DAFI51-1201 governs the Department of the Air Force Negotiation and Dispute Resolution Program and workplace ADR practices.
View DAFI51-1201 on armypubs.army.mil
DAFI51-1201 addresses mediator standards, confidentiality, dispute screening, ADR plans, settlement, performance measurement, and complaints. It requires written ADR agreements, appropriate case determinations, data reporting, and records maintenance.
Applies to: This instruction applies to Department of the Air Force civilian employees and uniformed members of the United States Space Force, the Regular Air Force, the Air Force Reserve, and the Air National Guard on federal active duty status under Title 10, U.S. Code.
A neutral shall maintain the confidentiality of all information obtained during the ADR proceeding, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties or disclosure is required by applicable law or policy, including the confidentiality provisions of 5 U.S.C. § 574 of the Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996, 5 U.S.C. § 571 et seq. (October 19, 1996)(ADRA). (paragraph 5)
A neutral shall withdraw from and terminate an ADR proceeding that is being used to contravene DAF or DoD directives or to further criminal conduct. (paragraph 5)
For purposes of this instruction, a workplace dispute is any formal or informal claim or issue in controversy that arises out of an existing or prospective employment relationship between the DAF and its civilian employees, applicants for employment, or military members, or which otherwise materially affects conditions of employment, for which a remedial process is authorized by law, regulation, or policy. (paragraph 4)
All eligible workplace disputes are presumed to be appropriate for ADR, though some eligible workplace disputes may not be appropriate for ADR. (paragraph 5)
ADR proceedings should be convened as soon as practicable after the parties agree to use ADR, normally within 5 calendar days, but no later than 45 calendar days after agreement to use ADR, unless the parties consent in writing to extend this period. (paragraph 8)