1 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees
2 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Message from the Deputy Commissioner

for Operations and Chief Operating Officer

It is our honor and pleasure to welcome you to the Office of Operations (OO). OO provides unique 

opportunities for individuals with backgrounds in administration who want to work collaboratively 

with other motivated individuals.

Our employees are the heart of the organization and genuinely care about the work they perform.

As part of the OO team, you will discover that the pursuit of excellence is truly a rewarding aspect of

your career with the FDA. Together we can embrace this exciting opportunity and be proud to be a 

member of an organization made up of highly talented and dedicated public servants.

Our goal is to enable all our employees the ability to make a significant contribution to OO today, but to also prepare them 

for the demands, responsibilities, and career opportunities of the future. 

And now, you are part of this innovative organization and the important work we do. Welcome to the OO!

Sincerely,

Jim Sigg

Deputy Commissioner for

Operations and Chief Operating Officer
3 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Table of Contents

About the Food and Drug Administration .................................................................................................. 5

About the Office of Operations ................................................................................................................... 5

OO Mission, Vision, and Values .................................................................................................................................................5

OO Leadership Structure ........................................................................................................................................................... 6

OO Offices and Mission Statements ........................................................................................................................................... 7

Office of Operations Employee Work Groups .......................................................................................................................... 8

Employee Resource & Information Center ................................................................................................. 9

FDA Visual Identity Program ................................................................................................................... 10

Equal Employment Opportunity................................................................................................................ 11

Harassment Whistleblower Protection.................................................................................................................................... 11

Reasonable Accommodations................................................................................................................................................... 11

FDA Innovation Suite ................................................................................................................................12

FDA Innovation Lab ..................................................................................................................................................................12

AskIT Now Kiosk .......................................................................................................................................................................12

OO Hoteling...............................................................................................................................................................................12

Cyber Café..................................................................................................................................................................................12

Hazardous Weather and Emergency Situations ........................................................................................13

Professional Development.........................................................................................................................14

FDA University ..........................................................................................................................................................................14

HHS Learning Management System........................................................................................................................................14

Individual Development Plan...................................................................................................................................................14

Pay and Leave............................................................................................................................................ 15

Integrated Time and Attendance System................................................................................................................................. 15

MyPay.........................................................................................................................................................................................15

Electronic Official Personnel Folder ........................................................................................................................................15

FDA Core Hours ........................................................................................................................................................................15

Work Schedules .........................................................................................................................................................................16

Telework.....................................................................................................................................................................................16

Annual Leave ............................................................................................................................................................................. 17

Sick Leave ..................................................................................................................................................................................18

Voluntary Leave Transfer Program ..........................................................................................................................................18

Federal Holidays........................................................................................................................................................................18

Insurance Programs..................................................................................................................................19

Federal Employee Health Benefits Program ...........................................................................................................................19

Federal Employees’ Dental and Vision Insurance Program ...................................................................................................19

Federal Flexible Spending Accounts Program........................................................................................................................ 20

Federal Employee’s Group Life Insurance Program .............................................................................................................. 20

Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program ......................................................................................................................... 20
4 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Retirement ................................................................................................................................................ 21

Federal Employee Retirement System.....................................................................................................................................21

Social Security Benefits .............................................................................................................................................................21

Basic Benefit Plan......................................................................................................................................................................21

Thrift Savings Plan ................................................................................................................................................................... 22

Security and Badging................................................................................................................................ 23

Sustainability Initiatives .......................................................................................................................... 24

Employee Commuting and Transportation at White Oak ..................................................................................................... 24

FDA Recycling Program........................................................................................................................................................... 24

FDA Supply Swap Program ..................................................................................................................................................... 24

Transhare................................................................................................................................................. 25

Worklife Programs Branch ...................................................................................................................... 26

WorkLife 4 You......................................................................................................................................................................... 26

Employee Assistance Program ................................................................................................................................................ 26

FDA White Oak Classic .............................................................................................................................................................27

Bring Your Child to Work Day..................................................................................................................................................27

FDA Nursing Mother's Program ...............................................................................................................................................27

Feds Feed Families Food Drive ................................................................................................................................................27

FDA Employee Recreation Association....................................................................................................................................27

White Oak Fitness Center .........................................................................................................................................................27

White Oak Campus Information............................................................................................................... 28

CSU Occupational Health Center ............................................................................................................................................ 28

White Oak Conference Rooms................................................................................................................................................. 28

White Oak Art Gallery .............................................................................................................................................................. 28

FedFinancial Federal Credit Union......................................................................................................................................... 29

White Oak Campus Security .................................................................................................................................................... 29

White Oak Campus Food Services........................................................................................................................................... 30

White Oak Campus Map ...........................................................................................................................................................31
5 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

About the Food and Drug Administration

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is 

responsible for protecting the public health by assuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, 

biological products, medical devices, our nation’s food supply, cosmetics and products that emit radiation, and by 

regulating the manufacture, marketing, and distribution of tobacco products.

