For how long must the EOA maintain the file on closed EO complaints?

The correct answer regarding the duration for which the Equal Opportunity Advisor (EOA) must maintain the file on closed Equal Opportunity (EO) complaints is two years. This timeframe is established to ensure a balance between retaining important documentation that may be necessary for future reference or audits, while also not keeping records indefinitely, which could lead to unnecessary storage of outdated information.

Maintaining these files for two years allows for adequate time to review past complaints if related issues arise, facilitates the identification of patterns in complaints, and supports ongoing training and education efforts in the organization. The two-year requirement also aligns with best practices outlined in military and federal guidelines for managing EO records, reinforcing accountability while ensuring that the integrity of the complaint process is upheld.