct a survey on safety measures and

other actions implemented by FCA in

response to COVID-19. 

Recommendation 

The Office of Inspector General

recommends the Office of the Chief

Operating Officer distribute further 

communications to employees to explain: 

• when it is necessary to be physically 

present during telework operating 

statuses; 

• how mask-wearing and other 

required workplace safety measures 

differ in Farm Credit Administration 

space and non-Farm Credit

Administration space; 

• trends used in considering the

Agency’s operating status; 

• future remote work arrangements

and expectations; 

• specific procedures for when and 

whom to contact regarding a 

suspected or confirmed coronavirus 

disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnoses 

that affects the workplace; 

• specific procedures for official travel 

decisions and following Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevention 

guidelines after personal travel; 

• symptom monitoring procedures; 

and 

• specific procedures for quarantine 

and self-isolation after a suspected

or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis or

close contact. 

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) is an independent federal agency

responsible for regulating, examining, and supervising the Farm Credit System (FCS

or System) and the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac). The 

Agency’s mission is to ensure that System institutions and Farmer Mac are safe, 

sound, and dependable sources of credit and related services for all creditworthy 

and eligible persons in agriculture and rural America. FCA’s people are a strategic 

priority and critical to achieving its mission. 

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared coronavirus disease 2019 

(COVID-19) a global pandemic. In response to the pandemic, FCA initiated actions 

to protect employees and began a mandatory telework status for most employees 

beginning March 16, 2020. Since then, the Agency has generally remained in full 

telework status. 

To halt the spread of COVID-19 and protect the federal workforce, the President 

signed Executive Order 13991, Protecting the Federal Workforce and Requiring 

Mask-Wearing, on January 20, 2021. The Executive Order requires executive 

departments and agencies to immediately take action to require compliance with 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines with respect to wearing 

masks, maintaining physical distance, and other public health measures by on-duty 

or on-site federal employees, on-site federal contractors, and all other individuals 

in federal buildings and on federal lands. To support implementation of the 

Executive Order, the Office of Management and Budget issued a memorandum, 

COVID-19 Safe Federal Workplace: Agency Model Safety Principles (M-21-15), on 

January 24, 2021. 

The Office of Inspector General developed a survey to collect employee input on 

safety measures and other actions implemented in response to COVID-19. In total, 

225 FCA employees completed the survey, which equates to about 72 percent of 

the FCA workforce. 

Overall, the survey results showed that employees believed the Agency took 

positive actions to implement safety measures and other actions in response to 

COVID-19. Survey results showed that employees were working remotely with 72 

percent reporting that they had not worked at their assigned worksite since the 

COVID-19 operating changes in March 2020. In addition, employees felt they had 

been able to fully perform all work responsibilities in the remote environment and 

that they had appropriate resources to telework. For employees that had been to 

their assigned worksite, approximately 87 percent of respondents reported that 

they had not observed incorrect mask-wearing, a lack of social distancing, 

occupancy that was not limited, or other sanitation issues. Survey results also 

identified opportunities to provide additional communication on safety measures 

and other actions related to COVID-19. 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Acronyms ....................................................................................................................................... 1 

Background.................................................................................................................................... 1 

Inspection Results ......................................................................................................................... 3 

Survey Results ..............................................................................................................................................................3 

Question 1................................................................................................................................................................4 

Question 2................................................................................................................................................................5 

Question 3................................................................................................................................................................6 

Question 4 ................................................................................................................................................................7 

Question 5 ................................................................................................................................................................8 

Question 6 ............................................................................................................................................................. 10 

Question 7............................................................................................................................................................. 11 

Question 8............................................................................................................................................................. 12 

Question 9............................................................................................................................................................. 13 

Question 10........................................................................................................................................................... 14 

Question 11........................................................................................................................................................... 16 

Question 12........................................................................................................................................................... 17 

Question 13........................................................................................................................................................... 18 

Question 14........................................................................................................................................................... 19 

Question 15........................................................................................................................................................... 20 

Question 16........................................................................................................................................................... 21 

Question 17........................................................................................................................................................... 23 

Clear and Continuous Communication........................................................................................................... 24 

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................................... 25 

Management Comments ............................................................................................................ 27 

Objective, Scope, and Methodology ......................................................................................... 29 
ACRONYMS 

Agency Farm Credit Administration 

CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

COVID-19 Coronavirus Disease 2019 

Farmer Mac Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation 

FCA Farm Credit Administration 

FCS Farm Credit System 

FCSBA Farm Credit System Building Association 

OIG Office of Inspector General 

OMB Office of Management and Budget 

System Farm Credit System 

BACKGROUND 

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) is an independent federal agency responsible for 

regulating, examining, and supervising the Farm Credit System (FCS or System) and the Federal 

Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac). The Agency’s mission is to ensure that System 

institutions and Farmer Mac are safe, sound, and dependable sources of credit and related services 

for all creditworthy and eligible persons in agriculture and rural America. FCA’s people are a 

strategic priority and critical for the Agency to achieve its mission. 

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) 

a global pandemic. FCA initiated measures to protect employees and began a mandatory telework

status for most employees beginning March 16, 2020. Since then, the Agency has generally 

remained in full telework status, with limited exceptions for essential staff. In July 2020, the Agency 

began providing employees with the option to work from their office with approval from their 

supervisor and assurances that they have not been diagnosed, had symptoms, or been exposed 

to others with COVID-19. 

