News

New DOD climate survey includes SAPR awareness

  • Published
  • By Jake Chappelle
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD FIELD, Wash. --  Along with the other service branches and their Reserve components, including the Coast Guard, the Air Force Reserve abandoned the Unit Climate Assessment survey and moved to the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute's Organizational Climate Survey - also known as DEOCS 4.0.

The new survey was developed in result of a Secretary of Defense mandate to strengthen unit sexual assault prevention programs, and the Fiscal Year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act directive to administer climate assessments.

In addition to addressing perceptions of organizational effectiveness, equal opportunity, equal employment opportunity, fair treatment, and sexual assault prevention and response areas, DEOCS 4.0 includes favoritism, diversity management, organizational processes, intention to stay, help-seeking behaviors, exhaustion or burnout, demeaning behaviors, and hazing.

Released in January, the DEOCS 4.0 upgrade allows commanders to measure key climate issues that could strengthen their organizations' effectiveness, or put their productivity at risk, according to DEOMI officials.

"I believe this survey will allow respondents a better opportunity to voice their concerns than our previous model," said Master Sgt. James Briggs, 446th Airlift Wing Military Equal Opportunity Office superintendent. "Airmen should be specific in addressing concerns, and sharing solutions in addition to stating their opinions."

The SAPR area covers Airmen's knowledge about leadership support for SAPR, reporting options and reporting barriers, and bystander intervention of sexual assault.

Another change requires commanders to initiate an assessment within 120 days after assuming command, and every year thereafter while maintaining command, DEOMI officials said. This ensures commanders are current with their Airmen's views of how their leaders react to sexual assault and harassment occurrences within their units.

"It's important to note, this is a voluntary survey designed to assess the 'shared perceptions' of respondents about formal or informal policies and practices," Briggs said.

DEOCS 4.0 takes about 30 to 40 minutes to finish, and contains up to 115 questions.

Survey participant anonymity is safeguarded by employing an untraceable, computer-generated password, and personally identifying information isn't stored or collected. Common Access Cards aren't required to take the survey.

"I ask each member take the time to thoughtfully answer the questions," Briggs said. "These responses will help address perceptions at all levels to shape a better force now and in the future. It's your Air Force. It's your voice - speak up."

The 446th AW MEO Office is the focal point for wing climate assessments.