FEDERAL MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH 

REVIEW COMMISSION

COVID-19 WORKPLACE SAFETY PLAN

JULY 2022

Supersedes: 

January 2022 COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan

Prepared by: Approved by: ________________________ 

Leslie C. Bayless Arthur R. Traynor III

Chief Operating Officer Chair
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SUMMARY OF RECENT CHANGES ....................................................................................... 4

1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................. 5

2. AUTHORITIES ................................................................................................................. 5

3. PURPOSE AND SCOPE................................................................................................... 7

4. COVID-19 COORDINATION TEAM.............................................................................. 7

5. PANDEMIC OPERATIONS............................................................................................. 8

A. CDC Community Levels.................................................................................................... 8

B. Telework ............................................................................................................................ 8

C. Office Occupancy and Safety............................................................................................. 8

D. Hearings............................................................................................................................. 9

E. Oral Arguments and Public Meetings................................................................................ 9

F. Official Travel.................................................................................................................... 9

G. Commuting ...................................................................................................................... 11

H. Reasonable Accommodation............................................................................................ 11

I. Confidentiality and Medical Privacy ............................................................................... 11

6. FACILITIES .................................................................................................................. 12

A. Building Management Initiatives..................................................................................... 12

B. Ventilation and Air Filtration........................................................................................... 12

C. Environmental Cleaning .................................................................................................. 13

D. Elevators .......................................................................................................................... 13

E. Admitting Visitors, Parties, Witnesses and Attorneys..................................................... 14

F. Shared Spaces .................................................................................................................. 15

G. Use of PPE & Cleaning Supplies..................................................................................... 15

7. PROTOCOLS ................................................................................................................ 16

A. Masks............................................................................................................................... 16

B. Employee and Contractor Vaccinations........................................................................... 17

C. Physical Distancing.......................................................................................................... 18

D. Screening Testing............................................................................................................. 19

E. Diagnostic Testing ........................................................................................................... 20

F. Contact Tracing................................................................................................................ 21
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G. Exposure Notification ...................................................................................................... 21

H. Quarantine........................................................................................................................ 21

I. Isolation............................................................................................................................ 23

J. General Safety Precautions and Hygiene......................................................................... 24

APPENDIX A: CDC Community Level Protocols.................................................................... 25

APPENDIX B: Certification of Vaccination Form (Sample)..................................................... 26

APPENDIX C: FMSHRC COVID-19 Screening Tool (Sample)............................................... 29

APPENDIX D: CDC Close Contact Infographic ....................................................................... 31

APPENDIX E: CDC Isolation & Quarantine Infographic ......................................................... 32
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SUMMARY OF RECENT CHANGES

Updates as of March 2022:

1. Update to employee vaccination requirement in E.O. 14043 and contractor vaccination 

requirement in E.O. 14042 due to an injunction issued by a federal court.

2. Update to masking policy to align with the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Level Model.

3. Update to testing policy to align with the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Level Model.

4. Update to physical distancing policy to align with CDC guidance on being up to date on 

COVID-19 vaccines.

Updates as of June 2022:

1. Update to CDC guidance on quarantine and isolation.

2. Update to official travel and diagnostic testing requirements based on new quarantine and 

isolation guidance.

3. Update to masking policy on government operated conveyances pursuant to E.O. 13991. 
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1. INTRODUCTION

The Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission (FMSHRC) is committed to 

protecting the health and safety of its workforce during the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) 

pandemic while continuing the Agency’s mission. The guidance and information in this work 

safety plan replaces any prior guidance and information, will be periodically reviewed and 

may be updated as necessary to remain current with changing public health conditions and 

additional guidance from the President’s Safer Federal Workforce Task Force1. 

President Biden created the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force to give the heads of federal 

agencies ongoing guidance to keep their employees safe and their agencies operating during 

the COVID-19 pandemic. This task force is composed of the White House COVID-19 

Response Team, the General Services Administration (GSA), and the Office of Personnel 

Management (OPM). Task Force members include: the Centers for Disease Control and 

Prevention (CDC), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Federal Emergency 

Management Agency (FEMA), the Federal Protective Service, the Office of Management 

and Budget (OMB), and the United States Secret Service. The FMSHRC Team, described 

more fully below in Section IV, will direct implementation of Safer Federal Workforce Task 

Force guidance to maintain the health and safety of the FMSHRC workforce while protecting 

the privacy of all personnel. 

2. AUTHORITIES

Federal guidance issued to date includes: 

A. On January 21, 2021, President Biden released the National Strategy for the COVID-19 

Response and Pandemic Preparedness2

. The National Strategy initiates a coordinated 

pandemic response that not only improves the effectiveness of the country’s fight against 

COVID-19 but also helps restore trust, accountability, and a sense of common purpose in 

the federal response to the pandemic. 

B. On January 20, 2021, the President issued Executive Order 13991: Protecting the Federal 

Workforce and Requiring Mask Wearing3 instructing agencies to immediately require 

masks and physical distancing measures in all federal buildings consistent with current 

CDC guidance.

C. On January 24, 2021, OMB issued guidance, M-21-15 COVID-19 Safe Federal

Workplace: Agency Model Safety Principles4

, to assist federal agencies in developing 

tailored COVID-19 workplace safety plans.

D. On April 7, 2021, The CDC issued the Federal Testing Plan for Federal Workforce5. This 

guidance provides federal agencies with strategies for incorporating SARS-CoV-2 testing

into their COVID-19 workplace safety plan.

1 See https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/ 2 See https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/National-Strategy-for-the-COVID-19-Response-and-Pandemic-Preparedness.pdf 3 See https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/20/executive-order-protecting-the-federal-workforce-andrequiring-mask-wearing/ 4 See https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/M-21-15.pdf 5 See https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/downloads/Federal%20Testing%20Recommendations%20FINAL.pdf
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E. On June 10, 2021, OMB issued guidance, M-21-25: Integrating Planning for A Safe 

Increased Return of Federal Employees and Contractors to Physical Workplaces with 

Post-Reentry Personnel Policies and Work Environment6 to provide agencies with 

guidance for agency planning processes for post-reentry personnel policies and work 

environment.

F. On September 9, 2021, the President issued an Executive Order on Requiring 

Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination for Federal Employees7. This order requires

COVID-19 vaccination for Federal executive branch employees.

