6F00 Approach to Investigating Complaint Allegations

In conducting a complaint investigation, the Investigator is a neutral fact finder. A complaint is essentially a statement of allegations of discrimination or other violations. The Investigator conducts an investigation to determine if there is sufficient pertinent evidence to support that a violation occurred or not, in light of the allegations in the complaint. In preparing for and conducting the investigation, the Investigator must exercise objectivity and thoroughness. The Investigator must conduct each investigation in an atmosphere of open mindedness and fairness to both parties. The Investigator should display professional conduct at all times.

a. Relationship to Compliance Evaluations. The Investigator may complete a complaint investigation with or without a compliance evaluation. If, upon evaluating the complaint allegations, or at any time during the investigation of the complaint, the Investigator obtains information that class, systemic or other issues may be more appropriately addressed by conducting a compliance evaluation, the Investigator should discuss this issue with their supervisor, and obtain national office review and approval prior to expanding the investigation into a compliance evaluation.

b. Investigative Priority. The Investigator should act expeditiously on any complaint that alleges immediate and irreparable harm. For example, a complaint alleging the threat of termination in retaliation for filing a complaint with OFCCP (or for assisting in an OFCCP compliance evaluation, complaint investigation or enforcement action) requires immediate action.