Yes, NGA (National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency) employees are covered by the federal workers' compensation system, which provides medical care and wage replacement for work‑related injuries or illnesses. Coverage is administered through the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA).
More from this site
Keep reading the latest coverage
How Federal Workers' Compensation Applies to NGA
All civilian employees of the NGA, including full‑time, part‑time, and temporary staff, fall under FECA. The agency's status as a federal employer means state workers' comp laws do not apply; instead, the OWCP handles claims.
Eligibility and Claim Process
To be eligible, an injury or illness must arise out of and in the scope of official duties. Employees report incidents to their supervisor, complete the OWCP claim form (SF‑199), and submit supporting medical documentation. The OWCP reviews the claim, determines compensability, and issues benefits.
Benefits Provided
Compensable claims can include:
- Medical treatment and prescription drugs
- Temporary total disability (TTD) wages at two‑thirds of the employee's salary
- Permanent partial or total disability (PPD/PTD) payments based on a rating schedule
- Vocational rehabilitation and retraining
- Survivor benefits for dependents if death occurs
Common Questions
What if the injury occurs off‑site? Off‑site injuries are covered if they are work‑related, such as traveling for official business.
Are contractors covered? Independent contractors are not covered by FECA; they must rely on personal insurance or any contract‑specific provisions.
Comparison of Federal vs. State Workers' Compensation
| Aspect | Federal (FECA) | State Systems |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage Scope | All federal civilian employees | Varies by state, typically private sector |
| Benefit Calculation | Two‑thirds salary for TTD | State‑specific wage formulas |
| Administration | OWCP, a federal agency | State workers' comp boards |
Resources for NGA Employees
The OWCP website offers claim forms, FAQs, and contact information. NGA's Human Resources office also provides guidance on filing procedures and can assist with navigating the system.