G. On September 9, 2021, the President issued an Executive Order on Ensuring Adequate 

COVID Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors8. It ensures that the parties that contract

with the Federal Government provide adequate COVID-19 safeguards to their workers 

performing on or in connection with a Federal Government contract or contract-like

instrument.

H. On September 13, 2021, the COVID-19 Workplace Safety: Agency Model Safety

Principles9 was issued. It outlines model safety principles for executive departments and

agencies to revise their existing COVID-19 workplace safety plans.

I. On November 10, 2021, the COVID-19 Workplace Safety: Guidance for Federal

Contractors and Subcontractors10 was issued. It sets forth workplace safety protocols for 

Federal contractors and subcontractors pursuant to Executive Order 14042.

J. On December 27, 2021, the Updated CDC Guidance on Isolation and Quarantine11 was 

issued. It shortens the recommended isolation and quarantine period for the general 

population.

K. On February 25, 2022, the CDC set new recommendations related to Covid-19 

Community Levels. Up to date guidance regarding the CDC’s COVID-19 Community 

Level Model can be found at the CDC COVID Data Tracker12.

6 See https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/M-21-25.pdf 7 See https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/09/09/executive-order-on-requiring-coronavirus-disease-2019-

vaccination-for-federal-employees/ 8 See https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/09/09/executive-order-on-ensuring-adequate-covid-safety-protocolsfor-federal-contractors/ 9 See https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/downloads/updates%20to%20model%20safety%20principles%209.13.21.pdf 10 See 

https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/downloads/Guidance%20for%20Federal%20Contractors_Safer%20Federal%20Workforce%20Task%20

Force_20211110.pdf

11 See https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1227-isolation-quarantine-guidance.html 12 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/science/community-levels.html
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3. PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The primary purpose of this policy is to provide minimum mandatory safety guidance for

FMSHRC personnel through the implementation of CDC guidelines at all FMSHRC 

facilities. The goal is to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 for employees, contractors and 

guests who periodically visit the Federal workplace. This guidance applies to GSA-leased 

buildings at headquarters and satellite offices.

4. COVID-19 COORDINATION TEAM

The FMSHRC COVID-19 Coordination Team (“FMSHRC Team”) consists of Senior

Management at FMSHRC, which are the Chair, Chief Operating Officer, Chief 

Administrative Law Judge, General Counsel, Counsel to the Chair, and the EEO Director. 

The CDC has assigned personnel with technical expertise to consult with the 

FMSHRC Team:

• Cristina Bressler, Health Scientist, Occupational Health and Safety Office, Office of

Safety, Security, and Asset Management (OSSAM) Chair

The FMSHRC Team will meet regularly to review compliance with agency COVID-19 

workplace safety plans and protocols, consider potential revisions to agency COVID-19 

workplace safety plans and protocols, and address any other operational needs. As all 

FMSHRC offices are in GSA-leased space, the FMSHRC Team coordinates with GSA and 

building management’s security and safety personnel at all locations.
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5. PANDEMIC OPERATIONS

A. CDC Community Levels

Workplace safety protocols and protective measures follow the CDC’s new 

recommendations on COVID-19 Community Levels13, which measure the impact of 

COVID-19 illness on health and healthcare systems for each county in the United 

States. Community levels are determined using the CDC COVID Data Tracker14, which 

rates the county-level data from LOW to MEDIUM to HIGH. Personnel may utilize 

that data in determining the community level for their worksite by looking at the county 

in which the agency facility is located. The agency will monitor the community level 

status weekly to implement requirements on masking, testing, physical distancing, and 

vaccination attestation (See Appendix A). 

B. Telework

As a general principle, FMSHRC is prepared to maximize telework should it be 

warranted by future conditions. 

FMSHRC offices have been officially open since December 17, 2021, and employees are 

permitted to return to their offices for in-person work once they have attended a Reentry

Committee orientation and, if applicable, executed a Telework Agreement. However, due 

to elevated rates of community transmission at each of the agency’s three office locations, 

during the Winter of 2022, employees were permitted and encouraged to continue fulltime emergency telework through March 31, 2022. 

Supervisors are responsible for ensuring personnel under their supervision remain

productive while teleworking. The FMSHRC Telework Program policy has been updated

effective January 3, 2022 and distributed to all employees.

C. Office Occupancy and Safety

Occupancy in agency facilities should be no more than 25% of normal capacity during 

HIGH community levels. The agency will meet this requirement by maintaining 

emergency telework authorization during such periods. If an exception to the 25% 

occupancy needs to be made, it must be pre-approved by the FMSHRC Team.

Employees and contractors performing duties at an agency office must do all they can to 

keep themselves and their co-workers safe when they are present in the workplace. This

includes adhering to the “General Safety Precautions” in Section 7-J and “Use of Personal 

Protective Equipment (PPE) and Cleaning Supplies” in Section 6-G. 

An industrial hygienist inspected all agency facilities to ensure compliance with 

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and provide 

recommendations on mitigating the risk of COVID-19 transmission in the workplace. 

The Pittsburgh Office was inspected on November 29, 2021, the Denver Office was 

inspected on November 30, 2021, and the agency’s Headquarters in Washington, DC was 

inspected on January 31, 2022. The agency is committed to implementing the 

13 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/science/community-levels.html 14 See https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view?list_select_state=all_states&list_select_county=all_counties&datatype=CommunityLevels
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recommendations in the industrial hygienist reports to ensure the health and safety of

agency personnel. For any questions on the recommendations, please contact

reentry@fmshrc.org.

D. Hearings

All in-person hearings, settlement judge conferences, and mediations were suspended 

from March of 2020 through January 2, 2022. Effective January 3, 2022, FMSHRC 

Judges are authorized to schedule in-person hearings (or partial hearings) consistent 

with the safety guidelines and other provisions of the Chief Judge’s December 3, 2021, 

Order. Additional orders may extend or modify the hearing requirements to be 

consistent with the changing safety guidelines. Judges are discouraged from setting inperson hearings in areas where the CDC COVID Data Tracker15 reports HIGH

community levels in the county in which the hearing is to be held or where any 

necessary in-person participant resides. 

At the discretion of the presiding administrative law judge and in coordination with the 

parties, hearings may proceed by videoconference or by telephone. Similarly, settlement 

judge conferences and mediations may be held by videoconference or by telephone. If

the parties agree that an evidentiary hearing is not needed, cases may also be presented 

for a decision on the record. The parties will be notified if a hearing needs to be 

rescheduled.