FCA headquarters and one field office are located in McLean, Virginia. FCA also has field offices in 

Denver, Colorado; Dallas, Texas; Bloomington, Minnesota; and Sacramento, California. In fiscal 

year 2020, employees were generally assigned across FCA offices as follows: 

• 53 percent in Virginia, 

• 16 percent in Colorado, 

1 
• 12 percent in Minnesota, 

• 11 percent in Texas, 

• 6 percent in California, and 

• 2 percent in other locations. 

The Farm Credit System Building Association (FCSBA) is owned by the FCS banks and was 

established to provide the facilities and related services for FCA and its field offices. The FCSBA 

owns and operates FCA’s headquarters building and holds the leases for FCA field offices. These 

facilities are not federal buildings and house both FCA personnel and commercial tenants. 

In order to halt the spread of COVID-19 and protect the federal workforce, the President signed 

Executive Order 13991, Protecting the Federal Workforce and Requiring Mask-Wearing, on January 

20, 2021. The Executive Order requires executive departments and agencies to immediately take 

action to require compliance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines 

with respect to wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, and other public health measures 

by on-duty or on-site federal employees, on-site federal contractors, and all other individuals in 

federal buildings and on federal lands. To support implementation of the Executive Order, the 

Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a memorandum, COVID-19 Safe Federal 

Workplace: Agency Model Safety Principles (M-21-15), on January 24, 2021. The model principles 

are intended to assist agencies as they build tailored COVID-19 workplace safety plans. 

FCA has implemented various actions to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the 

Agency: 

• holds Emergency Response Team meetings to assess the evolving COVID-19 pandemic 

and appropriate actions; 

• issues internal communications on protocols, operating status decisions, and other 

information related to COVID-19 safety; 

• maintains a dashboard to analyze COVID-19 data and evaluate remote work extensions, 

• provides a dedicated email account to field questions or concerns about steps or protocols 

put in place related to COVID-19; 

• offers leave flexibilities for COVID-19 related reasons; 

• encourages vaccinations and provides information on making vaccination appointments; 

• issued an equipment and supplies reimbursement for telework-related expenses during 

the pandemic; and 

• announced air filtration and purification enhancements in each FCA office to improve air 

quality. 

In April 2021, after we conducted our survey, FCA distributed its draft Plan for Returning to the 

Workplace to all employees. The plan states that it will support FCA leaders with guidelines and 

planning considerations for evaluating the needs of employees as FCA transitions its operating 

status during the pandemic. In addition, because FCA has five different office locations with 

different occupancy levels, the draft plan states that leadership may implement guidance on a 

location-by-location basis with decisions based on data at the local level. On May 20, 2021, FCA 

announced that it updated its draft plan based on updates to CDC guidance on mask-wearing 

and social distancing for fully vaccinated people. The revised plan states that masks and physical 

2 
distancing are not required in certain FCA offices for fully vaccinated personnel during the phase 

two operating status. 

INSPECTION RESULTS 

The objective of this inspection was to conduct a survey on safety measures and other actions 

implemented by FCA in response to COVID-19. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) developed 

a survey that included 17 multiple-choice1 and fill-in-the-blank questions to collect employee 

input. The survey questions were designed based on guidance set forth in Executive Order 13991 

and OMB memorandum M-21-15. In total, 225 FCA employees completed the survey, which 

equates to a 72 percent response rate.2 The margin of error3 for our survey was 3 percent, with a 

95 percent confidence level.4 The survey was administered using a web-based platform that 

allowed the OIG to collect responses without collecting participants’ names or email addresses. 

The survey was open from March 3-10, 2021. 

Survey Results 

Overall, the survey results showed that employees believed the Agency took positive actions to 

implement safety measures and other actions in response to COVID-19. Survey results showed 

that employees were working remotely with 72 percent reporting that they had not worked at 

their assigned worksite since the COVID-19 operating changes in March 2020. In addition, 

employees felt they have been able to fully perform all work responsibilities in the remote 

environment and that they had appropriate resources to telework. For employees that had been 

to their assigned worksite, approximately 87 percent of respondents reported that they had not 

observed incorrect mask-wearing, a lack of social distancing, occupancy that was not limited, or 

other sanitation issues. Survey results also identified certain opportunities to provide additional 

communication on procedures related to COVID-19. The following information identifies each 

question asked on the survey and the corresponding responses. 

1 The survey included questions that allowed respondents to select multiple responses. Specifically, 

questions 8 and 17 allowed respondents to select all answers that applied. 

2 Five additional employees started, but did not finish, the survey. We excluded incomplete responses to

only include the 225 employees who completed the survey. OIG employees did not participate in the survey.

Removing the OIG left 311 employees eligible to participate in the survey. 

3 The margin of error provides the likelihood that the survey results reflect the views of the overall 

population.

4 The confidence level expresses the level of certainty that the sample accurately reflects the total 

population. 

3 
---

Question 1 

Please select your assigned worksite: 

The largest number of respondents selected McLean, Virginia, where FCA’s headquarters is 

located, as their assigned worksite. Remaining respondents selected FCA field offices or 

permanent flexiplace. Nine respondents preferred not to provide their assigned worksite. 