Although it was not known by its present name until 1930, FDA’s modern regulatory functions began with the passage

of the 1906 Pure Food and Drugs Act, a law a quarter-century in the making that prohibited interstate commerce in 

adulterated and misbranded food and drugs.

Today, FDA is responsible for advancing the public health by helping facilitate innovations that make medicines more 

effective, safer, and more affordable and by helping the public get the accurate, science-based information they need to

use medicines and foods to maintain and improve their health. FDA is also responsible for regulating the manufacturing, 

marketing and distribution of tobacco products to protect the public health and to reduce tobacco use by minors. Finally, 

FDA plays a significant role in the Nation’s counterterrorism capability. FDA fulfills this responsibility by ensuring the 

security of the food supply and by fostering the development of medical products to respond to deliberate and naturally 

emerging public health threats.

About the Office of Operations

Every day the FDA’s Office of Operations (OO) makes a critical commitment: to ensure effective and efficient delivery of 

high quality mission support services to Agency customers. OO’s portfolio of responsibilities is diverse. OO staff in the 

national capital region and in the field support a variety of critical functions for the Agency, including human resources, 

technology, facilities, budget and finance, acquisitions, ethics, crisis management, and employee safety and security.

Over the past decade, FDA’s regulatory mandates have expanded considerably and in turn have increased demand for OO 

services. Today, we continue to evolve based on changing needs and are consistently looking for ways to innovate and 

improve upon our processes to ensure we are delivering the very best.

OO Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission

To ensure the timely and effective delivery of high quality and cost effective mission support services across the FDA and 

its centers, and coordinate emergency preparedness and response activities for incidents involving FDA-regulated 

products across FDA and its stakeholders. 

Vision

Excellence and innovation in delivering mission support services and emergency preparedness and response, exceeding 

stakeholder expectations.

Values

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We value the strengths of our staff 

We take pride in our exceptional work

We value our customers

We value feedback
6 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

OO Leadership Structure

OO — Office of Operations 

OEEO — Office of Equal Employment Opportunity 

OFEMS — Office of Facilities, Engineering & Mission

Support Services 

OM — Office of Management

EO-OC — Executive Officer for the Office of the Commissioner

OHR — Office of Human Resources 

DEI — Division of Ethics and Integrity 

OAGS — Office of Acquisitions and Grants Services 

OFBA — Office of Finance, Budget & Acquisitions 

OFM — Office of Financial Management

OIMT — Office of Information Management Technology 

OSSCM — Office of Safety, Security, and Crisis Management 

OB — Office of Budget 

OSO — Office of Security Operations 

OCM — Office of Crisis Management 

ISS — Information Security Staff 

OBCA — Office of Business and Customer Service 

OTD — Office of New Technology and Delivery

This is not an official organizational chart. For more information about Office of Operations: 

http://inside.fda:9003/OC/OfficeofOperations/default.htm
7 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

OO Offices and Mission Statements

Office of Management

The Office of Management (OM) continually and systematically monitors and guides the planning and implementation

of FDA administrative operations through planning, analysis, information dissemination, decision support, and

technical expertise.

Office of Equal Employment Opportunity

The Office of Equal Employment Opportunity (OEEO) promotes an inclusive work environment that ensures equity, 

fosters a culture that values diversity, and empowers the agency’s workforce to achieve their fullest potential.

Office of Facilities Engineering and Mission Support Services

The Office of Facilities Engineering and Mission Support Services (OFEMS) provides FDA employees with high quality 

office and laboratory facilities, and supports the agency’s mission by efficiently and effectively delivering support services 

that serve our customers and stakeholders while maintaining cross-agency perspective.

Office of Finance, Budget, and Acquisitions

The Office of Finance, Budget, and Acquisitions (OFBA) leads budget, acquisitions, and financial management functions 

while ensuring the financial integrity of FDA’s resources in support of FDA’s mission.

Office of Human Resources

The Office of Human Resources (OHR) strives to be a valued business partner with our FDA counterparts by providing 

services which promote collaboration and a work environment that is characterized by diversity, fairness, open 

communication, personal accountability, trust, and mutual respect.