The FMSHRC Team will continue to assess risks presented by in-person hearings and

the effectiveness of video or telephone hearings and will continue to consult with the 

Office of the Chief Administrative Law Judge (OCALJ) to review policies as

appropriate. 

E. Oral Arguments and Public Meetings

In view of the risks presented by COVID-19, the FMSHRC Team suspended inperson oral arguments and public meetings from March 2020 through January 2, 

2022. 

At the discretion of the Office of the General Counsel and in coordination with the 

FMSHRC Team, oral arguments and public meetings will continue to proceed by 

videoconference or by telephone. In-person oral arguments and public meetings at the 

agency’s headquarters will not take place when Covid-19 community levels are HIGH for 

Washington, DC as determined via the CDC COVID Data Tracker16. 

F. Official Travel 

Overall, Federal employees should adhere strictly to CDC guidance for domestic17 and 

international18 travel before, during, and after official travel. The CDC also recommends 

that individuals make sure they are up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before travel, to 

consider being tested for current infection with a viral test as close to the time of 

departure as possible (no more than three days) before travel, and to check their 

15 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/science/community-levels.html 16 Id. 17 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html 18 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html
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destination’s COVID-19 situation before traveling, including any State, Tribal, local, and 

territorial governments travel restrictions. Additional resources for official travel can be 

found on the GSA COVID-19 Information Site19. 

There are no Government-wide limits on official travel for Federal employees, regardless 

of their vaccination status. However, some restrictions to official travel may apply if an 

employee has had a known close contact with someone with COVID-19, developed 

symptoms, or has probable or confirmed COVID-19 before or during official travel, 

including return travel. Furthermore, quarantine and isolation guidelines must be 

followed that differ for those individuals who are up to date on their vaccinations, those 

who had confirmed COVID-19 within the last 90 days, and those who are not up to date 

with vaccines (See Sections 7-H and 7-I). 

If an individual has had a known close contact with someone with COVID-19, is not 

recommended to quarantine, and has had confirmed COVID-19 within the previous 90 

days, then official travel is approved, consistent with the agency’s travel policy. 

However, they must follow quarantine guidelines and wear a well-fitting mask when 

around others for the duration of the travel that falls within the 10 days after the close 

contact (date of exposure is considered day 0). 

If an individual has had a known close contact, is not recommended to quarantine due to 

being up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and has not had confirmed COVID-19 within 

the previous 90 days, then only mission-critical official travel will be approved during 

days 1-5 after the close contact (date of exposure is considered day 0). No travel 

restrictions apply after Day 5, but individuals must follow quarantine guidelines and 

receive a diagnostic test at least five full days after the close contact, as well as wear a 

well-fitting mask when around others for the duration of the travel that falls within the 10 

days after the close contact. They should also consider getting tested for current infection 

with a diagnostic test as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than one day) 

before travel.

If an individual has had a known close contact and is recommended to quarantine due to 

not being up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, then official travel will not be approved 

for up to 10 days after the close contact (date of exposure is considered day 0). Only 

official travel that is urgent, necessary, and mission-critical may be approved during days 

6-10 and will require individuals to be tested 5 days after the close contact and before 

undertaking official travel in accordance with quarantine guidelines. They must also wear 

a well-fitting mask when around others for the duration of the travel that falls within the 

10 days after the last close contact.

Should any individual regardless of vaccination status develop COVID-19 symptoms or 

receive a positive test result, then official travel will not be approved for at least 10 full 

days after their first day of symptoms, or after the date of a positive viral test for 

asymptomatic individuals. They must also follow guidelines on isolation and testing 

before official travel will be approved. Any employees who are travelling with the 

individual who has probable or confirmed COVID-19 may be restricted from traveling 

and should follow guidelines for quarantine. 

19 See https://www.gsa.gov/governmentwide-initiatives/emergency-response/covid19-coronavirus
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In any of these circumstances before or during official travel, including return travel, the 

agency will be responsible for all costs associated with travel and lodging expenses, as 

well as the cost of any diagnostic testing. 

G. Commuting

Personnel using public transportation to commute to and from the workplace must follow 

all federal, state, and local COVID-19 guidance governing these services. If a mass 

transit agency has limited the services it provides such that it will impact a person’s 

ability to travel to and from the office in a timely manner, that person should notify their 

supervisor and an adjustment to their work schedule may be approved at the supervisor’s 

discretion. 

H. Reasonable Accommodation 

A reasonable accommodation under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Americans with 

Disabilities Act of 1990 includes modification to a workplace policy due to a disabilityrelated need of a FMSHRC employee. Reasonable accommodations may be required and 

provided to employees working from home. Accommodations may relate to COVID-19 

itself if an employee acquires the illness and needs modifications to perform the essential 

functions of their position. Additionally, accommodations may relate to other medical 

conditions, unrelated to COVID-19, but which impact an employee’s ability to perform 

the essential functions of their position. Employees should contact their supervisors and 

the Disability Program Coordinator, Michelle Williams (mwilliams@fmshrc.gov) to 

determine whether, and what, accommodations may be provided. 

I. Confidentiality and Medical Privacy

All medical information collected from personnel, including test results and any other 

information obtained because of testing and symptom monitoring, will be treated 

confidentially in accordance with applicable law. This information will be accessible only 

by those with a need to know to protect the health and safety of personnel and manage 

COVID-19 protocols. The point of contact for all questions relating to personal medical 

data at FMSHRC is the Senior Agency Officer of Privacy, Leslie Bayless 

(lbayless@fmshrc.gov). Medical information requested and provided pursuant to a 

request for reasonable accommodation will be handled consistent with FMSHRC policy 

on reasonable accommodation. 
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6. FACILITIES

A. Building Management Initiatives

1. Headquarters Office – National Place Building Management will continue to work 

diligently to ensure the safety of all building tenants and visitors. Below is a summary

of the key elements of their approach.

General Building Health and Safety Plan:

a. Signage is posted throughout the building reminding tenants and visitors about the 

CDC’s recommendations and local mandates on masking, physical distancing,

hand hygiene, and the symptoms of COVID-19.

b. There are enhanced tenant and visitor management guidelines, and security desks 

are retrofitted with screen shields to protect tenants, visitors, and staff.

c. Hand sanitizers are available throughout common areas and at points of access, 

including elevators.