Please select your assigned worksite: 

103 

35 

28 

33 

12 

5 9 

McLean, VA 

Number of Responses 

Denver, CO Dallas, TX Bloomington, Sacramento, Permanent I prefer not 

MN CA Flexiplace to answer 

Assigned Worksite 

4 
 

 

Question 2 

Was your position telework-eligible before the COVID-19 operating changes? 

Survey results indicated that FCA positions were well-suited for the transition to remote work as 

part of the COVID-19 operating changes. 85 percent of respondents reported that their positions 

were telework eligible before the COVID-19 operating changes. 15 percent of respondents 

reported that their positions were not eligible for telework. 

Was your position telework-eligible before the 

COVID-19 operating changes? 

85% (191 

responses) 

15% (34 

responses) 

Yes 

No 

5 
 

-

Question 3 

How frequently did you telework before the COVID-19 operating changes? 

Most survey respondents reported that their position was telework-eligible prior to COVID-19 

operating changes. However, employees stated they teleworked pre-COVID-19 with varying 

frequency. Almost half of respondents stated they did not telework or only teleworked on a 

situational or intermittent basis prior to COVID-19 operating changes. Remaining respondents 

teleworked on a regular basis: 7 percent selected that they teleworked once per pay period, 26 

percent selected that they teleworked twice per pay period, and 18 percent selected that they 

teleworked more than twice per pay period. 

How frequently did you telework before the

COVID-19 operating changes? 

More than twice per pay period 41 

Twice per pay period 58 

Once per pay period 16 

Situational/intermittent telework as needed 67 

I did not telework 

0 10 20 30 40 

43 

50 60 70 80 

6 
Question 4 

Have you been able to fully perform all work responsibilities remotely? If no, explain: 

Survey results indicated that employees feel they have been able to fully perform all work 

responsibilities in the remote environment. The transition to telework in March 2020 was 

immediate and required many employees to perform all work remotely. This shift required 

employees to fulfill certain responsibilities in different ways in order for the Agency to continue 

accomplishing its mission. Nearly all survey respondents reported that they have been able to 

fully perform all work responsibilities remotely. 

Have you been able to fully perform all work

responsibilities remotely? 

No I 7

Yes 218 

0 50 100 150 200 250 

This survey question included a comment field where any respondent could provide additional 

feedback. Themes addressed in the comments were specific responsibilities that could not be 

performed remotely and remote work challenges. Examples of duties that could not be performed 

remotely included work related to government credentials; information technology 

troubleshooting, updates, and equipment services; and mail services. Respondents noted the 

following challenges with remote work in the comments: 

• experiencing occasional connectivity problems, which impacted productivity; 

• maintaining effective supervisory relationships and communicating effectively with all 

staff; and 

• missing in-office camaraderie. 

 

7 
 

 

 

Question 5 

Do you have the appropriate resources to perform your job remotely? If no, explain: 

Survey results indicated that employees feel they have the resources they need for remote work. 

The transition to fully remote work created different resource needs for FCA employees. Fully 

remote work required employees to develop home office arrangements, including information 

technology equipment and office supplies. 94 percent of survey respondents reported that they 

had appropriate resources to perform their job remotely. 

Do you have the appropriate resources to 

perform your job remotely? 

94% (211 

responses) 

6% (14 

responses) 

Yes 

No 

This survey question included a comment field where any respondent could provide additional 

feedback. The most common theme in the comments pertained to information technology 

equipment, specifically a lack of printers and desktop monitors. Respondents noted the following 

challenges related to these resources: 

• difficulty handling lengthy and comprehensive documents without a high-capacity printer; 

• home printers and portable agency-provided monitors do not equate to what is available 

in the office; 

• not having access to hard copies of data and analysis; 

• portable monitors provided to employees were not designed for frequent use and often 

do not connect properly; and 

• not being able to reduce screen time by printing materials. 

8 
 

 

 

Another issue addressed in respondents’ comments was the need to personally purchase work 

resources. Employees noted they personally purchased items such as headsets, monitors, docking 

stations, internet service enhancements, office furniture, and office supplies to work from home 

effectively and efficiently. Comments stated that a stipend or reimbursement for remote work 

equipment would have been helpful, especially given the length of time employees have been 

working remotely, and that some do not have the financial resources for a home office. On March 

16, 2021, FCA announced several COVID-19 benefits for employees, including a plan to issue funds 

to employees to cover telework-related expenses during the pandemic; payments were processed 

in April 2021. 

9 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Question 6 

How often do you work at your assigned worksite since the COVID-19 operating changes? 

Survey results indicated that FCA continues to implement maximum telework. Despite providing 

employees with the option to work at their assigned worksite in July 2020, with appropriate 

approval, most respondents indicated that they have remained fully remote. Since the COVID-19 

operating changes, 72 percent of respondents selected that they have not worked at their 

assigned worksite. 23 percent of respondents selected that they are working at their assigned 

worksite on a situational or intermittent basis, as needed. Remaining respondents selected that 

they work at their assigned worksite once per pay period, twice per pay period, or more than twice 

per pay period.5 

How often do you work at your assigned worksite

since the COVID-19 operating changes? 

