This Pandemic and Remote Work Policy ("Policy") is published by VA WORKS, LLC ("Consultant") and forms part of the Governing Policies referenced in the Master Service Agreement ("MSA"), the MSA Terms and Conditions (https://vaworks.com/MasterServiceAgreement), and any applicable Scope of Work Terms and Conditions (https://vaworks.com/SOWSelection). In the event of conflict, priority shall be determined in accordance with the MSA.
1. Purpose and Scope
The purpose of this Policy is to ensure continuity of services and the health and safety of personnel in the event of a pandemic or other widespread public health emergency. This Policy applies to all employees and independent contractors engaged by Consultant and assigned under any MSA or SOW.
2. Continuity of Services
Consultant is committed to maintaining uninterrupted service delivery to Company during a pandemic or declared public health emergency. Contingency plans, including the use of secure remote work infrastructure, backup communication channels, and cross-training of personnel, are in place to reduce the risk of service disruption.
3. Remote Work Environment
During a pandemic or similar event, Consultant may transition some or all personnel to a remote work arrangement. All remote work will be conducted in secure, paperless, and printerless environments, and personnel will access Company systems only through the virtual desktop environments or platforms provided and controlled by Company. Consultant does not own or manage such systems, and Company remains solely responsible for implementing appropriate security and compliance measures.
4. Health and Safety Measures
Consultant complies with applicable public health directives and workplace safety regulations during a pandemic. Where on-site presence is unavoidable, Consultant will implement health screening, distancing protocols, and protective equipment requirements in line with local and international guidance.
5. Communication and Reporting
Consultant will keep Company reasonably informed of any material changes in operations due to a pandemic or public health emergency. Company may request updates regarding personnel assignments, continuity measures, and service status, and Consultant will provide such updates in a timely manner.
6. Liability Disclaimer
Consultant shall not be responsible or liable for any delay, interruption, or failure in the performance of services arising from government shutdowns, travel restrictions, quarantines, supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, or any other circumstances outside Consultant's reasonable control. Such events shall be treated as Force Majeure under the MSA Terms and Conditions, and Consultant's obligations shall be suspended for the duration of the impact, with services resuming as soon as reasonably practicable.
7. Policy Review
This Policy shall be reviewed following any pandemic or major public health event and at least annually thereafter to ensure its ongoing effectiveness, alignment with best practices, and compliance with the MSA and Governing Policies.