2. Denver Satellite Office – This facility is managed by GSA. Building management

staff will continue to clean the facility according to CDC guidelines. Employees

should comply with any building management guidelines requiring the wearing of

facemasks and physical distancing in lobbies, stairwells, and all other common areas. 

GSA staff will continue to take the following safety measures:

a. Require use of facemasks while in common areas of the building.

b. Consistently sanitize common areas(elevators, doors, handrails, etc.)

c. Require physical distancing.

3. Pittsburgh Satellite Office – MSREP Building Management will continue to work

diligently to ensure the safety of all building tenants and visitors by adhering to CDC

guidelines, including steps to ensure that:

a. Signage is posted throughout the building reminding tenants and visitors about the 

CDC’s recommendations and local mandates on masking, physical distancing,

hand hygiene, and the symptoms of COVID-19.

b. Hand sanitizers are available throughout common areas and at points of access,

including elevators.

B. Ventilation and Air Filtration

To the extent feasible, FMSHRC management will work with GSA-leased building 

management offices for all locations to ensure that heating, and air conditioning systems

optimize indoor ventilation and filtration. These include:

1. Ongoing inspections and maintenance of all building systems to confirm that they 

remain in good working order and are operating properly.

2. Programming bathroom exhaust fans to operate continuously.
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3. Completing a total air-flushing of the building and confirming that the heating, 

ventilation, and air conditioning system will continue to operate with high-efficiency

filters 24/7 during the week, with additional external air brought into the building on

a continuous basis.

C. Environmental Cleaning

Best-practice protocols described below are in place for cleaning and disinfection to help 

minimize any contamination of surfaces (fomites), particularly common area high 

touchpoints (i.e., doorknobs, handrails, elevator cabs, turnstiles, kiosks, and parking pay 

stations).

Enhanced cleaning in common use/high touch/high density spaces, such as lobbies, 

restrooms, copier and printer areas, kitchenettes, elevators, and stairwells will be 

conducted by janitorial personnel. Office space that is in regular use will be cleaned 

regularly, and in accordance with CDC guidelines. Wipes and other EPA-approved 

disinfectants will be made available for individuals to wipe down their workstations and 

related personal property. Gloves and other appropriate PPE will be made available to

workers using cleaning supplies.

In the event of a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 in the workplace,

environmental cleaning will be performed in accordance with CDC and GSA guidance,

as follows:

1. If fewer than 24 hours have passed since the person who is sick or diagnosed with 

COVID-19 has been in the space, cleaning personnel will clean and disinfect the

space.

2. If more than 24 hours have passed since the person who is sick or diagnosed with

COVID-19 has been in the space, cleaning is enough. Cleaning personnel may choose

to also disinfect.

3. If more than 3 days have passed since the person who is sick or diagnosed with

COVID-19 has been in the space, no additional cleaning (beyond regular cleaning

practices) is needed.

Cleaning will be coordinated with the respective building management in the GSA-leased 

buildings that the agency occupies at headquarters and satellite locations. Personnel and 

visitors may be asked to vacate the affected space until cleaning or disinfection is 

completed.

D. Elevators

Everyone must wear masks in elevators and in elevator lobbies when community levels 

are HIGH or required by building management. Where possible, signage will be posted to 

explain current procedures at all locations. At headquarters, National Place building 

management has provided signage at the two elevator bays that enable access to our 

office suites.
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E. Admitting Visitors, Parties, Witnesses and Attorneys

When community levels are MEDIUM or HIGH, visitors will be asked to attest to their 

vaccination status to enter an agency facility. A completed Certification of Vaccination 

Form20 must be presented to the FMSHRC employee responsible for hosting them (See

Appendix B). All visitors must keep their Certification of Vaccination form with them 

while accessing the facility. 

Visitors who are not fully vaccinated or who decline to provide information about their 

vaccination status must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test from no later than the 

previous three days prior to entry to an agency facility. The cost of such testing is the 

responsibility of the visitor. Such visitors must also comply with requirements applicable 

to unvaccinated employees, including physical distancing and use of a facemask.

Non-government witnesses and parties (e.g., operators and individual miner 

complainants) and their attorneys are not considered “visitors” for the purpose of this 

policy because they are persons seeking a public benefit or service from the agency - e.g., 

hearing, oral argument, mediation, etc. Such persons do not need to attest to their 

vaccination status or provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test from no later than the 

previous 3 days prior to entry to an agency facility to attend a hearing or other FMSHRC 

proceeding in their case(s) but must adhere to all other applicable safety guidelines and 

direction while accessing the facility. 

Delivery drivers, couriers, U.S. Postal Service, Federal Express and United Parcel 

Service employees, and other “transient visitors”, meaning visitors accessing a facility for 

less than approximately 15 minutes who interact with very few people, are not required to 

attest to their vaccination status by presenting a completed Certification of Vaccination 

Form as a condition of entry. They are required to follow required safety protocols while 

accessing the facility, such as mask wearing and physical distancing. 

Additionally, emergency personnel responding to an emergency in a facility, as 

determined by GSA, a facility’s security officers, or individual occupant agencies within 

a facility, are not required to present a completed Certification of Vaccination Form as a 

condition of entry. They are required to follow required safety protocols while accessing

the facility.

Whether symptom screening is required for visitors depends on the community levels 

reported by the CDC COVID Data Tracker21. During LOW community levels, symptom 

screening will not be required at agency facilities. However, during MEDIUM or HIGH 

community levels symptom screening will be required for all visitors, and individuals 

seeking a public benefit, who must present a completed FMSHRC COVID-19 Screening 

Tool22 (See Appendix C). 

20 See Z:\COVID-19 Workplace Safety Forms 21 See https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#datatracker-home 22 See Z:\COVID-19 Workplace Safety Forms
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F. Shared Spaces

FMSHRC will plan for controls that help prevent the spread of COVID-19 infection 

through shared spaces and equipment. The surface transmission of COVID-19 via 

surfaces is extremely low. A major source of transmission are droplets. See How 

COVID-19 Spreads, CDC, July 13, 202123. The CDC recommends routine cleaning once 

a day as sufficient to remove the virus that may be on surfaces. See Building Operations, 

Safer Federal Workforce24; Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility, CDC, Nov. 15, 

202125. Shared tools and equipment may be disinfected by users anytime the equipment 

is used by or transferred to a new person, and disinfectant wipes will be provided. This 

includes phones, computers and other communication devices, kitchen appliances, and 

other office equipment. Refrigerators, water coolers, and coffee brewers with disposable 

cups (or a personal re-usable cup/container) and single serve condiments and creamers 

may be used with proper hand hygiene. Visual markers will be installed to promote 

physical distancing within common spaces, and furniture may be removed or disabled. 