Office of Information Management and Technology

The Office of Information Management and Technology (OIMT) provides the information, communication, and 

knowledge infrastructure and services that enhance, transform, and sustain the ability of the FDA to protect and

promote the public health.

Office of Safety, Security, and Crisis Management

The Office of Safety, Security, and Crisis Management (OSSCM) assures that FDA is supported in the areas of employee 

safety, environmental stewardship, personnel and physical security, and emergency management through a coordinated 

effort among these functional areas. This includes planning for continued operations in the face of a crisis and assuring 

that public health is protected to the greatest extent possible through coordinating emergency response activities involving 

FDA-regulated products.

Division of Ethics and Integrity

The Division of Ethics and Integrity (DEI) provides advice and assistance to FDA employees on a variety of ethics related 

matters including, but not limited to, financial disclosure, prohibited financial interests, outside activities, co-sponsorship 

agreements, and post-employment. The Ethics and Integrity Staff, in consult with attorneys from the Office of General 

Counsel and the Office of Government Ethics, works to prevent conflict of interests through aiding FDA employees in the 

interpretations including but not limited to the Standards of Ethical Conduct, HHS Supplemental Regulations 18 U.S.C. 

201-208, the Hatch Act, and the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act.
FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees 8

Office of Operations Employee Work Groups

Communications Advisory Group

The Communications Advisory Group (CAG) is a resource/workgroup that provides communications opportunities for OO 

staff, facilitates bottom-up communications from OO staff to senior leadership, and encourages cross-collaboration and 

knowledge sharing among the OO offices. It is charged with: 1) making recommendations to the OO senior leadership 

team on how to engage the workforce towards the goal of improving OO’s approaches and strategies in communicating 

information; 2) developing and implementing effective strategies to promote effective communication within OO and to 

our external customers; and 3) serving as a communication resource for OO staff whereby practical advice for engaging in 

professional effective communication is shared and adopted for the optimal delivery of information.

Organizational Health Index Management Advisory Group 

The Organizational Health Index Management Advisory Group (OHI MAG) was established to provide career 

development opportunities for aspiring leaders in the OO, facilitate bottom-up communication from OO staff to senior 

leadership, and encourage intra-OO collaboration and knowledge sharing. It is charged with making recommendations

to the OO senior leadership team on how to better engage the workforce towards the goal of improving OO’s performance 

and effectiveness as an organization, and with implementing approved projects.

Community of Interest—Performance and Data

The Community of Interest for Performance and Data (COI-PD) was established by the Office of Management to promote 

and optimize OO performance management capabilities. This COI-PD strives to maximize knowledge sharing and datadriven decisions by creating a forum for performance leads, points of contact, and novice data enthusiasts to:

1) facilitate timely reporting of performance information; 2) identify, enhance, and/or refine methods of data collection 

and analysis, including areas of overlap and opportunities for collaboration; 3) implement strategies to identify trends and 

cycles, evaluate operations, and support decision making; and 4) support the educational needs of individuals interested 

in performance and data.

Project Management Community of Practice

The Project Management Community of Practice (CoP) was established by the Office of Management to: 1) build a 

cohesive environment for FDA Project Managers (PMs) and other personnel who manage projects; 2) leverage PM skills 

through knowledge sharing; 3) address common problems experienced throughout the Office of the Commissioner; share 

methodologies and tools to empower FDA PMs; and recognize the service and efforts of FDA PMs. This CoP is open to 

current and future PMs, and those seeking to improve their project management skills.
9 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Employee 

Resource & 

Information 

Center

The Employee Resource & Information Center (ERIC) serves as a help desk, providing administrative and information 

technology services. ERIC will resolve customer inquiries and requests, eliminating the need to search for the right office 

or employee.

ERIC provides information and services on a variety of topics: 

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Acquisitions and Grants 

Building and Facilities Services

Central Mail Management 

eArrive 

Equal Employment Opportunity

and Diversity Management

Emerging Leaders Program

FDA Employee Locator

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FDA New Employee Orientation

Financial Services

Fleet Services

Integrated Time and Attendance System

Presidential Management Fellows Program 

Transhare Program 

Travel Services

ERIC Contact Information

Phone: (301) 827-ERIC (3742)

Toll-free: (866) 807-ERIC (3742)

Email: eric@fda.gov
FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees 10

FDA Visual Identity 

Program

The FDA's new Visual Identity Program is designed to give the Agency a consistent, recognizable, and distinct look. The 

new Visual Identity Design Style Guide covers the use of the FDA logo, colors, fonts, and other style elements. It provides 

guidelines for developing communications products consistent with The Visual Identity Initiative.

