Inspection Report: DOE-OIG-22-04

November 8, 2021

Allegations Related to the Y-12 National Security Complex Fire Department

In November 2019, the Office of Inspector General Hotline received a complaint regarding the Y-12 National Security Complex Fire Department (Fire Department).  Specifically, the complainant’s allegations included a hostile work environment at the Fire Department, including retaliation for filing grievances or complaints, inconsistent application of disciplinary actions, inadequate security of the Fire Department Alarm Room, insufficient structure-related training, and a lack of independent response to complaints filed through Ethics and Employee Concerns.  We initiated this inspection to determine the facts and circumstances regarding the allegations related to the Fire Department.  We were unable to identify documentary evidence to substantiate that Fire Department management created a hostile work environment or fostered a fear of retaliation.  However, we substantiated the allegation that disciplinary actions and drug and alcohol testing in response to motor vehicle accidents were inconsistent.  Finally, we did not substantiate the allegations related to beryllium training, security of the Fire Department Alarm Room, structure-related training, escorting procedures in the Fire Department Alarm Room, Ethics and Employee Concerns complaint processing, and confidentiality of medical information.  The issue we identified occurred, in part, due to a lack of contractor policies and procedures requiring testing after an accident, as well as conflicting policies on who was responsible for making a determination on required testing.  Moreover, disciplinary action was not issued because the investigation report was not provided to either Labor Relations or the Fire Department.  Management agreed with our findings and recommendations, and its proposed corrective actions are consistent with our recommendations.