COVID Safety Contractors (E.O. 14042)

Summary

Makes companies that have contracts with the federal government follow safety rules for COVID-19 to keep their workers safe and healthy.

What problem does this solve?

The spread of COVID-19 among workers for federal contractors could cause people to miss work, which costs more money and makes the work less efficient. This order requires these companies to follow specific COVID-19 safety rules, which will help stop the spread of the virus and keep work running smoothly.

What does this order do?

Mandates safety clause in federal contracts

Requires that new government contracts include a rule that the company and its subcontractors must follow all COVID-19 safety guidance from the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force.

Establishes task force guidance

Gives the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force the job of creating and publishing the specific safety rules, definitions, and any exceptions for contractors.

Defines which contracts are covered

Applies the rules to new contracts, renewals, and extensions for services, construction, and concessions. It does not apply to grants or very small contracts.

Lists specific exemptions

Excludes certain agreements from this order, such as grants, contracts with Indian Tribes, contracts valued below a certain amount, and work performed outside the United States.

Requires OMB approval for guidance

States that the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) must first approve the Task Force's guidance. The Director must agree that the rules will make federal contracting more efficient and save money.

Who does this affect?

Federal contractors and their employees
Federal government agencies
Subcontractors working on federal projects

What is the real world impact?

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Improves government efficiency

Aims to make government work more efficient and save money by preventing worker absences. When contractor employees are healthy, they are less likely to miss work, which helps projects stay on schedule and on budget.

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Promotes public health

Uses the government's power as a major buyer of services to encourage wider adoption of COVID-19 safety measures, like vaccinations. This can help reduce the spread of the virus in the broader community, not just in federal workplaces.

When does this start?

This order has several deadlines for different government agencies and takes full effect for new contracts starting on October 15, 2021.

Task Force guidance deadline

By September 24, 2021, the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force must provide definitions, safety rules, and any exceptions for contractors.

Rule implementation deadline

By October 8, 2021, the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council must start the process of adding the new safety clause to the official government contracting rules.

Effective date for new contracts

Starting on October 15, 2021, all new contracts, contract renewals, or extensions must include the COVID-19 safety clause.