I work at my assigned worksite more than twice

y period I 3 per pa

I work at my assigned worksite twice per pay 6 

period I 

I work at my assigned worksite once per pay 2 

period 

I work at my assigned worksite on a

- 52 

situational/intermittent basis as needed

I am working remotely and have not worked at

162 

my assigned worksite 

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 

The next three survey questions (questions 7, 8 and 9) are specific to onsite work in FCA offices 

during COVID-19 operating changes. Employees were directed to these questions based on their 

response to question 6. The 162 employees that selected “I am working remotely and have not 

worked at my assigned worksite” did not have the option to answer questions 7, 8 and 9. For this 

reason, these questions were not answered by all 225 survey respondents. 

5 A pay period is a two-week period. 

10 
• 

• 

Question 7 

While at your assigned worksite, did you feel it was necessary to be physically present? 

Survey results indicated some employees who performed work at their assigned worksite did not 

feel it was necessary to be physically present. Supervisors may have required certain staff serving 

in positions with mission essential functions to perform their work physically at their worksite. FCA 

has offered employees the option to work at their assigned worksite, with appropriate approval, 

but remains in remote status to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 65 percent of respondents

selected that they felt it was necessary to be physically present while at their assigned worksite 

and 35 percent selected that it was not. 

While at your assigned worksite, did you feel

it was necessary to be physically present? 

65% (41 

responses) 

35% (22 

responses) 

Yes 

No 

11 
Question 8 

At your assigned worksite were any of the following observed (select all that apply)? 

Survey responses indicated that COVID-19 safety measures are generally being implemented in 

FCA offices. The majority of survey respondents selected that they did not observe improper 

measures listed by selecting “none of the above.” 11 percent of respondents noted that incorrect 

mask-wearing was observed in non-FCA space, and 8 percent noted that incorrect mask-wearing 

was observed in FCA space.6 The remaining observations accounted for three percent or less of 

total respondents. 

I 

I 

I 

I 

I 

I 

-

-

At your assigned worksite were any of the following

observed (select all that apply)? 

Disinfectants were not available to sanitize my 0% workspace and personal property 

Occupancy in non-FCA space was not limited 0% 

Occupancy in FCA space was not limited 0% 

Sufficient handwashing supplies were not available 2% 

Hand sanitizer was not available at my building 2% 

entrance or workspace 

Non-FCA shared spaces did not appear cleaned and

2% 

sanitized 

FCA shared spaces did not appear cleaned and

2% 

sanitized 

Lack of social distancing in non-FCA space 2% 

Lack of social distancing in FCA space 3% 

Incorrect mask wearing in FCA space 8% 

Incorrect mask wearing in non-FCA space 11% 

None of the above 87% 

6 FCA and non-FCA space were distinguished in available responses because FCA offices are not in federal 

buildings and include non-FCA tenants. 

12 
Question 9 

Please provide any additional information about your assigned worksite during the COVID19 operating changes that you feel is important: 

Question 9 provided a comment field where respondents could provide additional feedback about 

their assigned worksite during COVID-19 operating changes.7 The most common theme in the 

comments was positive feedback about the current office environment. Positive comments 

included: 

• Onsite work has been very limited, for example, important meetings or specific projects 

that are easier to complete in the office. 

• Onsite work has been completely voluntary or elected by the employee. 

• Very few people have been in the office and offices have done a very good job limiting 

the number of employees in the office at one time, which supports distancing and makes 

onsite work feel low-risk. 

• FCSBA and leadership have taken steps to ensure sanitation on a regular basis, and office 

space has been clean with adequate cleaning supplies. 

• Occupants have always worn masks in hallways and common areas. 

• COVID-19 protocols have been followed. 

7 63 respondents were directed to questions 7, 8, and 9, but question 9 did not require a response. 

13 
 

 

 

 

Question 10 

How do you feel about FCA’s communication during the COVID-19 pandemic? If 

dissatisfied, explain: 

Survey results indicated employees were generally satisfied or neutral regarding communication 

during the COVID-19 pandemic. FCA communicates with employees through internal newsletters 

and other media to provide current information related to COVID-19 and the Agency’s operating 

status. 76 percent of respondents selected that they were satisfied, and 8 percent selected that 

they were dissatisfied. The remaining 16 percent selected that they felt neutral about FCA’s 

communication. 

How do you feel about FCA’s communication

during the COVID-19 pandemic? 

76% (171 

responses) 

16% (36 

responses) 

8% (18 

responses) 

Satisfied 

Neutral 

Dissatisfied 

This survey question included a comment field where any respondent could provide additional 

feedback. The most common theme in the comments pertained to short-term extensions for 

telework operating statuses and a lack of information about the metrics used to determine these 

extensions. Respondents felt these issues created confusion and uncertainty and made it difficult 

to plan. More specifically, comments stated: 

• FCA should give more warning and provide a potential return to office date that is further 

out rather than changing the date on a month-to-month basis. 

• Other federal regulators extended mandatory telework until summer or fall of 2021. 

• Longer-term dates give employees clear expectations rather than moving the date 

month-by-month when it seems clear employees will not be returning in a month. 

14 
• The short-term planning horizon for the potential return to work is difficult for individuals 

with caregiving responsibilities to plan. 

• The data and criteria being used to make the decision whether to extend telework is not 

shared with staff, which is not transparent and creates more confusion. 

