QA 122723.docx

Questions and Answers 12/27/23

General:

• Can you clarify the expected volume and frequency of hazardous waste pick-ups at each facility type (small, intermittent LQG, etc.)?

The expected volume of each order is unknown, though most likely small. Frequency is as needed and cannot be predicted.

• Have you conducted any initial assessments of the types and quantities of non-hazardous waste requiring disposal?

The types of waste anticipated are listed on the sources sought questionnaire. Quantities are unknown and will vary order to order.

• Is there a target timeline for releasing the actual solicitation (RFP)?

Not at this time.

• Are there any environmental permits or specific regulations that contractors need to be aware of for each region?

It is the responsibility of each contractor, and their subcontractors as applicable, to be familiar with and adhere to all regulations and maintain any permits for the areas in which they provide service.

• What are the preferred disposal methods for different types of hazardous waste?

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates all hazardous waste disposal. Contractors are responsible for being familiar with these regulations.

• Is there a budget allocated for transportation and disposal costs, or will this be negotiated with individual contractors?

Per Question 11 of the Sources Sought Notice, we are looking at firm fixed price contracts (set rates for type and quantity of waste, transportation, and disposal). If you are aware of variable costs that could not be predicted enough to set a per unit rate for more than a few months at a time, please include details on those costs in your response to Q11.

Specific to Intermittent LQG:

• Can you share more details about the specific hazardous waste types generated at the Pocatello facility (beyond poisons)?

We are looking to gather information on what contractors can offer in regards to which types and amounts of waste can be removed and from what geographic areas. We are not soliciting for specific waste types or locations.

• What are the current safety procedures and storage capacities for hazardous waste at this facility?

Safety procedures follow EPA guidelines. Storage capacities differ per type of waste.

• Is there a dedicated point of contact or trained personnel at the Pocatello facility for managing waste pick-ups?

Facility contacts will be provided at the time of each order. An individual contractor will likely not be awarded each order from a specific facility, as each order will be competed between contract holders who service the location and waste type needed for the specific order.

Operational:

• Are there any specific security protocols or access restrictions to consider for pick-up at remote locations (Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico)?

Information on specific facility security requirements will be provided with each order as necessary. The contract as established with each entity will contain general information for conduct on Federal property.

• Can you clarify all of the locations that the hazardous waste pick-ups will be done apart from the manufacturing facility in Pocatello, ID?

All locations where APHIS and/or AMS operate within the designated geographical areas.

• Will additional training or certifications be required for subcontractors who may handle this project?

All subcontractors must have the applicable training, certifications, permits, etc. in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations for each type of waste they will be handling.

• Does the government have any preferred waste disposal facilities or preferred disposal methods for certain waste types?

Question 9 requests information on all disposal facilities that each contractor and their subcontractors use and for which waste types. Disposal methods should adhere to the applicable EPA regulations.

Additional Information:

• Is there any relevant historical data or past performance information about hazardous waste disposal at USDA facilities?

All publicly available information on the previous BPAs can be found at fpds.gov by searching 12639519A0044, 12639519A0045, and/or 12639519A0046.

• Are there any existing internal documents or policies related to hazardous waste management that vendors should be aware of?

No.

• Is there a dedicated point of contact for questions or clarifications throughout the market research and solicitation process?

See Sources Sought Notice on SAM.gov for the two POCs.