Policy Statement for Conflict Prevention and Resolution Staff

The Conflict Prevention and Resolution (CPR) program was created as an alternative resource to existing formal grievance and EEO complaint processes to address work-related issues. One of the primary goals of CPR is to provide employees with an impartial, confidential avenue to resolve disputes in order to minimize the escalation of disputes to the formal grievance process.

The CPR Specialists offer FDA employees and managers the following resources:

Mediation – assisted negotiation with a neutral third party
Facilitation – one-on-one or group problem solving, structured dialogue and meeting management to assist groups in achieving desired outcomes
Consultation – assists with managing difficult situations
Training and presentations – provides information and continuing education about conflict resolution strategies and prevention techniques
Early Neutral Evaluations – assesses issues presented and offers recommendations for addressing these issues in an impartial, non-adversarial way

CPR Specialists are trained in all statutory regulations for filing formal grievances (negotiated and administrative), EEO and appeals to the MSPB. All mandated timeframes are strictly adhered to in accordance with the specific statutes. For example, a union grievance must be filed within 30 days of the alleged incident. EEO complaints must be filed within 45 days of the point of incident. Specialists help employees to candidly discuss issues and explore options. They then work to assist the parties to achieve fair and equitable solutions as well as triaging to other available resources. If the employee files an EEO complaint and elects mediation during the pre-complaint stage, management is required to participate in the process. Both management and the employee are entitled to representation during the mediation session. If an employee has not filed a formal grievance/EEO complaint, he/she can request informal ADR assistance (facilitation, counseling, coaching, etc.). A facilitated meeting must take place with the concurrence of both parties, and is intended to informally resolve issues in conflict without moving into a formal arena. Although the facilitated sessions are informal and representation is not typically a part of this process, if any party requests representation, the CPR Specialist will be informed in advance.

If facilitation, mediation, etc. is requested, the unit making the request will be responsible for travel and lodging expenses, if necessary.

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