Visual Identity Program Resources
11 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Equal Employment 

Opportunity

Harassment Whistleblower Protection 

The Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 affords employees the legal protection to report allegations of 

official wrongdoing without fear of reprisal. Under the act employees and applicants are entitled to all the protection 

which prohibits retaliation for reporting waste, fraud, and abuse. This law preserves the integrity and high standards of 

the scientific processes that guide our agency. The FDA further supports the rights of all employees to engage in protected 

activity under current civil rights statutes and Executive Orders.

The U.S. Office of Special Counsel is empowered to administer an impartial and effective complaint management process 

to address complaints of whistleblower retaliation for most of the Executive Branch, including the FDA. Reprisal against 

individuals will not be tolerated for disclosure of information in which the employee believes there is reasonable belief of 

violation of any law, rule or regulation; gross mismanagement; gross waste of funds; abuse of authority; or a substantial 

and specific danger to public health or safety. Reprisal for whistleblowing includes taking or failing to take, or threatening 

to take a personnel action with respect to any employee because of a protected disclosure of information.

Whistleblower Protection Resources and Contact Information

Phone: (800) 872-9855

Office of Special Counsel Website

Reasonable Accommodations

A reasonable accommodation is any change or adjustment in the work environment or in the way that things are 

customarily done that would enable a qualified individual with a disability to enjoy equal employment opportunities.

For employees, there are two categories of reasonable accommodation. These are modifications or adjustments to the 

work environment, or to the manner or circumstances under which the position held or desired is customarily performed 

that enable a qualified individual with a disability to perform the essential functions of that position; and modifications or 

adjustments that enable employees with a disability to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed 

by other similarly situated employees without disabilities.

Reasonable Accommodations Contact Information

Phone:(301) 796-9400 

Email: ReasonableAccommodation@fda.hhs.gov
12 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

FDA Innovation 

Suite

The Office of Information Management and Technology (OIMT) Innovation Suite opened in 2015. It consists of the FDA 

Innovation Lab, AskIT Now Kiosk, OO Hoteling, and the Cyber Café.

FDA Innovation Lab

The FDA Innovation Lab offers a collaborative community of experienced professionals, seasoned subject matter experts, 

and budding technologists. Their focus areas include Cloud Services, Mobility, High Performance Computing, Data 

Analytics and Social Computing. The Lab is used to showcase new solutions, technologies, and processes, helping to foster 

a culture of innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing throughout the FDA community.

AskIT Now Kiosk 

The AskIT Now Kiosk is an on-site information technology services helpdesk that specializes in quick fix services for 

customers on the White Oak campus.

OO Hoteling

OO Hoteling is temporary office space available for use by off-site OO employees on days where they are meeting with 

customers at White Oak. Reservations can be made through the Event Management System.

Cyber Café 

The suite’s Cyber Café’ is a self-serve kiosk where employees visiting the FDA Innovation Suite area can purchase light 

snacks and beverages.

FDA Innovation Suite Information

Location: White Oak, Building 2, 3rd floor

Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ET

Monday through Friday; Technical support is available from 6:30 AM–6:30 PM ET
13 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Hazardous Weather 

and Emergency 

Situations

The Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has sole authority for deciding Federal leave policy during 

hazardous weather, and other emergency situations in the Washington, DC-metropolitan area. The OPM authorizes 

Federal Executive Boards to communicate Federal leave policy for regional locations where several Federal installations 

are present. Where there is no Federal Executive Board, the head of a work place (e.g., an OPDIV Head; Director of an 

FDA District Office; or the Regional Director) is authorized to issue Federal leave policy.

Operating Status Information

OPM Website
14 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

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Professional 

Development

FDA University

Training and development is key to helping individuals and groups develop skills and critical thinking, enhance 

communication, adjust to a changing environment, and enhance the quality of their work performance. To support high 

quality training and development, FDA University (FDAU) conducts and supervises all aspects of training including, but 

not limited to:

Developing training plans.

Identifying, coordinating, and developing training using innovative learning concepts and technology.

Collaborating with subject matter experts.

Tracking training using the Learning Management Systems. 

Collaborating with other organizational units to identify additional training needs. 