Another issue addressed in respondents’ comments was future expectations about telework 

arrangements. Comments stated that it would be helpful to hear from management or the FCA 

Board on future teleworking arrangements and whether there are anticipated changes, such as 

expanded telework. A comment stated that because employees have worked from home 

successfully for over a year and it has provided work/life benefits, there should be discussions and 

communication on what work arrangements are expected going forward. Another comment

noted mixed messaging regarding remote work. It stated that employees are being told they need 

to be back in the office and traveling as soon as possible, yet they are commended for doing their 

jobs effectively in a fully remote environment. 

15 
Question 11 

I feel FCA has appropriate policies on reporting a COVID-19 diagnosis that may impact the

workplace: 

Survey results indicated an opportunity to increase awareness of COVID-19 safety measures at 

FCA. Reporting and contact tracing are important safety measures to limit the spread of COVID19 in the workplace. 68 percent of respondents selected that they felt FCA policies on reporting a 

COVID-19 diagnosis were appropriate. 28 percent of respondents selected that they did not know, 

and 4 percent selected the reporting policies were not appropriate. 

16 

0% 

I feel FCA has appropriate policies on reporting 

a COVID-19 diagnosis that may impact the

workplace: 

80% 

70% 

68% (154 

responses) 

60% 

50% 

40% 

30% 

28% (62 

responses) 

20% 

10% 

4% (9 responses) 

Yes No I don't know 
Question 12 

Have you been required to perform official travel during FCA’s COVID-19 operating

changes? 

Survey results reflect FCA’s effective implementation of safety measures to minimize official travel. 

Prior to the COVID-19 operating changes, FCA examiners conducted significant travel for 

examinations. Official travel was suspended in March 2020 as part of the Agency’s COVID-19 

operating changes. 99 percent of survey respondents selected that they have not been required

to perform official travel during COVID-19 operating changes. 

17 

 

I 

Have you been required to perform official

travel during FCA’s COVID-19 operating

changes? 

No 99% (223 

responses) 

Yes 1% (2 responses) 

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 
 

 

 

 

 

Question 13 

I feel FCA has adequate safety procedures regarding official or personal travel during

COVID-19 operating changes: 

Survey results indicated an opportunity to increase awareness of COVID-19 safety measures at 

FCA. OMB memorandum M-21-15 states federal employees should adhere strictly to CDC 

guidelines before, during, and after travel, regardless of whether the travel is personal or for 

official business. Precautions may include assessing travel risk prior to travel, always wearing a 

mask, or getting tested before returning to the workplace. While 60 percent of respondents 

selected that FCA had adequate safety procedures regarding official or personal travel during 

COVID-19 operating changes, the remaining 40 percent selected they did not know or did not 

feel procedures were adequate. 

I feel FCA has adequate safety procedures 

regarding official or personal travel during

COVID-19 operating changes: 

Yes 

No 

I don't know 

60% (135 

responses) 

3% (6 

responses) 

37% (84 

responses) 

18 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Question 14 

I feel FCA has adequate symptom monitoring procedures at my assigned worksite (for

example, a symptom questionnaire, exposure history questionnaire, temperature check): 

Survey results indicated that employees are generally confident in symptom monitoring 

procedures at FCA offices; however, there are opportunities to increase communication and 

employees’ awareness. Symptom monitoring is an important tool to prevent those who do not

feel well from entering the federal workplace. Due to the ever-changing nature of COVID-19 

exposures, the most effective symptom monitoring occurs on a daily basis or upon entry to the

workplace. OMB memorandum M-21-15 states that symptom monitoring allows federal agencies

to assess an individual’s risk level and determine whether they should enter the workplace. 80

percent of respondents selected that they felt symptom monitoring procedures were adequate. 

16 percent selected that they did not know, and the remaining 4 percent selected they did not 

feel procedures were adequate. Responses to this question may be affected by the large number

of employees who selected that they had not returned to their assigned worksite since the COVID19 operating changes. 

I feel FCA has adequate symptom monitoring

procedures at my assigned worksite (for 

example, a symptom questionnaire, exposure

history questionnaire, temperature check): 

80% (179 

responses) 

4% (9 responses) 

16% (37 

responses) Yes 

No 

I don't know 

19 
 

 

 

 

 

Question 15 

I feel FCA has appropriate requirements for quarantine and self-isolation after a suspected

or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis or close contact with someone who has tested positive

for COVID-19: 

Survey results indicated an opportunity to increase awareness of COVID-19 safety measures at 

FCA. OMB memorandum M-21-15 states individuals with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 will 

be advised to isolate and those who have had close contact with someone who has tested positive 

should quarantine in accordance with CDC guidelines. Consistent implementation of quarantine 

and isolation procedures helps protect federal employees from exposure. 63 percent of survey

respondents selected that they feel FCA’s quarantine and self-isolation requirements were 

appropriate. 34 percent of respondents selected that they did not know, and the remaining 3 

percent selected that they felt these requirements were not appropriate. 

I feel FCA has appropriate requirements for 

quarantine and self-isolation after a suspected

or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis or close

contact with someone who has tested positive

for COVID-19: 

63% (142

responses) 

3% (7 responses) 

34% (76

responses) 

Yes 

No 

I don't know 

20 
 

 

 

Question 16 

Additional COVID-19 procedures are needed for me to feel safe working at my assigned

worksite. If yes, explain: 

Survey results indicated that additional procedures may be needed for FCA employees to feel safe 

at their assigned worksite. In March 2020, FCA directed most of its workforce to telework and 

restricted business travel. Since that time, the Agency has continued to extend telework status, 

and most employees selected that they have been fully remote. Safety procedures are important 

as the Agency evaluates changes to its remote work status. 64 percent of respondents selected 

that they did not feel additional procedures are needed for them to feel safe at their assigned 

worksite. However, the remaining 36 percent felt additional procedures are needed. 

