DA Form 7428: NAF Supervisor Orientation Checklist Guide

DA Form 7428: NAF Supervisor Orientation Checklist Guide – Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) employees play a vital role in supporting U.S. Army Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs, family services, exchanges, and other essential activities on military installations. Effective onboarding ensures these employees understand their roles, benefits, and expectations from day one. DA Form 7428, officially titled the Nonappropriated Fund Supervisor’s Orientation Checklist, is the key document used for this purpose.

What Is DA Form 7428?

DA Form 7428 is a standardized checklist prescribed by AR 215-3 (Nonappropriated Funds Instrumentalities Personnel Policy). Its proponent agency is the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1. The current version dates to January 2002 (with updates referenced as late as 2020 in some fillable formats), and it remains active for use across Army NAF operations.

Primary Purpose: Supervisors use this form to provide a thorough orientation to new NAF employees upon reporting to their duty station. It documents that critical topics have been explained, helping ensure compliance, employee understanding, and a smooth integration into the NAF workforce.

The completed form becomes part of the employee’s permanent Official Personnel Folder (right side) and must typically be returned to the NAF Civilian Personnel Unit (or servicing HRD) within 14 business days.

Who Uses DA Form 7428?

  • NAF Supervisors and Managers: Responsible for conducting the orientation.
  • New NAF Employees: They review, initial, and sign to acknowledge understanding.
  • NAF HR Personnel: For record-keeping and compliance.

It applies to employees in Army NAF positions, which are funded through generated revenue rather than congressional appropriations (unlike most federal civil service positions).

Key Sections and Topics Covered on DA Form 7428

The form features a clear checklist format with space for employee initials. Supervisors must explain each item thoroughly. Here are the main topics (based on the official form content):

  1. Installation Mission, Vision, Goals
  2. Organization Mission, Vision, Goals
  3. Organizational Structure / Chain of Command
  4. Work Schedule Posting
  5. Hours of Duty
  6. Description of Duties
  7. Standards (performance expectations – must be measurable)
  8. Performance Appraisal / Award Policy
  9. Training (OJT and formal)
  10. Reporting On-the-Job Injuries
  11. Safety Rules and Equipment
  12. Break Policy (Lunch, Smoking, Rest)
  13. Leave Policy
  14. Dress Code (if applicable)
  15. Medical and Life Insurance Benefits
  16. Retirement Program
  17. 401(k) Plan
  18. Use of Telephone and Computers
  19. Bulletin Boards
  20. Post Facilities (available to NAF employees)
  21. Property Accountability
  22. Security (On and Off Duty)
  23. Conduct (On and Off Duty)
  24. Presenting Complaints and Grievances
  25. Union Information / Shop Steward (where applicable)
  26. Other (organization-specific requirements)

Instructions on the form emphasize providing copies of relevant documents (e.g., mission statements, position standards) and ensuring the employee fully comprehends NAF employment conditions and benefits.

Why Proper Orientation Matters for NAF Employees?

NAF employment differs from Appropriated Fund (APF) positions in areas like benefits administration, portability, and certain legal statuses. A comprehensive orientation via DA Form 7428 helps:

  • Reduce early turnover.
  • Promote safety and compliance.
  • Clarify performance standards and advancement opportunities.
  • Ensure awareness of benefits like retirement, insurance, and awards programs.
  • Support EEO and other policy goals.

Supervisors are explicitly required by AR 215-3 policy to complete and return this form as part of their responsibilities.

How to Complete DA Form 7428? (Step-by-Step)

  1. Fill in employee name and EOD (Enter on Duty) date.
  2. Review each item with the employee, explaining thoroughly.
  3. Have the employee initial each completed item.
  4. Supervisor and employee sign and date.
  5. Return to NAF HR within the required timeframe (typically 14 business days).

Download the Official DA Form 7428 Here:
Download DA Form 7428 PDF (U.S. Army Publications)

Fillable versions are also available from authorized Army sources. Always use the latest official version from armypubs.army.mil for compliance.

  • DA Form 7427: Nonappropriated Fund Inprocessing and Outprocessing Checklist.
  • DA Form 3434: Notification of Personnel Action – NAF Employee.
  • SF 52 and other standard personnel actions.

Tips for Supervisors

  • Schedule the orientation promptly when the new employee reports.
  • Use the session to build rapport and set clear expectations.
  • Supplement with local policies or installation-specific information in the “Other” section.
  • Keep records accessible for audits or reviews.

For full policy details, refer to the latest AR 215-3 available through official Army channels.

DA Form 7428 is more than administrative paperwork—it is a foundational tool for successful NAF employee onboarding in the U.S. Army. By systematically addressing missions, duties, benefits, safety, and conduct, it helps create informed, engaged team members who contribute effectively to Army MWR and support services.

U.S. Army supervisors and NAF employees: Ensure compliance by using the official form and referencing AR 215-3. Proper use supports mission readiness and employee success across installations worldwide.