FDAU Contact Information

Phone: (240) 402-4888

Email: FDAUniversity@fda.hhs.gov

HHS Learning Management System 

The Learning Management System (LMS) is a software application for the administration, documentation, tracking, and 

reporting of training programs, classroom and online events, e-learning programs, and training content. Currently, the

LMS portal includes over 3,600 online courses, more than 19,000 downloadable books, as well as leadership videos and 

certification programs that are available online. The resources in the LMS span numerous topics, discipline areas and are 

applicable to HHS and FDA core, leadership and other key functional and technical competencies.

Access the HHS LMS to enroll in classes, check transcripts and access online learning materials.

Individual Development Plan 

The Individual Development Plan (IDP) is a valuable performance enhancement tool for any federal employee.

Its primary purpose is to help employees reach short- and long-term career goals, as well as improve current job 

performance. The IDP can greatly assist those who want to enhance their skills and strengths or learn more about subjects 

relevant to the performance of their job or organizational mission. An IDP is not a performance evaluation tool or a onetime activity. It should be looked at as a partnership between the employee and the supervisor to support and continue 

individual job growth and development.
15 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Pay and Leave

Integrated Time and Attendance System

The Integrated Time and Attendance System (ITAS) is a web-based payroll time and attendance system, which allows 

employees to request and track leave.

MyPay

MyPay is a component of the Defense Finance Accounting System (DFAS) that allows employees to see their Leave and 

Earning Statements, make changes to taxes, Thrift Savings Plan, allotments, and benefits. For employees new to the 

Federal government it will take six weeks to access this system. A password will be mailed to your home address.

Electronic Official Personnel Folder 

The Electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) is a file containing records that cover an individual's employment history.

The eOPF is the property of the OPM but is maintained within each servicing human resources office.

FDA Core Hours

The time during the workday, workweek, or pay period within the tour of duty during which an employee must be present 

for work at the permanent or temporary duty location. 

10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Tuesdays through Thursdays 

10:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Mondays and Fridays 
16 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Work Schedules

Your manager will discuss your work schedule with you. The ITAS work schedules are defined below:

Telework

Telework provides eligible managers and employees a flexibility that may help balance work/life while reducing 

commuting costs, pollution and decreasing the agency's space footprint. The OPM defines telework as "work 

arrangements in which an employee regularly performs officially assigned duties at home or other worksites 

geographically convenient to the residence of the employee." Telework (or flexi-place) is simply a way of getting 

work done from a different location.
17 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Annual Leave

Annual leave is available for vacations, rest and relaxation, and personal business or emergencies. An employee has a right 

to take annual leave, subject to the right of the supervisor to schedule the time at which annual leave may be taken. Annual 

leave is accrued.
FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees 18

Sick Leave

Sick leave is available for personal medical needs, care of a family member, and adoption-related purposes. Federal 

employees earn 4 hours of sick leave bi-weekly for a total of 13 days per year. Part time employees earn sick leave on a

pro-rated basis (1 hour for each 20 hours in a pay status).

Voluntary Leave Transfer Program 

One of the many work and family/life services available to employees is the Voluntary Leave Transfer Program (VLTP). It 

allows participating Federal employees to share their accrued annual leave with other employees who face economic 

hardship because of insufficient leave to cover a medical or family medical emergency.

Federal Holidays
19 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

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Insurance 

Programs

Federal Employee Health Benefits Program 

The Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) program is a voluntary health insurance program offered to permanent 

Federal employees and employees with appointments of more than one year. The program offers coverage under fee-forservice plans and health maintenance organizations (HMO) plans, as well as consumer-driven and high deductible plans.

Coverage is extended to retirees and dependents.

A summary of available plans and brochures from which you may choose are available on OPM's Federal Employees 

Health Benefits Program site. Times to enroll in FEHB include:

Within 60 calendar days of your appointment;

During Federal Benefits Open Season in November through December; or 

When you experience a Qualifying Life Event (QLE). Marriage or the birth of a child are two examples of QLEs. 

Retirement is not a QLE. Further details on life events are available on OPM's website.

Premium Conversion is a "pre-tax" arrangement under which the part of your salary that pays for health insurance 

premiums will be non-taxable. If you enroll in health insurance, you will be automatically enrolled in premium 

conversion, although you may waive this option. You can also use your Health Care Flexible Spending Account or

Limited Expense Health Care Flexible Spending Account with FEHB. Premiums for enrollment are shared with the

FDA or your retirement system.

Federal Employees’ Dental and Vision Insurance Program

The Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) is a voluntary program that provides you with 

supplemental dental and/or vision insurance coverage if your FEHB plan does not already include dental or vision 

insurance. Although separate from FEHB, FEDVIP is similar to FEHB in that it is subject to the same enrollment times.