Additional COVID-19 procedures are needed

for me to feel safe working at my assigned

worksite: 

36% (81 

responses) 

64% (144

responses) 

Yes 

No 

This survey question included a comment field where any respondent could provide additional 

feedback. The most common theme in the comments was a lack of clarity on safety procedures 

and requirements in the workplace. More specifically, comments addressed a lack of awareness 

or understanding for procedures at their assigned worksite related to: 

• following CDC guidelines, including mask-wearing, and social distancing; 

• reporting a possible COVID-19 exposure and notification of employees about a potential 

workplace exposure; 

• developing symptoms in the office; 

• quarantine and self-isolation after close contact or potential exposure; 

21 
• office gathering and entering other employees’ offices; 

• shared spaces such as conference rooms and kitchens; 

• official and personal travel, including testing and quarantine for required travel; 

• symptom monitoring at FCA offices, including exposure questionnaires and requirements 

not to enter the workplace if feeling sick; 

• cleaning and sanitation for surfaces and commonly used areas; 

• visitors; 

• 8 ventilation;

• field office procedures; 

• occupancy limits; 

• whether procedures differ for vaccinated and unvaccinated employees; and 

• safety procedures while at system institutions. 

Another issue addressed in respondents’ comments was vaccination. Comments stated that 

employees would like to be vaccinated before they return to the office. In addition, respondents 

commented that the overall vaccination status of their offices and communities are important for 

them to feel safe working at their assigned worksite. Respondents stated that they would like 

more transparency and communication on the Agency’s expectations regarding vaccination. 

Comments also expressed concern that vaccinations should not be the sole basis for returning to 

offices and commencing official travel. A comment stated that because it is not possible to know 

others’ vaccination status and one can still contract COVID-19 if vaccinated, the workplace still 

may not be safe. 

8 On April 23, 2021, the Agency announced that in preparation for the return of more employees to the

office, FCSBA was taking steps to improve air quality. The announcement stated that the FCSBA would ship

portable air filtration units to each FCA field office, and it had signed a contract to provide a central air 

purification system in McLean, Virginia. 

22 
Question 17 

Which of the following are important to you once the Agency begins to reopen offices

(select all that apply): 

As FCA evaluates reopening offices and returning to assigned worksites, survey results indicated 

several key areas for consideration. 84 and 82 percent of respondents, respectively, selected 

maximizing telework and flexible scheduling as important factors. In addition, 72 percent of 

respondents selected that cleaning and sanitation are important for returning to offices. This 

question included an “Other (fill in the blank)” option with a comment field where respondents 

could provide additional feedback. The most common themes in the responses addressed remote 

work and vaccinations. With regard to remote work, respondents commented that there should 

be more telework going forward to protect high-risk individuals, promote work/life balance, and 

support flexibility and productivity. Respondents also reiterated the importance of vaccinations in 

evaluating returning to offices. Comments expressed concerns about not knowing others’ 

vaccination status and Agency expectations for those who are not vaccinated. In addition, the 

comments stated that vaccinations, time for them to be fully effective, and achieving herd 

immunity are important benchmarks. 

23 

Which of the following are important to you once the 

Agency begins to reopen offices (select all that apply): 

None of the above 6 I 

Other (fill in the blank) 45 

Staggered work schedules 89 

Leave flexibilities 100 

Providing sanitation and safety materials to employees (masks, 116 gloves, hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, testing kits) 

Procedures for official and personal travel 119 

Minimizing in person gatherings 121 

Symptom monitoring procedures (for example, a symptom

questionnaire, exposure history questionnaire, temperature check) 123 

Cleaning and sanitation 161 

Flexible scheduling 

Maximizing telework 

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 

184 

190 

200 
Clear and Continuous Communication 

Proper implementation of safety measures is essential for their effectiveness. Documenting and 

communicating safety requirements and procedures helps improve awareness, standardize 

implementation, and support enforcement across FCA. Specific safety procedures and clear 

communication are also important given FCA’s geographically dispersed office locations and 

space in non-federal buildings. Because COVID-19 mandates differ by state, it is important for 

employees to understand how safety measures are being implemented across their office. 

Furthermore, because FCA does not determine safety measures for commercial tenants co-located 

in its office locations, it is important to establish clear barriers and educate employees on how 

requirements differ within FCA and non-FCA space. 

On April 8, 2021, the Agency distributed its draft Plan for Returning to the Workplace agencywide. 

The draft plan provides employees with clearer communications on safety protocols as employees 

return to assigned worksites. In addition, the Agency maintains an email address where employees 

can send questions or concerns about workplace health and safety. However, additional 

information and communication will help employees better understand the Agency’s COVID-19 

decision-making. Supervisors should make sure employees understand specific tasks that need to 

be performed onsite during telework operating statuses to minimize unnecessary risks. Employees 

will also benefit from greater transparency on metrics used for operating status decisions and 

future remote work options and arrangements. Although the draft plan states that cases, testing,

hospitalizations, vaccine availability, and vaccination data points will be reviewed to make 

operating status decisions, citing to specific metrics or trends and how they have changed will 

help employees understand conclusions. 