Steps may be taken to limit the number of people who can use common spaces at any one 

time, and signage outlining these limits will be prominently displayed. 

G. Use of PPE & Cleaning Supplies

Agency provided cleaning supplies will be made available for use in central locations 

throughout the workplace to enhance safety and cleaning efforts. Employees and 

contractors may clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using the 

agency-provided cleaning supplies. 

Personnel may not remove any agency-provided supplies from workspaces and common 

areas. Employees should be courteous and responsible – and not use more supplies and 

PPE than needed to perform their duties safely. Employees must remember that the use of 

PPE is most effective when used in combination with physical distancing measures. All

used PPE must be discarded in a standard trash receptacle.

23 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-covid-spreads.html 24 See https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/faq/building-ops/ 25 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/disinfecting-building-facility.html
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7. PROTOCOLS

A. Masks

FMSHRC follows CDC recommendations and Safer Federal Workforce Task Force 

guidance on masking, which are determined by the community levels found in the CDC 

COVID Data Tracker26. Individuals can wear a mask if they choose regardless of 

COVID-19 Community Levels and consistent with agency protocols. Individuals have a 

personal responsibility to maintain awareness of the COVID-19 Community Levels. 

Where community levels are HIGH, all Federal employees, onsite contractors, and 

visitors, regardless of vaccination status, must consistently wear a mask inside federal 

facilities or workspaces. This includes open floor plan office space, cubicle 

embankments, and conference rooms, as well as in high traffic areas (e.g., hallways, 

kitchens, and lobbies). Personnel will be required to use face masks when interacting 

with others, for instance, in conference room meetings and in offices where physical 

distancing cannot be achieved. Masks should also be worn consistently in any common 

areas in leased spaces such as building lobbies and elevators. 

The following are exceptions – when masks do not need to be worn during HIGH 

community levels:

1. When an individual is alone in an office or for a limited time when eating or drinking 

and maintaining distancing in accordance with CDC guidelines. 

2. When no more than two individuals are in an office with a closed door and seated

with at least 10 feet of physical distance between them (provided, however, that both 

persons must consent to removing their masks and both persons mustbe fully 

vaccinated). 

3. Where an individual with sensory, cognitive, or behavior issues who is unable to wear 

a mask properly or cannot tolerate a mask has received a special accommodation. A 

special accommodation will be made for individuals with required documentation 

from their doctor in accordance with Equal Opportunity Employment Commission 

guidance. 

When community levels are MEDIUM or LOW, masks are not required in federal 

facilities regardless of vaccination status, except where required by other Federal, State, 

local, Tribal, or territorial laws, rules, or regulations. Also, all FMSHRC employees are 

required to adhere to any face mask requirement implemented in lobbies, elevators, and 

other common areas of the buildings where FMSHRC facilities are located.

Consistent with CDC guidance for the indoor transportation corridor and public 

transportation conveyances, individuals must wear well-fitting masks when in 

Government-operated aircraft, boats and other maritime transportation conveyances, and 

buses with multiple occupants. Mask-wearing is not required for outdoor areas of 

conveyances, if any. Mask-wearing in these Government-operated conveyances is not 

required if there is a single occupant or if the occupants are all co-habitants.

26 See https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#datatracker-home
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Additionally, all individuals must continue to follow current CDC guidelines on 

quarantine and isolation as it relates to wearing a mask. Generally, individuals are 

required to wear a mask for 10 days after known close contact to someone with COVID19 and for five days when returning to work after isolation. The CDC recommends that 

individuals wear a mask during their isolation period (See Sections 7-H and 7-I). 

If needed, the agency will provide washable and reusable masks and/or disposable masks 

to employees, contractors, and visitors, in accordance with OSHA and CDC guidelines, 

to the extent permitted by law and subject to the availability of appropriations and 

resources.

Masks must fit properly, which means snugly around the nose and chin with no large 

gaps around the sides of the face. Non-medical disposable masks are permitted, as are

masks made of two or more layers of breathable fabric, such as cotton, that is tightly 

woven (i.e., fabrics that do not let light pass through when held up to a light source). 

Novelty/non-protective masks, including neck gaiters and bandanas, masks with 

ventilation valves, or face shields as a substitute for masks will not be permitted in the 

federal workplace. 

B. Employee and Contractor Vaccinations 

Employees and contractors will be considered fully vaccinated for COVID-19 two weeks 

after they have received the requisite number of doses of a vaccine approved or 

authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or that 

has been listed for emergency use by the World Health Organization. The current 

definitions of fully vaccinated individuals and individuals who are up to date on their 

vaccination are available on the CDC website27. 

The employee vaccination requirement in Executive Order 14043 and the contractor 

vaccination requirement in Executive Order 14042 are the subject of an injunction issued 

by a Federal court. In accordance with OMB Guidance, and pending further notice, 

FMSHRC will take no action to enforce the vaccination requirements in those executive 

orders. Pending employee requests for medical or religious exemptions to the vaccination 

requirement are held in abeyance so long as the nationwide injunction is in place. 

The injunction does not prohibit the agency from requesting information regarding 

employee vaccination status for the purposes of implementing workplace safety 

protocols, such as protocols related to masking, physical distancing, testing, travel, and 

quarantine and isolation. The agency will continue to request information on vaccinations 

status, as needed, to implement workplace safety protocols. 

The Safer Federal Workforce Task Force’s guidance for COVID-19 workplace safety 

protocols for Federal agencies, which apply in all Federal buildings and federally

controlled facilities, remains unchanged. Contractor employees working onsite in those 

facilities must still follow the agency’s workplace safety protocols including completing 

the Certification of Vaccination Form and participating in the agency’s testing program. 

27 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html
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All full-time and intermittent contractors must attest to their vaccination status to enter an 

agency facility when community levels are MEDIUM or HIGH. They must present a 

completed Certification of Vaccination Form28 to the FMSHRC employee responsible for 

supervising them (See Appendix B). However, the agency will not collect the attestation 

form or ask for documentation to verify the attestation. 

