What must be included in a stop-work order?

A stop-work order is a directive issued by a contracting officer to suspend work on a particular contract or task, either temporarily or indefinitely. It is an important tool in managing contracts and ensuring compliance with regulations and procedures.

Including instructions for suspending work and further orders is essential because it provides clear guidance on how the contractor should halt operations. This helps to minimize confusion, reduces the risk of unnecessary costs, and sets the stage for a smooth transition back to work when the stop-work order is lifted. Clear communication through these instructions aids in ensuring that all parties understand their responsibilities and the implications of the order, particularly in terms of resource management and contractor obligations.

Other options, while potentially relevant in different contexts, do not focus on the primary purpose of a stop-work order. For example, while a list of personnel affected could be useful, it is not a requisite part of the stop-work order itself. A deadline for resuming work could be beneficial for project planning, but the purpose of a stop-work order is not to fix timelines, especially since conditions might change. A financial summary of the project may provide valuable insight into a project's status but is not required within the stop-work order to communicate its intent effectively.