FCA’s draft Plan for Returning to the Workplace describes four operating status phases and safety 

measures in different categories, but providing additional details and procedures would address 

concerns identified in survey responses. The draft plan addresses requirements in each phase for: 

• telework and maximum occupancy limits 

• COVID-19 vaccinations following state/local vaccination plans9 

 

• travel 

• in-person training 

• COVID-19 testing 

• 10 face masks/coverings 

• physical distancing 

• temperature checks 

• sick employees 

9 On April 12, 2021, the Agency provided senior management with a question and answer document related 

to vaccinations and COVID-19. The guidance explains answers to potential questions and where to direct 

employees for additional information.

10 In May 2021, the CDC updated its guidance for fully vaccinated people with respect to masking and 

physical distancing. As a result, on May 20, 2021, FCA updated its phase two operating status requirements 

in these areas. 

24 
• reporting COVID-19 incidents and contact tracing 

• encouraging telework for employees that lack dependent care or transportation due to 

COVID-19 

• reasonable accommodation requests 

• building cleaning and sanitation 

• personal protective equipment supplies 

• sanitation of shared equipment 

• meetings and gatherings 

• restrictions of common areas 

• workspace redesign to allow distancing 

• signage on COVID-19 safety practices 

• re-exit strategy if conditions worsen 

However, the plan does not provide detailed information about whom to contact for a confirmed 

or suspected COVID-19 diagnoses, how travel decisions will be evaluated, how symptoms will be 

monitored at FCA offices beyond temperature checks, and quarantine and self-isolation after a 

suspected or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis or exposure. Specific procedures and communication 

with employees will make safety measures more effective, instill confidence in workplace safety, 

and support proper implementation of CDC guidelines across the Agency. 

Recommendation 

To increase employee awareness and understanding of COVID-19 safety measures, we made the 

following recommendation: 

1. The Office of Inspector General recommends the Office of the Chief Operating Officer 

distribute further communications to employees to explain: 

• when it is necessary to be physically present during telework operating statuses; 

• how mask-wearing and other required workplace safety measures differ in Farm 

Credit Administration space and non-Farm Credit Administration space; 

• trends used in considering the Agency’s operating status; 

• future remote work arrangements and expectations; 

• specific procedures for when and whom to contact regarding a suspected or

confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnoses that affects the 

workplace; 

• specific procedures for official travel decisions and following Centers for Disease 

Control and Prevention guidelines after personal travel; 

• symptom monitoring procedures; and 

• specific procedures for quarantine and self-isolation after a suspected or confirmed 

COVID-19 diagnosis or close contact. 

FCA Response 

The Agency agreed with the recommendation (see additional responses in the management 

comments section of this report). The Chief Operating Officer stated the Agency will distribute 

additional communication to employees on the topics identified in the report and will work within 

25 
federal and local guidelines to continue refining its Return to the Workplace Plan. The estimated 

completion date for the planned corrective actions is September 30, 2021. 

OIG Response 

The OIG finds the actions responsive to our recommendation. Management comments can be 

found in the subsequent section of the report. The Agency waived an exit conference. 

26 
d1

um Farm Credit Administrea~ion 

1501 Fa rm Credit Driive 

McLea n, VA 22.102-509 0 

(703) 883-4000 

June l , 2021 

iro: 

From: 

Subject: 

Tor i Kaufmann 

Samuel R.Colem ari 

M anagement Response to til e Inspector General's Draft Inspection Re:pon:: Survey of 

f a rm Oredit Admiriistrati on Employees. ori COVID-19' 

irhis memorandum responds to the OIG Draft I rispectiori Repon: .Srmvey of farm 0-ed it Administration 

Employees oo COV/D-19'. irhe FCA appreciates the Office of Inspector General's (OlG'sl effons to survev 

em ployees re,g;infing our safety measures a rid other a ctioru. implemented by FCA in response t o 00\tl D19. It is. imponarit to recogn ize that priorto the OlG's su rvey, the FCA workforce complet ed t'l'w 

diff,eremt surveys on tile agency's response to the pand'emic On the f ederal Empluy,ee Viewpoint Survey 

(FlEVS), 99%of 1ihe respondents felt protected f rom hea lth arid safety ha,zards on the job. lri September 

2020, a one-question pulse survey reveal ed that 86%of tll.e respon dents were very :satisfied with fiCA's 

response to the pandem ic. In an effort to avoid "survey fat igue", th.e agency will continue to util'ize the 

useful darta gjeaned from the aforementioned surveys" irhe Board and tile Emergency Response iream 

IE:Rl) continues to communicate effective!',' a rid consistently with staff. Our response t o the pa ridemic 

has, arid w ill continue t o take a conservative approach which avoids putting employees at lisle. 