Full-time contractors may attest to their vaccination status once and update the FMSHRC 

employee responsible for supervising them as needed. The full-time contractors who are 

not fully vaccinated or who decline to provide information about their vaccination status 

must participate in the agency’s testing program. 

Intermittent contractors who are not fully vaccinated or who decline to provide 

information about their vaccination status and do not participate in the agency’s testing 

program must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test from no later than the previous 

three days prior to entry to an agency facility. 

To promote the safety of our workforce and public we serve, FMSHRC will grant 

employees who decide to receive an eligible vaccine, or a vaccine booster, up to four 

hours of administrative leave for the time it takes to obtain a dose. Four hours of 

administrative leave is also available for employees who accompany their family 

members who are receiving any dose of a COVID-19 vaccination. A “family member” is 

an individual who meets the definition of that term in OPM’s leave regulations. 5 CFR 

630.20129. 

The administrative leave will cover the time it takes to travel to the vaccination site, 

receive the vaccination dose, and return to work, so only the needed amount of leave 

should be granted. Employees should obtain advance approval from their supervisor 

before using administrative leave for COVID-19 vaccination purposes. 

Furthermore, employees are eligible to receive two days administrative leave if they are 

recovering from an adverse reaction to a COVID-19 vaccination dose that prevents the 

employee from working. 

C. Physical Distancing

FMSHRC will follow OMB direction and CDC guidance on physical distancing, which 

are intended to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. Until physical distancing 

requirements are removed for all individuals, FMSHRC will continue to implement 

workplace practices that facilitate physical distancing. 

When community levels are HIGH, fully vaccinated individuals are required to maintain 

six feet physical distance from others when working at an agency facility. Individuals will 

not be required to physically distance when community levels are MEDIUM or LOW. 

However, to be respectful of others, individuals may choose to practice physical 

distancing. 

Physical distancing is always required for all individuals who are considered 

unvaccinated. To the extent practicable, unvaccinated individuals will maintain a distance 

28 See Z:\COVID-19 Workplace Safety Forms 29 See https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-5/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-630/subpart-B/section-630.201
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of at least six feet from others, consistent with CDC guidelines, including in offices, 

conference rooms, and all other communal and workspaces. Reconfiguration of 

workspaces or office assignments, and other mitigation strategies should be implemented 

to minimize in-person interactions.

When physical distancing is required, virtual meetings must be employed wherever 

possible. Should a face-to-face meeting need to take place during this time, adjustments 

to conference spaces should be made in orderto adhere to the posted occupancy limit or 

remain below 25% maximum capacity. These adjustments can be dependent on the 

length of the meeting and environmental factors, local public health orders that limit the 

size of gatherings, and other relevant considerations, whichever are lower.

Occupancy limits for common areas such as conference rooms, hearing rooms, and 

breakrooms, are posted at the entrances to each space. These limits were recommended 

by the industrial hygienist to allow for appropriate physicaldistancing in the spaces. 

These limits will always apply, so long as community levels do not require further 

occupancy restrictions. 

All office workspaces must conform with physical distancing guidelines and occupancy 

limits set forth here. Supervisors and managers are encouraged to work with employees 

to arrange for staggered work times, cohort-based scheduling, and other tools to facilitate

appropriate distancing. 

When proper physical distancing is impossible, alternate methods of mitigation should be 

considered. Physical barriers such as plexiglass shields may be installed where 

appropriate (e.g., fixed locations such as hearing rooms, conference rooms, etc.). To

recommend any such installation, please contact reentry@fmshrc.org.

D. Screening Testing 

Screening tests are intended to identify infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes 

COVID-19, in unvaccinated people who are asymptomatic and do not have known, 

suspected, or reported exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Testing Strategies for SARS-CoV-2, 

CDC, May 5, 202230. 

In accordance with the guidance issued by the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force on 

January 27, 2022, federal agencies are required to establish a testing program for 

employees and contractors who are considered unvaccinated and coming onsite to a 

FMSHRC facility. This designation includes individuals who have disclosed they are not 

fully vaccinated or declined to provide information on their vaccination status. 

When community levels are MEDIUM or HIGH, unvaccinated employees and full-time 

contractors must be tested at least once during any week that the employee intends to be 

onsite, prior to the employee’s first arrival of the week. When the community levels are 

LOW, unvaccinated employees and full-time contractors will not need to be tested. 

Intermittent contractors do not participate in the agency’s testing program. 

Should an area’s COVID-19 Community Level move from HIGH or MEDIUM to LOW, 

then screening testing will not be required. Meaning that unvaccinated employees or 

30 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/lab/resources/sars-cov2-testing-strategies.html 
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contractors will not be required to take a test that week to go into the workplace. If the 

area then moves back up to a MEDIUM or HIGH community level the following week 

(or in any subsequent week), the employee or contractor will then need to take a test prior 

to coming into the workplace for that first week and reestablish a weekly testing schedule 

as long as the area remains in a MEDIUM or HIGH community level.

FMSHRC will be monitoring the COVID-19 Community Level weekly as reported by 

the CDC and implementing screening testing and other safety protocols based on this 

weekly review. Also, further details on the program, such as permissible tests and 

reimbursements, can be found in the COVID-19 Screening Test Policy. 

E. Diagnostic Testing 

Diagnostic testing is intended to identify current infection in individuals and should be 

performed on anyone who has signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and/or 

following recent known or suspected exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Testing Strategies for 

SARS-CoV-2, CDC, May 5, 202231. If Federal employees, contractors, or visitors have 

symptoms consistent with COVID-19, they should not enter a Federal workplace.

Guidelines on quarantine, isolation, and official travel require diagnostic testing for 

Federal employees and full-time contractors who develop symptoms or who have come 

in close contact with someone with COVID-19. The requirements differ for those 

individuals who are up to date on their vaccinations, those who had confirmed COVID19 within the last 90 days, and those who are not up to date with vaccines. Quarantine 

guidelines require individuals who have come in close contact and have not had 

confirmed COVID-19 within the last 90 days, regardless of vaccination status, must 

receive a diagnostic test five days after the close contact (date of exposure is considered 

day 0) (See Section 7-H). 