Employees eligible for FEHB are eligible for FEDVIP, can use a Flexible Spending Account, and FEDVIP extends to most 

dependents. FEDVIP is always secondary to FEHB, and coordination of benefits with FEHB is required. Unlike

FEHB, there is no government contribution to FEDVIP—you pay the entire premium.
FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees 20

Federal Flexible Spending Accounts Program

The Federal Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAFEDS) program allows you to pay for certain health and dependent care 

expenses with pre-tax dollars, incur eligible expenses, and get reimbursed. You may choose to make a voluntary allotment 

from your salary to your FSAFEDS account. FSAFEDS is subject to Federal Benefits Open Season, but unlike FEHB and 

FEDVIP, enrollment is not continuous-you need to re-enroll every year. If you do not incur eligible expenses or file timely 

claims, you will lose your contribution to the account. All three FSAs have a minimum election of $250 and a maximum 

election of $5,000.

Health Care FSA (HCFSA) allows pre-tax reimbursement of eligible medical costs not covered or reimbursed by 

insurance, such as co- payments and over-the-counter medicines. Federal employees eligible for FEHB may enroll in the 

HCFSA. However, if you are enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan with a Health Savings Account, you cannot enroll 

in a HCFSA. You have the option of electing a LEX HCFSA (see below).

Limited Expense Health Care FSA (LEX HCFSA) is used in place of HCFSA if you are enrolled in a High Deductible 

Health Plan with a Health Savings Account. LEX HCFSA allows you to submit eligible dental and vision expenses only.

LEX HCSFA can be used in addition to the HCFSA.

Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA) allows pre-tax reimbursement for eligible dependent care expenses that are necessary 

to allow you or your spouse to work, look for work, or attend school full-time.

Federal Employee’s Group Life Insurance Program

The Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) program is a voluntary term life insurance program offered to 

permanent employees and employees with appointments of more than one year. The program offers Basic life insurance, 

with three types of additional optional insurance: Option A—Standard; Option B—Additional; and Option C—Family. It is 

not part of Federal Benefits Open Season. If you are a new Federal employee, you are automatically covered for Basic life 

insurance, and the appropriate cost for this coverage will be deducted from your pay beginning with your first paycheck 

unless you choose to waive coverage. If you wish to waive coverage, you must do so before the end of your first pay period.

You must have basic coverage if you wish to elect optional coverage. The Government pays one third of the cost of basic 

coverage, but none of the cost of optional coverage.

Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program

The Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) provides long-term care services such as home care, adult day 

care, and facility care. FLTCIP is not subject to Federal Benefits Open Season, and an application is required to enroll.

New Federal employees can have an abbreviated application within 60 days of their appointment date, while applications 

at other times require a longer application with a review of medical information. FLTCIP extends to a spouse, same-sex 

partner domestic partner, adult children, parents and parents-in-law (of employees only).
21 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Retirement

Federal Employee Retirement System

The Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) is a three-tiered retirement plan, which includes Social Security 

Benefits, the Basic Benefit Plan, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). As a Federal employee, you pay full Social Security 

taxes and a small contribution to the Basic Benefit Plan. In addition, the Government puts an amount equal to 1% of your 

basic pay each pay period into your TSP account. You are able to make tax-deferred contributions to the TSP, which are 

matched by the Government. If you are being rehired and worked in the federal government prior to December 31, 1983, 

you may be covered by the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or CSRS Offset. If this is the case, you should consult a 

benefits specialist.

Social Security Benefits 

Social Security is a national system of benefit payments to those who qualify under the Old Age Survivors and Disability 

Insurance (OASDI) programs of the Social Security Act. During working years, all working persons pay Social Security 

taxes. When their earnings stop, or are reduced due to retirement, disability, or death, monthly cash benefits are paid to 

replace part of the earnings the employee and the family have lost.

Basic Benefit Plan

The Basic Benefit Plan is a monthly annuity benefit, which is calculated as: the value of 1% of the average of your highest 

basic pay over three years ("high-3 average pay"), multiplied by your years of federal service. The plan includes survivor 

and disability benefits. Basic benefits can apply under the following conditions: immediately after retirement, postponed 

after retirement, early retirement, and deferred retirement. All conditions are subject to age and years of service 

qualifications. That is, if you retire before meeting age and years of service qualifications, your benefits will be reduced. To 

receive any benefits from the Basic Benefit Plan upon retirement, you must have at least 5 years of creditable civilian 

service. Survivor and disability benefits are available after 18 months of service. Your contribution to the Basic Benefit 

Plan is equal to the difference between 7% of your basic pay and Social Security's OASDI tax rate (0.80%). You can be 

refunded for your contributions if you leave Federal employment, however, you will no longer be eligible for benefits and 

you cannot redeposit your refund.
22 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Thrift Savings Plan 

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a tax-deferred retirement savings plan that resembles the private sector's 401(k) plans.

