U.S. Department of Transportation
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
400 Seventh Street, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20590

PHMSA's national missions and the trust we hold from the American public require that we deliver superior performance. We are able to deliver superior results only when employees are free from discrimination. Our actions must be exemplary.

As the PHMSA Administrator, I am fully committed to the principles of equal opportunity in employment for all. We will ensure an environment free from prejudice, harassment or intimidation where every employee is recognized for their value, treated with respect and encouraged to reach their full potential.

PHMSA reaffirms the Department's policy of zero tolerance for unlawful discrimination and harassment. Violations of this policy will be addressed swiftly and effectively.

PHMSA recognizes and supports the rights of all persons to oppose discrimination in the agency and to participate in the EEO complaint process. Retaliation for participation in protected activity will not be tolerated.

I am committed to achieving an inclusive and discrimination-free work environment, in which employment opportunities are open to all qualified candidates. Managers and supervisors must provide effective leadership and support so that all employment actions, programs and activities are administered without considerations of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or reprisal for engaging in protected EEO activity. Individuals at all levels are expected to treat other employees with professionalism, courtesy and respect.

The success of our EEO policy depends on the positive leadership provided by managers and supervisors and on the full cooperation of every employee. I urge you to join me in actively committing to the principles of equal employment opportunity and I look forward to working with each of you to turn equal employment opportunity into one of PHMSA's greatest strengths.

Thomas J. Barrett