Isolation guidance requires all individuals who develop symptoms to receive a diagnostic 

test five days after the onset of symptoms (the day the symptoms started is considered day 

0). They must also be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication

and their other symptoms must improve before taking a test. If any individual’s test result is 

positive, the individual must continue to isolate for an additional five days and take another 

test on Day 10 (See Section 7-I). 

Similarly, testing requirements apply for official travel if an employee has had a known 

close contact with someone with COVID-19, developed symptoms, or has probable or 

confirmed COVID-19 before or during official travel, including return travel. Generally, 

individuals must receive a diagnostic test five days after the close contact (date of exposure 

is considered day 0) or onset of symptoms (the day the symptoms started is considered day 

0) (See Section 5-F). The CDC also recommends being tested for current infection with a 

viral test as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than three days) before 

travel. 

Federal employees and full-time contractors who have been exposed to persons with 

COVID-19 at work or during official travel can be reimbursed for diagnostic testing

through the agency’s COVID-19 Testing Policy. The agency is not responsible for 

31 See Id. 
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providing diagnostic testing due to potential exposure that is not work-related.

F. Contact Tracing

The FMSHRC Team will collaborate with and support the contact tracing programs of 

local health departments to help identify, track, and manage contacts of COVID-19 

cases. The FMSHRC Team will coordinate with building management for the agency’s 

GSA-leased spaces to implement infection control and workplace safety efforts once 

informed of a case of COVID-19 (either due to specific symptoms or a positive test).

The FMSHRC Team, in coordination with building management for the agency’s 

GSA-leased spaces, will make disclosures to local public health officials as required or 

necessary to provide for the public health and safety of Federal employees and 

contractors, in accordance with local public health mandates.

If three COVID-19 cases occur within a specific building or work setting, the 

FMSHRC Team, or a satellite designee, will determine – in consultation with local 

public health officials – appropriate next steps. FMSHRC, in coordination with 

building management for the agency’s GSA-leased spaces, is transparent in

communicating related information to the workforce, as relevant and appropriate, 

consistent with local and federal privacy and confidentiality regulations and laws.

G. Exposure Notification

If the FMSHRC Team discovers or is notified that a person who has been present in the 

workplace has tested positive for COVID-19 or has been diagnosed as having symptoms 

consistent with COVID-19, the agency will attempt to inform employees and contractors 

who were also present in the workplace and in close contact with that person of any

potential exposure. CDC guidance32 defines close contact as being within six feet of 

someone who has probable or confirmed COVID-19 for a cumulative total of 15 minutes

or more over a 24-hour period (See Appendix D). 

Following any notification that a person who has been present in agency office space has

tested positive for COVID-19 or has been diagnosed with symptoms consistent with 

COVID-19, the FMSHRC Team will have the office space cleaned and disinfected.

Employee confidentiality will be always maintained in accordance with Equal 

Employment Opportunity Commission guidance33. This means that FMSHRC

management will not share the name of the person who has tested positive for the 

coronavirus or has been diagnosed as having symptom consistent with COVID-19. 

H. Quarantine

Federal employees, onsite contractors, and visitors must follow the CDC guidelines34 on 

quarantine if they have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. CDC 

defines close contact as being within six feet of someone who has probable or confirmed 

COVID-19 for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period (See 

Appendix D and E). Quarantine keeps individuals who have had close contact with 

32 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/contact-tracing/contact-tracing-plan/contact-tracing.html 33 See https://www.eeoc.gov/wysk/what-you-should-know-about-covid-19-and-ada-rehabilitation-act-and-other-eeo-laws 34 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/contact-tracing/contact-tracing-plan/contact-tracing.html 
Page 22 of 33

someone diagnosed with COVID-19 away from others. Quarantine guidelines differ for 

those individuals who are up to date on their vaccinations, those who had confirmed 

COVID-19 within the last 90 days, and those who are not up to date with vaccines.

Federal employees and full-time contractors who are up to date on their vaccinations or 

had confirmed COVID-19 within the last 90 days, will not need to quarantine. However, 

they must take precautions for 10 full days from the date they last had close contact with 

someone with COVID-19 when working onsite at an agency workplace or interacting 

with members of the public in person as part of their official responsibilities. This 

includes wearing a well-fitting mask when around others, avoiding eating and drinking 

around others, avoiding environments such as dining facilities and gyms where they may 

be unmasked around others, avoiding travel, avoiding people who are 

immunocompromised or at high risk for severe disease, and avoiding nursing homes and 

other high-risk settings.

Those individuals who are up to date on their vaccinations but have not had confirmed 

COVID-19 within the last 90 days, must receive a diagnostic test at least five full days 

after they last had close contact with someone with COVID-19. 

Federal employees and full-time contractors who are not up to date on their vaccinations 

will need to quarantine for at least five days (date of exposure is considered day 0). 

During that time, they should not enter a FMSHRC office, other facilities, such as a 

hearing or court rooms, or interact with members of the public in person as part of their 

official responsibilities. They must also watch for COVID-19 symptoms and receive a 

diagnostic test at least five full days after the close contact. Individuals can return to their 

workplace or begin interacting with the public as part of their official responsibilities, if

no symptoms develop, the test result is negative, they self-certify that they have 

completed all conditions of the CDC recommended quarantine and have received the 

approval of their supervisor. For an additional five days, they should wear a well-fitting 

mask, avoid eating and drinking around others, avoid environments such as dining 

facilities and gyms where they may be unmasked around others, avoid travel, avoid 

people who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe disease, and avoid nursing 

homes and other high-risk settings.

If any individual, regardless of vaccination status, is unable to wear a mask, then they 

must not enter a Federal facility or interact with members of the public in person as part 

of their official responsibilities for 10 days. Also, if COVID-19 symptoms develop or the 

individual receives a positive test result, then they must follow CDC guidelines on 

isolation (See Section 7-I).

Following any work-related close contact or suspected close contact with an infected

person, FMSHRC will reimburse an employee or full-time contractor for the reasonable

cost of an FDA-approved diagnostic test that detects current infection and produces a

dated result. 
Page 23 of 33

I. Isolation 

Federal employees, onsite contractors, and visitors must follow the CDC guidance on 

isolation if they have probable or confirmed COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status.

This includes people who have symptoms and may be awaiting test results, and people with 

a positive viral test, even if they are asymptomatic.