1111 our communications to :staff, we provide monthlV updates on ou r operating status, along with a.d-hoc 

updartes as rieed'ed. With our ongoing vacciriartion campa(gri, we continue to encourage staff to get 

v,accinated a rid hav e he.I ped t o fa.cil itat e their d oirig :so by provid'.i ng paid! leave for tll e purpose of 

receiving til e vaccination. We :shared with staff some of the information tllat is reviewed iri determining 

our ope.rat ing status. Lastly, we :sh ared information ori wha.t to do ifan employee has a suspected or 

co rifir medl COVID" 19 diagnosis or exp osure to• someo rie with a s uspectedl or confirmed d iagnmis and 

have been recentty i ri a ri FCA office. As we continue t o• keep ,em ployees informed!, we concur with your 

recommen da.ti on to• dis tribute further com mu riicartiora on t he topics ident ified iri your draft report, and 

will continue to do :so as information becom es av,ailabte. 

In M ay 2020, the FiCA created a draft Retum-to-,the:-Workplace Plan (Rl\'IIP). It is a living dlornment and 

co ritiriuousl1,1 updat ed based ori the Centers for Dis,ease Con troll and Preverition (CDC), fiedera I and local 

,guidelines. Recogriizing that mariy ofthe suhpoints listed in t he OIG recommen dation are a.ddres:sed in 

our draft RlWP, the fCA strives to continue improving our response to tile pandemic. Based ori your 

re com men da.ti on, we wiD distribute addition a I commun ications to employ,ees, a,s inform atiori becomes 

aivai able, to further exp!a i tll,e fol lowing: 

MANAGEMENT COMMENTS 

27 
Vllh.en it is necessary to be physicall:y pr,esent during t ele~vork operating statuses 

• How mask-w earing and ot her required workplace safety mea,s,ures differ in f'a rm Credit 

Adm inistrat ion space and non-Farm Credit Adm inistration spaCie; 

• Trends. usecl i11 con~ dering t he Agency's operati11g statu s; 

• Decisions on futu re remote work ,arraflgem ents and expectations; ( m e: No across-tllHoa rd 

decisions will be made p riorto retu ming t o tl1 e physical office.) 

• Specific procedures for wfl ein and whom t o conta.ct regarding a suspecte d or c:onfcrm ed 

coronavirus dis ease 20]9 jCOVID-19) dia.gnoses t hat ,affect the workplace; 

• Specific procedures for offidall travel decisions and foUowing Centers for Disea,s;e Cont rol and 

Prevention guid'e1lines after personal travel; 

• Symptom monitoring procedures; and 

• Specific procedures for quarantine and self-isol,ation after a suspected or confirmed OOVID-19 

diagnosis. or close contact. 

As vacctnation rates tncrease and OOViD-19 cases decrease across the country, we rem atn optimistic 

about the possibility of returning to the physical office ,and resuming more nor mal ope.r.ations. We will 

a,void taktng steps tll at will either create unrealistic expectations or limit our opt ions. We rem ain 

focused on gatheri11g up-to-d a lie information ,and keeping emp loyees informed. 

2 

28 
OBJECTIVE, SCOPE, AND METHODOLOGY 

The objective of this inspection was to conduct a survey on safety measures and other actions 

implemented by FCA in response to COVID-19. We conducted the inspection at FCA remotely 

from February 2021 through May 2021. The scope of this inspection included responses to a 

survey provided to FCA employees. 

We took the following steps to accomplish the objective: 

• Identified and reviewed applicable laws, regulations, executive orders, and guidance 

related to the objective; 

• Identified and reviewed applicable internal FCA policies and procedures; 

• Reviewed prior reviews related to the inspection objective; 

• Interviewed the Chief Operating Officer; 

• Developed a survey on safety measures and other actions implemented at FCA in response 

to COVID-19. The survey was created using a web-based platform and a link to the survey 

was emailed to all FCA employees. Survey data was collected anonymously to exclude 

employees’ names and email addresses. The survey was open for employees from March 

3-10, 2021; 

• Collected survey responses from 225 employees, which equates to a 72 percent response

rate. Given the high response rate to our survey, we concluded that the data was 

significant. The margin of error for our survey was 3 percent with a 95 percent confidence 

level; and 

• Analyzed survey data and results, including comments provided by respondents. 

This inspection was performed in accordance with the Council of the Inspectors General on 

Integrity and Efficiency’s Quality Standards for Inspection and Evaluation. These standards require 

that we plan and perform the inspection to obtain sufficient, competent, and relevant evidence 

that provides a reasonable basis for our findings, conclusions, and recommendations. We assessed 

internal controls and compliance with laws and regulations to the extent necessary to satisfy the 

objective. Because our review was limited, it would not necessarily have disclosed all internal 

control deficiencies that may have existed at the time of our inspection. We assessed the 

information and data collected during the inspection and determined it was sufficiently reliable 

and valid for use in meeting the inspection objective. We assessed the risk of fraud related to our 

inspection objective while evaluating evidence. Overall, we believe the evidence obtained is 

sufficient to provide a reasonable basis for our findings and conclusions based on the inspection 

objective. 

29 
Credit Administration 

Office of Inspector General 

REPORT FRAUD, WASTE, ABUSE, & 

MISMANAGEMENT: 

Phone: (800) 437-7322 (Toll-Free)

(703) 883-4316 

Fax: (703) 883-4059 

Email: fca-ig-hotline@rcn.com 

Mail: 1501 Farm Credit Drive 

McLean, VA 22102-5090 

To learn more about reporting wrongdoing to the OIG, please visit our

website at https://www.fca.gov/about/inspector-general.