January 2015

A Basic Overview of the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program

This pamphlet is developed by the Department of Energy (DOE) as an outreach and awareness tool to assist former and current DOE Federal, contractor, and subcontractor employees to become familiar with and utilize the services and benefits authorized under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOIPCA).

There are several Federal entities that support implementation of EEOICPA.  Each of these entities serves a critical and unique role in this process.  Briefly, the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) is responsible for adjudicating and administering claims filed by current employees, former employees, or certain qualified survivors.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Advisory Board on Radiation and Worker Health (Advisory Board) are responsible for conducting occupational radiation dose reconstructions for certain claims filed under EEOICPA.  NIOSH and the Advisory Board are also responsible for conducting research and evaluating Special Exposure Cohort (SEC) petitions. 

DOE’s role is to work on behalf of the program claimants to ensure that all available worker and facility records and data are provided to DOL, NIOSH, and/or the Department of Justice (DOJ) upon request.  These records serve as the basis for DOL and NIOSH to make informed decisions.  DOE views this important function as a moral commitment to thousands of its workers who have dedicated their lives to maintaining the national security and advancing our country in the areas of science and technology.

DOE’s support of EEOICPA is overseen by the Office of Health, Safety and Security (HSS).  The Former Worker Medical Screening Program (FWP) and EEOICPA are two of the most important programs within the Department and have the unwavering commitment and support of DOE’s senior leadership, both at DOE Headquarters and at DOE Program Offices and Field Sites.