Such individuals must not enter a FMSHRC office, other facilities, such as hearing or 

court rooms, or interact with members of the public in person as part of their official 

responsibilities. Also, individuals who develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19 

during the workday must immediately isolate, wear a mask, notify their supervisor (but 

not by in person contact), and promptly leave the workplace. It is also recommended that 

the individual receive a diagnostic test as soon as possible after symptoms develop (See

Section 7-E).

Isolation is intended to keep individuals who have symptoms or have tested positive for 

COVID-19 without symptoms away from others, even in their own home and may last a 

minimum of five days (See Appendix E). The CDC developed an online tool35 to help 

individuals determine how long they need to isolate or take other steps to prevent 

spreading COVID-19. 

Generally, Federal employees and full-time contractors who had symptoms can end their 

isolation five full days after the onset of symptoms (the day the symptoms started is 

considered day 0) if they are fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing 

medication, their other symptoms have improved, and they have received a negative 

result on a diagnostic test on Day 5. If their test result is positive, they must continue to 

isolate for an additional five days and take another test on Day 10. 

Those who tested positive for COVID-19 and never developed symptoms can end 

isolation after five full days after their positive COVID-19 test (the day of the positive 

test is considered day 0) and after receiving a negative result on a diagnostic test on Day 

5. However, if they develop symptoms at any point, they should start a five-day isolation 

period over, with day 0 being their first day of symptoms. 

After the required days have passed, Federal employees and full-time contractors can 

return to their workplace once they self-certify that they have completed all conditions of 

the CDC recommended isolation and have received approval of their supervisor. 

However, they should continue to wear a mask around others for an additional five days 

when working onsite at an agency workplace or interacting with members of the public in 

person as part of their official responsibilities. They should also avoid eating and drinking 

around others, environments such as dining facilities and gyms where they may be 

unmasked around others, travel, people who are immunocompromised or at high risk for 

severe disease, and nursing homes and other high-risk settings.

Federal employees and full-time contractors who experienced severe illness, including 

those who were hospitalized or required intensive care or ventilation support, and those 

with compromised immune systems need to isolate for at least 10 days. They should 

consult with their healthcare provider as well.

35 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html
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J. General Safety Precautions and Hygiene 

The CDC has established guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other 

respiratory diseases. To the extent possible, employees should follow these guidelines to 

protect themselves from exposure both outside the workplace and whenever they are

present in the workplace. 

1. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms36 described by the CDC, do 

not report to work. Seek medical attention. Stay home if you are feeling sick. 

2. If you have traveled or are contemplating travel, please see the CDC Travel

guidance37. 

3. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or mask, or use the inside of your elbow, 

and then throw the tissue away in the trash and immediately wash your hands, and 

avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. 

4. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially if 

you have been in a public space, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or 

sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that

contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them 

together until they feel dry. For information about handwashing, see the CDC’s

When and How to Wash Your Hands38. 

5. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces using agency provided cleaning 

supplies when necessary. Hand sanitizer stations will be available at the building 

entrances and throughout workspaces. FMSHRC will ensure that adequate supplies 

are provided or installed at headquarters and in the satellite offices.

6. Practice physical distancing: limit face-to-face meetings, in-person events and 

interaction with large crowds. Put distance between yourself and others – stay at least 

six feet apart from colleagues.

7. Wear a facemask that covers your nose and mouth and meets CDC guidelines39 in

public settings where other physical distancing measures are impossible or difficult to

maintain.

8. Continue to conduct meetings, gatherings, and training sessions online, using Zoom 

or Teams, or telephonically as much as possible. 

9. Limit the number of personnel present in common areas to make physical distancing

feasible. For instance, no more than two people should be present in the kitchen or 

break areas at one time.

36 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html 37 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html 38 See https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html 39 See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html
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APPENDIX A: CDC Community Level Protocols 

FMSHRC Protocols based on COVID-19 Community Levels

When the COVID-19 

Community Level is 

LOW in the county where 

the Federal facility is 

located. 

• Mask Wearing: Individuals are not required to wear masks in an agency 

facility, regardless of vaccination status. 

• Vaccination Attestation: Visitors and contractors do not need to complete 

the Certification of Vaccination Form. 

• Screening: Visitors do not need to complete the COVID-19 Symptom 

Screening Form. 

• Physical Distancing: Vaccinated individuals do not need to practice 

physical distancing. 

• Testing: Unvaccinated employees and full-time contractors do not need to 

utilize the agency’s screening testing program. 

• Events: In-person gatherings are not restricted. 

When the COVID-19 

Community Level is 

MEDIUM in the county 

where the Federal facility 

is located. 

• Mask Wearing: Individuals are not required to wear masks in an agency 

facility, regardless of vaccination status. 

• Vaccination Attestation: Visitors and contractors will need to complete the 

Certification of Vaccination Form (excluding individuals seeking a public 

service). 

• Screening: Visitors and individuals seeking a public service will need to 

complete the COVID-19 Symptom Screening Form. 

• Physical Distancing: Vaccinated individuals do not need to practice 

physical distancing. 

• Testing: Unvaccinated employees and full-time contractors will need to 

utilize the agency’s screening testing program. 

• Events: In-person gatherings are not restricted. 

When the COVID-19 

Community Level is 

HIGH in the county 

where the Federal facility 

is located. 

• Mask Wearing: Individuals are required to wear masks in an agency 

facility, regardless of vaccination status and consistent with CDC and Task 

Force guidance on mask-wearing. 

• Vaccination Attestation: Visitors and contractors will need to complete the 

Certification of Vaccination Form (excluding individuals seeking a public 

service).

• Screening: Visitors and individuals seeking a public service will need to 

complete the COVID-19 Symptom Screening Form. 

• Physical Distancing: Vaccinated individuals will need to practice physical 

distancing and occupancy limits for agency facilities will be 25%. 

• Testing: Unvaccinated employees and full-time contractors will need to 

utilize the agency’s screening testing program. 

• Events: In person gatherings are discouraged, and meetings should be held 

over tele- or videoconference. Also, events with more than 50 attendees 

must be approved by agency head or official with delegated authority. 
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APPENDIX B: Certification of Vaccination Form (Sample)
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APPENDIX C: FMSHRC COVID-19 Screening Tool (Sample)
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APPENDIX D: CDC Close Contact Infographic
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APPENDIX E: CDC Isolation & Quarantine Infographic
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