Contact the DOL’s Scientific Integrity Council

DOL will attempt to resolve each allegation of loss of scientific integrity covered by the DOL Scientific Integrity Policy in a timely manner. An allegation that has been previously adjudicated and exhausted all administrative remedies will not be reopened unless substantial new information is submitted, as determined by DOL’s Scientific Integrity Official in consultation with DOL’s Chief Science Officer. Allegations regarding subjects excepted under Section G of the Scientific Integrity Policy will not be considered.

Interested persons are encouraged to contact DOL’s Scientific Integrity Official to discuss concerns about loss of scientific integrity prior to submitting a formal allegation. This pre-allegation consultation is optional, but recommended, and will be confidential. Such consultations will not result in the initiation of an assessment or investigation unless a formal allegation is filed. DOL staff may also wish to consult with their agency representative on DOL’s Scientific Integrity Council.

If you believe you have an allegation of loss of scientific integrity at DOL that meets the above criteria, you may submit your allegation to DOL’s Scientific Integrity Official at Scientific.Integrity@dol.gov. An allegation must contain all of the following information, if applicable, before a complaint is evaluated:

1. The name and affiliation of the person, group, or organization submitting the allegation (if not submitted anonymously); 
2. The name of the person, group, or DOL entity alleged to have committed the misconduct;
3. A statement of facts (e.g., dates, locations, actions) that support the allegation, including when and how the Complainant first learned the facts;
4. A list of documents and other evidence supporting the allegation, if available;
5. A list of witnesses who may corroborate the allegation, if available;
6. An explanation of how the allegation, if true, would constitute a loss of scientific integrity according to the DOL Scientific Integrity Policy, including a specific explanation of how the criteria for loss of scientific integrity under the DOL Scientific Integrity Policy are met (e.g., citations or other information identifying the accepted practices of the relevant scientific community);
7. An explanation of any conflict of interest the Complainant has with the Respondent or subject of the allegation; and 
8. A statement indicating whether the allegation is being considered or has been submitted elsewhere, such as another DOL office, different complaint process, Office of Special Counsel, Office of the Inspector General, or other jurisdiction, including a court of law. Complainants should request guidance from any office or agency they think may be relevant to their allegation.