There are three types of contributions to the TSP: an automatic 1% agency contribution, employee contributions, and 

agency matching contributions. 

Your contributions to TSP are under your control and are optional. However, they are a major component of the 

retirement system. It should be noted that TSP contributions are made before Federal and most state income taxes are 

calculated, and that you are not taxed on earnings from TSP.
23 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Security and 

Badging

The purpose of your FDA badge is to ensure that only authorized personnel gain access to FDA facilities.

The badges are encoded to limit an individual's access to designated security areas. Card readers are 

grouped into "classes" that define the areas that individuals have access to. Your "class" is determined by

your security representative. 

You are required to wear your identification badge at all times while in FDA facilities. The badge must be displayed at or

above the waist in plain view. If you do not have your badge when you attempt to enter an FDA facility, a temporary 

visitor's badge will be issued to you on a daily basis.

If you lose your badge, immediately call the Personnel Security Branch, (301) 796-4592, so that it can be deactivated in the 

network security system to prevent unauthorized use.

FDA badges are issued for 5 years for employees.

FDA Badging Office Contact Information

Phone: (301) 796-4592

Email: fdabadging@fda.hhs.gov
24 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

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Sustainability 

Initiatives

Employee Commuting and Transportation at White Oak

FDA has excellent commuter services to assist you in commuting to White Oak.

Carpooling 

Vanpooling

Bicycling

Transit

FDA Shuttle

Ride Matching

Guaranteed Ride Home

Bicycle, Vanpool,

and Transit Subsidy

FDA Employee Transportation Contact Information

Phone: (301) 796-4124

Commuting and Transportation Website

FDA Recycling Program

The FDA Recycling Program at the White Oak Campus is focused on compliance with applicable federal, state and local 

laws, guidelines and Executive Orders to ensure recycling of mixed office paper, cardboard, plastic, glass, metal 

containers, and printer toner cartridges. 

FDA Supply Swap Program

The FDA Supply Swap Program gives FDA employees a tool to post, search and exchange free supplies and equipment in 

order to promote the reduction of waste and operational expenses. 
25 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

Transhare

The FDA Transhare Program is a transportation incentive program for FDA employees. 

The program offers transit subsidies to employees who commute to work by public transportation or registered vanpool.

The FDA Transhare Program is available to all FDA employees (including Commissioned Corps personnel). Please note 

that employees who hold a current HHS parking permit (vanpool permits will not be affected) must relinquish their 

parking privileges in order to receive a Transhare subsidy. 
26 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

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Worklife Programs Branch

WorkLife 4 You

A comprehensive set of services designed to help FDA employees achieve greater balance between their work and home 

lives. Services are voluntary and confidential, and are available to the employee and his or her household family members, 

all at no cost to the employee.

Program benefits include: 

Free Consultations and Personalized Referrals 

Educational Materials and Worklife Kits

WorkLife4You Website

WorkLife4You Contact Information

Phone: (800) 222-0364 

TTY: 1-(888) 262-7848

WorkLife4You Website

Employee Assistance Program

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential, no-cost services to employees and/or their dependents and 

household members on the White Oak Campus. Highly qualified, licensed professional counselors are also available in the 

Washington D.C. metropolitan area and throughout the country.

Services include:

Counseling Services: Short-term individual

and group counseling (up to 6 sessions)

Free Financial and Legal Services 

Health and Wellness Presentations 

Telephone Counseling and Crisis Assistance (24/7) 

Assessment, Referral, and Case Management

EAP Contact Information

Federal Occupational Health Website

For an appointment located at White Oak, you can call the National Service Center EAP at (800) 222-0364. 
27 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

FDA White Oak Classic 

The FDA White Oak Classic is an annual event which includes a 5K run and a 2.5-mile health walk. It is designed to 

promote healthy lifestyle activities and foster greater interaction among FDA staff.

Bring Your Child to Work Day 

Bring Your Child to Work Day (BYCTWD) encourages children to think about their future careers and get a glimpse of 

work life at the FDA. Children, ages 8 years to 18 years, and their parents are able to choose from seminars, activities, 

games, and tours on a first-come, first-served basis. This annual event occurs each April. 

FDA Nursing Mother's Program

The FDA University, Work Life Programs Branch has implemented a Nursing Mother’s Program for employees who return 

to work while continuing to breast-feed their babies. The program was developed to provide FDA's nursing mothers with a 

private, sanitary, onsite location to continue the benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and child without adding stress to 

their already busy life. There are eight locations on the White Oak campus.

Feds Feed Families Food Drive

Launched in 2009 as part of President Obama's United We Serve campaign, Feds Feed Families was designed to help

food banks and pantries stay stocked during summer months when they traditionally see a decrease in donations and an 

increase in need. In Washington, D.C., the Capital Area Food Bank receives collections and distributes them through its 

network of more than 500 partner organizations. Through the amazing generosity of federal employees, the food drive has 

collected nearly 39 million pounds of food for those in need since 2009. Last year alone, more than 14.8 million pounds 

were donated and provided to food banks and pantries. Even as the economy grows stronger, there are still too many 

people struggling to put food on the table. This annual event occurs from July to October.

FDA Employee Recreation Association

The FDA Employee Recreation Association sponsors a Farmer's Market, discounted tickets, bargain travel, and clubs. The 

Farmer's Market is open May through October, and provides employees the opportunity to sample local produce each 

Tuesday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Current clubs include:

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Golf club

Toastmasters club

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Volleyball and softball

Weight Watchers

White Oak Fitness Center

FDA and the Federal Occupational Health have partnered together and are prepared to help you with your fitness needs at 

the White Oak Fitness Center. The Fitness Center is equipped with the latest LifeFitness brand equipment, with a full line 

of cardiovascular, strength training and free- weight equipment. Various classes are offered including: 

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Abs and Lower Back

Body Pump

Boot Camp

CX Works 

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Strength Training

Yoga

Zumba

White Oak Fitness Center Contact Information

Phone: (301) 796-2334

Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM

Membership: Open to all badged FDA, GSA and AEDC personnel 
FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees 28

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White Oak Campus 

Information

CSU Occupational Health Center 

The CSU Occupational Health Center is an on-site health clinic that is open Monday through Friday,

from 8:00 AM–4:30 PM

Services include:

Access to on-site first aid and urgent care services

Onsite clinical care, referral and follow-up

Immunizations

Treatments prescribed by private physicians

Health risk appraisals

Health screenings

Health counseling

Health and wellness education

Lactation facilities

CSU Occupational Health Center Contact Information:

Phone: (301) 796-2331

White Oak Conference Rooms 

Conference rooms located on the White Oak campus can be reserved through the FDA Event Management System (EMS). 

This virtual system is designed to handle conference room reservations, requests for AV services, and is an easy way to 

view your currently scheduled events.

White Oak Art Gallery 

The White Oak Art Gallery, adjacent to the Building 32 cafeteria, is intended to showcase original art produced by FDA 

employees, their families, and members of the local community.

The exhibits include paintings, photography, sculpture, and crafts, and will be alternated approximately three times a year 

to give all White Oak artists the opportunity to display their work. Participating artists are not allowed to sell their artwork 

on the FDA premises, but point-of-contact information is available in the on-line show catalog. 

White Oak Art Gallery Committee Contact Information

Email: WOArtGallery@fda.hhs.gov
29 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

FedFinancial Federal Credit Union

The FedFinancial Federal Credit Union (FCU) was founded in 1935 under the name Public Health Service Federal Credit 

Union, serving a subset of employees of what is now the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Today, they

serve all U.S. civilian government employees, retirees, their family members and housemates throughout the Washington

D.C. and Baltimore, MD metropolitan areas. The credit union is a full-service financial institution, offering savings, 

checking, credit cards, mortgages, home equity loans, home equity lines of credit, auto loans and more.

FedFinancial FCU Contact Information

Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

(Except every 4th Wednesday: 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM) 

FedFinancial Website

White Oak Campus Security

The White Oak Campus Security should be notified of:

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Malfunctioning doors, card readers, cameras, etc.

Theft of or damage of government property

Receipt of a suspicious package

Suspicious activity or other security concerns.

Always call 911 first for serious, life threatening emergencies. Follow up with a call to the FDA Security Command Center.

FDA Security Command Center Contact Information:

Phone: (301) 796-2409
FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees 30

White Oak Campus Food Services
31 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees

White Oak Campus Map
32 FDA Office of Operations | Guide for Employees